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  • Music Festivals | 5 Tips to Reduce Drug Harm & Stay Safe

    Music Festivals | 5 Tips to Reduce Drug Harm & Stay Safe

     

    ARTICLE OVERVIEW: Drugs and alcohol are part of festivals. This article presents five practical tips to reduce risk of harm, injury, or overdose.

    ESTIMATED READING TIME: Less than 10 minutes.

    Table of Contents:

    Why Do People Abuse Drugs at Festivals?

    The simple answer is simple: to keep the party going.

    In fact, people are looking to experience something apart from the every day. Often, they associate a good time with a sense of euphoria, preferably one that lasts for a long period of time. The body can’t naturally produce this kind of sensation on its own and, therefore, people turn to drugs to give it an extra boost. However, there’s more to it than just that.

    Peer pressure must also be considered. Admittedly, the festival scene has a lot of drug abusers within its culture. Recent studies have shown that the majority of festival attendees aged 18–30 report a history of illicit drug use. In addition to friend groups that normalize drug use, there’s also the pressure of the festival atmosphere itself. Particularly, if everyone around you is taking drugs, then there’s a group mind that makes it easier to join the crowd.

    To top it off, it’s not uncommon for people struggling with addiction to find themselves at these festivals. A common trait of addiction is compulsive behavior which leads individuals to places where a large amount of drugs can be obtained. There are multiple reasons for why a person facing addiction will want to obtain drugs at a festival, but a big one is they can get a hold of large quantities of drugs at one moment and, therefore, have a supply which lasts a long period of time.

    What Drugs Do People Abuse at Festivals?

    When observing drug trends amongst festival goers, the first thing you’ll notice is that most of them are taking or seeking out stimulants. It’s very unlikely someone at a festival will want a downer or central nervous depressant, as the mood of the scene is “up” and full of energy. A list of common stimulant drugs found at music festivals include:

    Adderall. Normally, Adderall is abused by college students looking to cram an entire week’s homework in just one night. However, this amphetamine medication has found popularity within the festival scene as well. When people are high on the drug, it gives them a boost of energy which lasts for a long period of time. This is perfect to keep the party going considering festivals go on for a long period of time and, often, the acts people want to see are one after another.

    Alcohol. When we drink, we tend to be much more relaxed and social due to its disinhibiting effects. It comes to no surprise that people in large, social environments are attracted to this substance. By letting the drink “get them loose”, they feel more likely to participate in festival’s various activities, namely dancing. The unfortunate truth is that festival goers are vulnerable to poisoning, especially when they mix alcohol with other drugs.

    Cocaine, Crack. Generally, people who take cocaine and/or crack will feel an intense euphoria and increased energy. In a festival setting, this might seem ideal considering the fact that music festivals go on for hours upon hours at a time. With that in mind, it can’t be forgotten that these stimulants don’t necessarily last that long in their high. Therefore, as a means of avoiding a crash, users tend to “binge” and take dose after dose in order to stay high.

    Hallucinogens, LSD (acid), Mushrooms, or Research Chemicals. Ever since the 1960s, hallucinogens have been a popular choice for festival goers. The prime reason for this is it changes the way in which the person perceives and witnesses the entire experience. Furthermore, hallucinogens are known for giving those who take them a great amount of energy for a long period of time. This is why psychodellic drugs are billed as an “ideal high” for those who want to stay up all day and night. However, hallucinogens can trigger mental illnesses in people who hadn’t previously experienced mental health complications.

    Marijuana. Unlike the other drugs on this list, marijuana is a central nervous system depressant – though effects vary by individual. Though marijuana isn’t as dangerous as the other drugs we’ve listed, it can onset mental complications and cause extreme anxiety.

    MDMA, Ecstasy, Molly. This is one of the most popular drugs within the festival and club scene and also one of the most dangerous when taken frequently. The thing about MDMA, ecstasy, and Molly are they’re highly stimulating drugs with very euphoric effects. Therefore, young people tend to overlook the bad and further seek out the thrill they bring to a festival atmosphere. Still, not only can these substances cause brain damage over time, but with too much of a dose, people can experience panic attacks or seizures. Dehydration is also a risk when taking these drugs.

    With all this in mind, we’ve laid out some tips for people who want to enjoy the music festival’s have to offer and avoid drugs. The purpose of these tips is not only to educate you on how to stay away from drugs during your time at the festival, but how to keep your body healthily going in order to fully enjoy the festival experience.

    Tip #1 – Know the Landscape

    Furthermore, it’s in your best interest to get oriented with the festival itself. This includes locations of specific areas of interest, such as medical tents or where to find help, if necessary. Know where to find First Aid. Also, check out whether or not the festival offers free drug testing. These services will take samples of drugs and run laboratory checks for substances like
    • Methamphetamine
    • Ketamine
    • Para-methoxyamphetamine (PMA)

    You’ll want to get an idea of the area itself and how to navigate through it. This way, when large crowds begin to form (and they will), you won’t have as much difficulty getting from one point to the next. And you’ll be keen on where to find medical aid if you or a friend needs it.

    Tip #2 – Educate Yourself

    One of the greatest things you can do before considering any psychoactive drug is to inform yourself on how the drug works and its dangers. Evaluate the risks. Be honest with yourself about the effects. What can possibly go wrong? How might you mitigate a “bad trip”, for example? Or, how does the drug interact with other drugs – even pharmaceuticals – that you’re currently taking?

    Much of the time, people who attend music festivals are unaware of the potential side effects of drug use. Often, you might spontanesouly decide to use based on curiosity or even compulsion. Risk taking might also be a part of the decision. By teaching yourself the reality of drug use, you won’t be curious. Instead, you’ll be fully aware of whatever a dealer has to offer and the dangers involved.

    If you’re looking for resources in which to inform yourself about the effects of psychoactive drugs, you can check out the following websites:

    Tip #3 – Drink Water and Lots of It

    A festival is bound to drain your energy – with or without drugs. You can look at going to a festival very similarly to doing a work out. You’re going to be sweating a lot, you’re going to need to push your body beyond its normal functioning, and you’re going naturally drain yourself. Water is a natural source of energy to provide yourself with.

    So, it’s important to stay hydrated. Though not every festival offers it, but some will have water stations. Know where these places are. Or, pack your water in by the gallons.

    It also helps if you plan out how much water you’re going to drink throughout a day. Some drugs impair your thirst reflex. But drinking too much water can increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance or brain swelling. Some drugs like MDMA causes the body to retain water. With this knowledge, coordinate how much water your body receives – which is vital for when you plan to use up a lot of energy.

    Tip #4 – Know When to Relax and Refuel

    The fierce party environment of a festival may propel you in to hyper mode. Festivals are set up in so people can enjoy themselves when they want to. Some people prefer seeing a live show in the afternoon while others do at night. With that in mind, it’s important not to drain yourself to see every act the festival has to offer.

    You’re going to drain yourself regardless. So, with that in mind, avoid trying to keep the party continuously going. If you don’t want stop and let the body’s naturally refuel, you will crash. Not only is this behavior unhealthy, it can lead to terrible consequences, especially if you drive home when the festival is over.

    For example, don’t be afraid to take breaks from dancing. We know you don’t want to step away from the music, but it’s vital you do it every now and again. By giving your body a chance to regenerate, you’re making a huge difference. You’re taking the time to allow your body to gain the energy it needs again to get back into the dancing groove. Additionally, fuel up with healthy food many times a day.

    Tip #5 – Bring a Friend and Stick Close

    By having a friend along for the festival experience, you’re giving yourself the opportunity to stay safe no matter what arises. A friend will not only always be there if things become unsafe, but s/he can support sobriety, if that’s what you’re aiming for. In fact, with someone else by your side who’s also drug-free, you’re less likely to give into peer pressure which spawns drug use.

    There’s always the chance you may accidentally separate from your friend during the festival. If this happens, you can always set up a spot to meet. So, scout out the festival’s environment at the beginning. By having a comprehensive idea of what the layout is, you and your friend can be sure never to get lost and know where to go if things go wrong.

    It’s Okay to Enjoy Yourself Without Drugs

    While at a music festival, you’re going to see a lot of people on drugs. The truth is, you’re also going to see a lot of people enjoying themselves on drugs. You may get the notion that you’re missing out on something. That maybe a hit or two of something isn’t so bad and can really give you the buzz you need to enjoy yourself.

    This is anything but true. You don’t need drugs to enjoy your time at a music festival!

    The consequences can outweigh the fun. Some of the risks include:

    • Cardiac problems
    • Dehydration
    • Dysphoria, or an extreme depression during a crash
    • Extreme fatigue
    • Lack of consciousness
    • Overdose
    • Panic Attacks
    • Risky sexual behavior

    When it comes to music festivals, people don’t often consider the long-term effects of their drug use. Rather, they focus solely on the moment and how much they can enjoy their time within this festival.

    You don’t have to be that person. You can have fun without drugs. You can find the energy to dance along to the music and be happy without taking drugs. You can be in a drug environment and stay drug free.

    This is especially important to people who have struggled with addiction in the part. When it comes to recovery, one of the biggest concerns most have is that of relapse. Relapse can happen at any point in life. Just because you’re in an environment where people use drugs to enjoy themselves doesn’t mean you have to as well. You know what addiction is like and you quit using for specific reasons.

    Stick to that reason, prepare for what’s in front of you, and be sure that you’re in a good place before you consider attending a festival.

    Your Questions

    We hope to have sincerely helped you plan for staying safe during a music festival. However, you might have a pressing question.

    If you have any further questions pertaining to how to stay safe and drug free during a festival, we invite you to ask them in the comments section below. If you have any advice to give to others on this topic, we’d also love to hear from you. We try to get back to each comment in a prompt and personal manner.

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  • Change is Strange: Coping with Change in Addiction Recovery

    Change is Strange: Coping with Change in Addiction Recovery

    What Are “Changes”?

    For the past several months I have been experiencing a lot of change. But what does that mean? I’ve been asking some questions:

    • What do we mean by change?
    • How do we view change?
    • What does change do to us?

    Simply defined, change is, “the act of making or becoming different.”

    Those are small words for such an often series of tumultuous acts. Change can be sudden and unexpected, or it can be thought out and planned. But no matter how much we plan for change, it can throw us in a loop. We can feel lost. Anxiety and fear can take over. In sum, change is strange.

    Change is Strange: A First Hand Account

    Take for instance how I have spent my life’s work working in the behavioral health care field, most notably in the addiction and mental health arena. I’ve spent decades either teaching on the university level or helping others to change. I have worked with thousands of students as well as hundreds of families whose loved ones experience the maladies of abuse. This has included:

    • Chronic pain
    • Disordered eating
    • Disordered shopping
    • Compulsive gambling

    … other process disorders coupled with anxiety and depression. All the while, the name of the game is to motivate, facilitate, inspire them to change their behaviors. The goal is to fool those neuro tags and change the way one responds to life.

    Well, let me tell you first hand, “Change is strange”. I travel for work. Over the last few months, I have worked in London, New York, Fargo, Clovis, Mountainside, Long Beach and Malibu. I have changed some of the work I do from consulting at one place to consulting at a few others. Consulting means you go into a center with essentially clean eyes and knowledge about the subject matter you are asked to look at. As such, one becomes a partial part of something.

    As a consultant, one’s job is well defined. In my case, most of the time it centers around developing curriculum, training and working with others. As such, you must learn all about the entities and perspectives in the workplace. In other words, you must put yourself in their shoes. You must identity with and try to understand all the nuances of a treatment environment, even though you are not present all the time.

    Looking at Attachment

    This is a tightrope walk. I honor the professionals, the work they are doing, and their processes for accomplishing their goals. Nonetheless, in doing so, I find that I become attached to the people, places, and things I encounter.

    When a consulting job ends, there is a little hole inside of me that misses that place, that staff, those people.

    And so, faces and places change. I found this experience to be bittersweet, having learned tons about a new subject matter. Hence, whether it’s abrupt or planned, saying goodbye is difficult. Change is strange!

    Moving to a New Home Shakes Things Up

    Recently, my husband, dogs, and all our things were picked up and moved. The process has shaken up the molecules of knowing where everything is in its rightful place. It’s difficult to know where things are: from where silverware sits to where the best grocery store is to wondering, “Where did I put this or that?”.. to not knowing exactly where to go, what to do, or who to meet.

    My sense of direction, belonging, and trajectory have all been thrown into a clothes dryer and the dial turned up to maximum spin. I don’t know where I’m going to fall when the tumble dry finishes. Indeed, change is strange.

    Many of you know we have relocated to the desert. Mr. Wadas – my husband – as I affectionately call him, is happy as a clam after spending months making a new home. He can walk out onto our back patio and look up at the stars every night, see the harvest moon, and can play golf for a cheap ticket at the best clubs.

    As a former athletic director, moves are a way of life for him. He changed university colors many a time. As an athlete, he learned that there is always another game to play. If you lose one you get up the next day, dust yourself off, learn from the plays, train harder, and go back out. His mantra is:

    “Preparation plus opportunity equals success.”

    He rolls with the punches, another way of dealing with the emotional highs and lows of transition.

    How Being an ACOA Informs My Response to Change

    For me, the adult child of an alcoholic and the daughter of a Loretta Young-type mother who vacationed and moved constantly, change doesn’t settle well in my bones. In addition to this, I’m a woman who experienced many sudden deaths of close family.

    I don’t move.

    In WeHo, my previous residence, I only moved two doors down from our condo to a home. I fell in love with the city, learned, laughed, walked everywhere in the neighborhood feel of WeHo, met so many new people, volunteered at the Sheriff’s station, tripped in disbelief over a growing homeless population, protested the marijuana stores, made friends with the doormen at Sunset Marquis, experienced the vastness of the treatment and recovery industry, hiked up to Soul Cycle every morning, riding alongside artists, designers, celebrities, etc., and felt a strong sense of community. I felt energized, activated and secure with the sounds of La Cienega roaring in the background.

    And then life took some turns and we chose to move.

    I have been coming to the desert for more than 35 years. I know the streets, have a few professional friends here, and can find my way around. Still, I don’t know all the places. There is a flood of new faces. Yet, there is a familiarity in unfamiliarity.

    I Turn to the Tools of Recovery

    What I do have that I embrace are the tools of recovery for any environment in the world. As such, this means that:

    • I try six meetings and try six more.
    • I try six spinning studios and try six more instructors.
    • I use the telephone (I don’t know my landline number even that was switched).
    • I reach out to new and old friends, suiting up and showing up.
    • I trade Melrose Place for Lowes (really!)

    More than anything, it means feeling my feelings.

    I grieve the changes and welcome new beginnings. I shed some tears, write an article about FOMO (the fear of missing out), as I am missing all the L.A. events and its robust treatment community. It means facetiming with grandchildren instead of hugging in person.

    And in the process, I am finding my groove.

    This morning, as I see the desert sky come up… I am grateful. Grateful that I got to learn so much about chronic pain and how to work with families in that arena. I’m grateful for the synergy of the city, for learning about life in the fast lane, for traveling near and far in the pursuit of wellness, for learning from such great folks along the way from Sean Firtel to Brad Lamm, Jonathan Rauch, Jeffrey Merrick, James Flowers to Cole Rucker, Heather Hayes and Eve Ruff, Judith Landau, Denise Klein, Charlene Short Majors, Monica Phillips Priya Chaudri, Ed and Mary Ann Spatola, Dawn Hedgepath.

    There are so many more!

    How to Get Through Periods of Change

    So, now I am here in the desert, being gentle with myself. I realize that I am in the process of becoming. “Be gentle with your soul,” I say to others. Now I am saying that to myself.

    In this new chapter, the tools of recovery are important. Here they are:

    • Empathy
    • Establishing new rituals
    • Exercise
    • Feeling one’s feelings
    • Meetings
    • Nutrition
    • Peer Support
    • Professional consultation
    • Telephone calls

    So, if you are in the midst of doing something different – taking something out of your daily routine or adding something in – please remember it takes 60-90 days to change just one behavior. When you are trying to adjust, adapt, or learn about so many new things… let those neurons fire off and remember you are attaching to new ways of being.

    You will be OK.

    Change is strange! As John West, Co- Owner of The Guest House . hared on Facebook:

    “A shark in a fish tank will grow eight inches but in the ocean it will grow eight feet or more. The shark will never grow out of its environment. The same is true with you. Many times we are around small thinking so we don’t grow. Change your environment and watch yourself grow.”

    How are you growing today?

    How are you addressing change?

    Let me know and I will compile your wisdom and share with everyone.

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  • 7 Common Signs and Symptoms of Teen Drug Use

    7 Common Signs and Symptoms of Teen Drug Use

    Daily Drug Use Signals a Problem

    While there are some surveys that indicate drug abuse among teenagers is decreasing, that does not mean the problem has gone away. It’s still common for teens to experiment with drug use for the purpose of fitting in, escaping from reality, or simply out of curiosity.

    Could your teen be on the way to daily drug use? If you notice one or more of these seven signs of teen drug use in your child, it’s time to have a conversation with him or her and seek treatment if necessary.

    Signs of Teen Drug Use

    1. The Desire for Privacy Increases. 

    All teenagers want some private space and that is completely normal. For this reason, you should remember to knock before entering your teen’s room. However, when the need for privacy becomes extreme, it could be a sign of drug use. There are some distinct ways that this can manifest.

    For example, a teen who is attempting to hide their drug use might not answer openly to questions such as, “When will you be home?” or, “Who is going to the party?” Instead, s/he might become defensive and seek distance. So, when a child who typically responds to these questions openly begins to view them as an invasion of privacy, it is a sign that something may be wrong.

    2. Old Friends Fade Away and New Ones Take Over. 

    Childhood relationships don’t always make it through to adulthood. It’s a normal process if your child sees less of an old friend and begins to spend time with a new one. However, it becomes a concern if the entire crowd is replaced by new people.

    This potential symptom of drug use is even more concerning when your child does not want you to meet those new friends. They might even get angry when you mention an old friend. This is because they understand that you may pick up on signs that those new buddies are involved in something that’s not in their best interest.

    3. Hygiene and Clothing Habits Change. 

    Another sign that your teen is using drugs includes changes in dress or hygiene. For example, your child used to do a good job of taking a shower, brushing after meals, and using deodorant. Lately, that seems to happen a little less each week. At first, it was a shower skipped one night, then it becomes several days in between baths. Things like brushing the hair or even washing the face just aren’t important anymore.

    Teen drug use may manifest through other changes. For instance, even clothing choices may change. Perhaps your child used to take pride in creating outfits with matching pieces and made sure they were clean and free or any rips or tears. Now, it’s no big deal to step out in clothing that hasn’t seen the inside of a washing machine in some time.

    Less diligence with personal hygiene, including the clothing your teen wears, could mean that something else has become more important than being clean and looking good. That something could be one or more drugs.

    4. Former Interests Are Replaced With New Ones or Nothing at All. 

    Hobbies and other interests do change over time. Typically, the changes are gradual rather than happening in quick succession. If your teen’s interests quickly change and the new interests seem to draw the teen further away from family and former friends, drugs may be involved.

    You should also be concerned if those former interests are not replaced with anything at all. Apathy and lethargy can be symptoms of drug use.

    A child who no longer finds joy in prior interests and would rather spend their time isolated or sleeping could be developing a serious drug dependency.

    5. An Increased Need for Cash. 

    Your teen may get a certain allowance which they can spend as they wish. If they begin to ask for more money than usual, it’s possible they could be spending that money on drugs. They might even lie about what they need the money for. For example, they might ask for money to go see a movie but then not be able to present a ticket stub to you.

    If a teen with a drug abuse problem is not able to get the money they need to support their habit, they may resort to stealing money. If you notice cash missing from your wallet, this could be a sign of drug use.

    6. Things Disappear Around the House. 

    In addition to stealing money, teens addicted to drugs may also begin to steal items from their own house. Have you noticed any electronic devices, watches, jewelry, or other personal items missing from where they are normally stored? If so, it’s possible that your teen might have sold these items to raise money for drugs. When drug use becomes an addition, teens will do whatever it takes to get their hands on the drug. That includes stealing from people they love.

    Keep in mind that if you mention the missing items, your teen may hint around that someone else is to blame while also denying any involvement. Be especially concerned if the denial comes with what appears to be an inordinate amount of anger. People with something to hide are more prone to respond in this manner when others are getting a little too close to the secret.

    7. Grades and Attendance Have Declined.

    Although drugs are not the only reason why your teen may start skipping classes or failing to do coursework, it is one of the more common reasons. While you want to keep a cool head, lower grades and reports that your child is not attending classes should be taken seriously. If the underlying cause is drugs, taking action now will save your teen from larger problems later on in life.

    Teen Drug Use Can be Treated

    You love your teen. You want the best for your child. If you see any of these symptoms developing, don’t write them off as being a natural part of adolescence.

    Talk to your teen and find out if drugs are involved.

    If your teen is taking drugs, know that help is available. Seek professional help for your teen and for yourself. With the aid of the right program, it’s possible for your teenager to recover from drug abuse and enjoy a productive life.

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  • Does Football Promote and Encourage Binge Drinking?

    Does Football Promote and Encourage Binge Drinking?

    Football and Binge Drinking

    Whether in the stands or the media, the consumption of alcohol is ever-present and widely celebrated in the world of sport. And with the 2018 World Cup providing the most recent example, it raises the question, does football promote binge drinking?

    If this year’s World Cup has taught us anything, it’s that football and drinking still very much go hand-in-hand. Amid all the excitement and heartache throughout the tournament, alcohol maintained a very active presence in the media. Granted, much of it was due to the huge amounts of beer being thrown in the air to celebrate goals being
    scored, but it’s clear that binge drinking was being given the green light for such a special occasion.

    In this post, we’ll discuss the role of alcohol in football fandom and whether or not it encourages people to have “one too many”.

    Alcohol Sponsorship in Football

    For many years now, a wide range of beer and spirit brands have sponsored football teams and tournaments. Prime examples include Liverpool featuring the Carlsberg logo on their shirts, and the English League Cup spending several years under the mantle of “The Carling Cup”.

    And while alcohol sponsorship on team shirts is substantially less common these days — with gambling and apps seemingly taking its place — there’s still a great deal of it being featured on pitch-side banners, as well as in pre and post-match television ads.

    Although it would definitely be a reach to suggest that sponsorship in football alone is responsible for widespread binge-drinking, it’s safe to say that it’s established a link between the two. For many, this has been enough to promote the idea that:

    Football is more enjoyable while under the influence.

    Are We Ignoring the Obvious?

    Considering that we live in an era where the awareness and treatment of alcohol addiction is held in such high regard, it’s surprising that the dangers of excessive drinking are somewhat ignored when it comes to football. And while it’s fair to say companies aren’t forcing their customers to drink in excess, the encouragement from advertising is a massive influence.

    It’s especially worrying when you consider how many young fans associate football with alcohol consumption, and develop a binge drinking habit early on, due to the established routine of getting drunk.

    The Impact of Binge Drinking

    The definition of binge drinking is consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short period of time. Your body can only process one unit of alcohol per hour, which is worrying, because the average pint of lager contains 2-3 units.

    A football match lasts for ninety minutes (plus 15 minutes for halftime), and, during this time, it’s safe to say the average fan will polish off several drinks.

    Binge drinking can severely impact your mood and mental health, and it’s often the catalyst that fuels violent or hostile situations during football matches. When alcohol is flooded into your system over such a short period of time, it can also harm your liver and kidneys, especially if you binge drink on a regular basis.

    Signs of a Problem

    The definition of binge drinking is to consume lots of alcohol (6 units or more) in a short space of time, or drinking with the intention of getting drunk. For some, this will occur once or twice a month and have no long-lasting problems, but for others, binge drinking can become a regular or even daily habit. Here are some of the signs that your binge drinking is developing into a more serious problem:

    1. You Can’t Consume Only a Small Amount of Drinks.

    One of the most common signs of problem drinking is an inability just to have one or two drinks. Drinking a lot of alcohol because you are unable to stop once you’ve started is not only a sign of a binge drinking problem, but it’s also a red flag for alcohol dependence.

    2. Drinking with the Intention of Getting Drunk.

    There’s a big difference between having a few drinks and ending up drunk and going out with the sole intention of getting drunk. Regularly drinking to the point of intoxication can be harmful for several reasons, so it’s not something that you should aim to achieve and definitely shouldn’t be your reason for drinking alcohol.

    3. Drinking Quick.

    While many people like to sit down and enjoy a cold beer, a glass of wine with some food, or a tasty cocktail at a bar, there are others who finish or ‘down’ their drinks as quickly as possible. This is a common tactic of a binge drinker as it allows them to get drunk as quickly as possible and alcohol is simply treated as a means to an end, rather than an ingredient of an enjoyable beverage.

    4. Drastic Personality Change.

    The overindulgence of alcohol can often bring out a different side of people, causing them to act in ways that can potentially put themselves or others in danger. For example, when someone is sober, the concept of drinking and driving would seem ludicrous. However, they might be able to justify getting behind the wheel after a period of heavy drinking.

    5. Aggression and Violence.

    Several studies have revealed a link between binge drinking and aggressive or violent behaviour. Alcohol can massively influence how you respond to certain situations. So when you’re drinking, things can get out of control due to aggressive behavior. Combine that with other drunk people and there’s a recipe for aggravation and altercations.

    What You Can Do About It

    When it comes to excessive binge drinking the first and most important step is recognising that there’s a problem. Then, depending on the severity of the issue, a decision needs to be made about how you can go about reducing your intake and attitude towards alcohol. Everyone is different and will respond positively to different solutions. If you or someone you know is having problems with binge drinking then one of the following is advisable:

    Remove Yourself from Toxic Environments.

    Regular binge drinking isn’t necessarily a sign of alcoholism or alcohol dependency, in many cases, it’s simply down to the fact that you’re spending too much time in environments that promote the consumption of alcohol. The best way to remedy the situation could simply be a case of not going out for a while or avoiding hangouts such as bars and clubs, but it may require more drastic action such as not socialising with friends who insist on binge drinking regularly.

    Try to Detox.

    Binge drinking often occurs when you get into the routine of going out every weekend. Detoxing is not only a great way to give your body a much-needed rest from boozing, but it also allows you to break the habit and reduce the likelihood of you slipping back into a binge drinking routine.

    Seek the Help of Professionals

    Drinking alcohol to excess on a regular basis can have a severe impact on your physical and mental health, and if you’re struggling to reduce or give up drinking then you should seek professional help. Your doctor will be able to provide advice and guidance regarding any health issues you may be experiencing due to alcohol. However, if you’re looking for detox treatments and sobriety guidance then your best bet is a specialist rehab or addiction clinic.

    In Conclusion

    Whether or not football promotes binge drinking will always be a matter of opinion, but the environment and atmosphere it creates for fans is an undeniable influence. An influence, of any nature, can be enough to turn “a few drinks” into a bout of binge drinking. For the average fan, this may only be once every so often, but, for those who
    watch every game at the pub, it could develop into a serious condition.

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  • Taking Care of an Addict? 5 Tips to Love Yourself First

    Taking Care of an Addict? 5 Tips to Love Yourself First

    This article is short on purpose.

    The tips herein are straight from experience. And, the advice offered is practical and straight forward. If you have any questions, or would like to chat with the author, please send us a comment at the end of the page. Amanda extends her compassion to our readers, and often respond to personal comments within a few days of notification.

    Does This Sound Familiar?

    I am in love with an addict and I try to do anything I can to make sure they are okay.

    If this statement sounds like you, then it is clear that you are not putting yourself first in your own life. Most of us who are in love with an addict are people who are used to being people pleasers and taking care of others. This role for some people starts before they fall in love with an addict. It can seem normal and feel comfortable to choose a spouse or loved one that needs so much of your time and attention because most co-addicts are caretakers by nature.

    In order to break the cycle, you must do the following;

    1. Admit that you are a co-addict and codependent.

    2. Acknowledge and affirm that you want to change.

    3. Find a support person, this can be a trusted friend, therapist or support group that will hold you accountable to this change you want to make.

    4. Write a list of all of the things you do for the addict that you know you should not be doing and then make a list of things that you know you should be doing for yourself.

    5. Start with the first thing on each list and work on them simultaneously. Do not move on to the next point on either list until you have completed successfully the prior action step.

    When it becomes second nature to take care of someone else’s needs before your own, it may take time and practice to undo those impulses. It is important that you take one action step from each list and work on them together so that you have one action that you should not be doing and replace it with something that you know you should be doing. It can be the simplest of tasks.

    For example, from list one, you can stop checking your phone at night for calls from the addict who has not come home and from list two, you could do five minutes of meditation instead.  The purpose here is to replace one habit and replace it with a positive action that is rooted in self-love and self-care.

    Take Care of Yourself First (Instead of the Addict)

    The most important part of loving yourself first is admitting that you are NOT doing it. If you can have a real and honest dialogue with your inner self, then you can start taking the action steps. It is the most empowering feeling to start the process and give you the attention and love you deserve. It can be scary to let go but it will start to feel very good to release the illusion of control you have over the addict and start to take control back of the only thing you can in your life—and that is you!

    View the original article at

  • Horse Riding as Therapy in Addiction Treatment

    Horse Riding as Therapy in Addiction Treatment

    Equine Therapy: Does It Help Address Addiction?

    Yes, equine therapy be used to help address issues related to addiction. It helps us shift emotional and mental patterns, and discover new ways of being. While relatively new, this type of therapy has been shown to have many widespread benefits for both mental and emotional health.

    How?

    Well, to begin, addiction is a complicated disease. It affects the mind, body, and soul…so overcoming cravings and patterns to use drug or alcohol can be constant struggle, one that requires effort. This why we have to be active in our sobriety, not passive, even when we rack up some time in recovery.

    Getting there initially can be the hardest part of the journey. The pull towards drugs or alcohol can be powerful, and it isn’t uncommon that people face many false starts on the road to recovery. Relapses are almost expected, as drug or alcohol use has an allure when we first quit. What that means may be poorly understood by those around the sufferer.

    Even those in the scientific community are learning more about the recovery process every day.

    When a relapse occurs, or when we’re first trying to get sober, we may feel helpless and hopeless. The guilt, both of the addiction itself and the things we have done while in the throes of it, can make the urge to self-medicate all the more tempting.

    Sometimes, talk therapy can feel theoretical. Equine therapy forces you to step into the moment. You change your focus from yourself to another living creature.

    That is why utilizing multiple therapeutic approaches to addiction recovery are so effective. While going to voluntary, “peer-supported” meetings are an awesome way to hold yourself accountable and find acceptance among others who know your struggles, sometimes a 12-step approach isn’t quite enough.

    Dealing with the intense emotional core of addiction takes a professional, and you have many options to choose from. Therapy, counselor-led support groups, psychologist/psychiatrist combos, inpatient treatments, outpatient treatments—they are all proven to be excellent choices. A more experimental—but still highly praised—option to consider is equine therapy.

    What Is Equine Therapy?

    Equine therapy is riding and caring for horses in a therapeutic setting as part of a larger mental health program. During your time in equine therapy, you will bond with a horse, help care for their needs, feed them, brush them, saddle them, clean their stall, ride them and otherwise become connected to the animal on a deeper level.

    How does this help you recover from an addiction? It all starts with an external focus.

    Addiction is a selfish disease. It eats away at you from the inside, making you self-obsessed. So much of your life becomes about the addiction itself, whether it is when you can get your next fix, or how you will hide behavior from those around you.

    When you are coming off of drugs or alcohol, you have that same internal obsession. You are trying not to think about using. You are trying to put forward a certain attitude and appearance. You are stuck in your own head as you battle with the demons that kept you using for so long.

    Equine therapy forces you to move your focus to another living creature. Other animal forms of therapy that exist for addicts are the use of companion animals/support animals, such as cats and dogs. In addition to being larger than us, horses are highly feeling, intelligent animals. Their riders can become very attached to them and able to connect on many levels. Trust is built during both riding and caring for a horse, on both sides.

    Equine Therapy For Other Disorders

    Horse therapy has been used for other disorders as well, including in the treatment of mental health issues in children and teens. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADD/ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, depression, anxiety, personality disorders and more can all benefit from time spent in equine therapy.

    As addiction can often overlap with the above other conditions, making this an effective form of therapeutic intervention that can be added to additional treatments being received by the sufferer.

    What You Will Get From Equine Therapy

    Equine therapy provides its own set of benefits. It is fun and enjoyable. It can be highly relaxing. It gives the mind something to focus on. It heals the body and helps build strength. It offers immediate emotional feedback from the horse, a highly empathetic creature.

    The rider will also learn things about themselves they never knew. They will find discipline and consistency in their activities. They will have time to sort out their own thoughts and emotions in a safe space, on their own time. They will even be able to learn to create and maintain healthy, trusting relationships in an environment meant to help them grow emotionally.

    How To Find Equine Therapy In My Area

    Many stables offer the ability to ride horses that they keep. However, those are not the programs that are catered directly to those needing assistance with addiction or mental health issues and should be a secondary source of interaction with horses.

    PATH International is a great, official source for information and finding an equine therapy program in your area. They are a network of licensed and trained mental health providers who use equine therapy as part of their overall treatment recommendations.

    Once you have found a provider that works for you, it is wise to speak to them about how their program works. Some will offer a staff of therapists in different specialties that work with you alongside the equine therapy.

    Others will have you continue treatment for your addiction and mental health with your own therapist or doctor, in addition to your equine therapy. This combination is a great option for those who have already established a relationship with a provider and want to continue working with them while adding equine therapy to their treatment plan.

    Equine therapy is an amazing, if somewhat experimental, method of treating addiction. It has been shown to have many widespread benefits for mental and emotional health. If you have been struggling with your path to sobriety, maybe equine therapy is the missing puzzle piece.

    View the original article at

  • Hey Teens! Is Cannabis Bad for Your Brain or Mental Health?

    Hey Teens! Is Cannabis Bad for Your Brain or Mental Health?

    New Perspectives

    In recent years, marijuana has been linked on weed-advocate websites to reduced levels of anxiety or depression. So, there are many smokers who strongly believe the drug can help with mental health. But some of their claims are loose, at best.

    Research shows variable influence of marijuana on mental health issues…and some research even indicates that conditions like anxiety can be positively associated with cannabis use.

    More and more young people are trying cannabis on a daily basis. In fact, by the end of today, the National Institutes on Drug abuse estimate that about 6,600 will have taken their first toke. Teenagers just don’t see any harm in marijuana use. Especially, when comparing it to the negative effects of alcohol or harder drugs.

    Furthermore, weed has become widely more available to teenagers. According to a study by the Lancet Psychiatry, nearly every high school student knows of someone who smokes. And about 60% know where these smokers get their weed from.

    Combining cannabis’ easy accessibility and medical benefits gives us an understanding as to why more teenagers are trying it.

    However, when considering the fact that weed is more potent than it was twenty years ago, there’s much concern in how this all affects their mental health. And it’s not just teenagers to be worry about. Adults who smoke chronically are also putting themselves in danger of developing mental illnesses.

    We invite you to read along and join us on this understanding of the true effects marijuana has on the brain. If you have any questions or details of your own, we’d love to hear what you have to say.

    How Can Marijuana Negatively Affect The Brain?

    When discussing the impact cannabis has on your mental health, there are two important factors to keep in mind.

    FACTOR 1: The first is when the user is diagnosed with Marijuana (Cannabis) Use Disorder. People who suffer from the illness tend to show signs of addiction that we outline towards the end of the article. What ultimately decides this diagnosis is how frequently you smoke (weekly or more), the dosage you take, and/or how long the effects of this dosage last.

    FACTOR 2: The second factor is what age you started smoking. Those who start smoking weed before their eighteenth birthday are at risk of harming two key developing stages of the brain. The first is known as synaptic pruning, the deletion of old neuron connections. The second is the growth of white matter, a transmission signal.

    When these two factors are combined, there’s a likely chance certain mental disorders can develop. Truly, it all depends on the individual. Some may be more prone to depression while their smoking buddies might have higher risks of developing schizophrenia.

    Schizophrenia

    So, how is smoking weed related to psychotic states and, ultimately, schizophrenia?

    Research has indicated that using cannabis at an early age for a frequent amount of time can be part of the cause of psychosis. This means cannabis-triggered mental states can interact with other psychoses such as a history of childhood abuse or genetically adopted psychosis. Due to the fact that there are other determiners at play here besides marijuana, it isn’t entirely certain how smoking weed is associated with previously devised psychoses.

    Still, the fact remains that cannabis has a strong connection with developing or furthering a psychosis.

    Both conditions create similar symptoms in the brain. These include:

    • Impaired memory.
    • Impaired cognition.
    • Impaired processing of external stimuli.

    As these symptoms merge, the affected individual experiences problems in learning and remembering. And though it’s not as likely, they can also encounter hallucinations and mislead thinking. Symptoms of psychosis can also increase if an individual is experiencing them without cannabis, then decides to start smoking.

    Depending on the dosage or frequency of a weed smoker, schizophrenia can emerge. In fact, those who use daily are double at risk of the mental disorder in comparison to those who don’t. Even those who had only spent a period of their life smoking marijuana have retained a 40% more likely chance of developing schizophrenia in comparison to those who never tried it.

    That said, not everyone who smokes pot is prone to a psychosis. As mentioned earlier, marijuana’s effects on individuals vary from person to person. Therefore, though someone might not be at risk of developing schizophrenia, there are other mental illnesses that can come about.

    Depression And Anxiety

    In comparison to schizophrenia, this topic is a bit trickier as there are many smokers out there who’ll advocate that cannabis has helped them in their battles with depression and anxiety. Yet, at the same time, there will also be those who claim marijuana has only made these mental illnesses worse.

    In a study by Cambridge University, it was discovered that people who smoke daily were placed at modest risk of developing depression. It should be noted that this risk isn’t necessarily caused by cannabis itself. Rather, it depends on how the user goes about their smoking habit.

    For example, there are some people whose lives will be highly affected. These people will make bad decisions that correlate with their marijuana habit such as dropping out of school or going unemployed. It’s the connection between poor life choices and weed that can prompt depression.

    Likewise, anxiety is a difficult subject as not everyone feels the same way. Some will try to assure you that cannabis helps them relax and relieves much of their anxiety…while others assert they feel an overwhelming anxiety or paranoia when they get stoned.

    BMC Psychiatry assembled 31 different researches to look into the matter. Their conclusion was that marijuana caused little risk for developing anxiety. However, the researchers weren’t denying that cannabis could cause anxiety when the user’s intoxicated. There problem was simply a lack of evidence.

    Pre-Existing Conditions

    The studies mentioned above inform us that cannabis doesn’t seem to inflict depression or anxiety as it can impose schizophrenia. But they don’t advise us on whether marijuana does harm to people already suffering from mental health issues.

    With a collection of data between the years of 2001 to 2002 and 2004 to 2005, a study was made looking into this matter. The research found that there are a variety of factors which play into how a person suffering from mental health will react to THC. These include:

    1. Demographic status.
    2. Living environment.
    3. Family genetics.

    When Should Weed Use Become A Concern?

    When comparing substances, cannabis isn’t necessarily the most addictive or threatening. That’s not to say people can’t develop an unhealthy dependence. Rather, if someone were to give weed a try, they’re not as likely to fall into an life-altering habit as with other drugs.

    Still, addictions will arise with consistent use. And there comes a point in every chronic smokers life when marijuana is an issue. Usually, when it begins to interfere with their personal, social, and professional lives.

    In order to know whether a loved one’s or your own smoking habit is a problem, consider the following:

    • Have you ever felt a strong craving or urge to get high?
    • Have you ever felt a desire to quit, but couldn’t successfully do so?
    • Have you been smoking for a longer amount of time than you originally intended?
    • Has smoking weed affected your performance at work, school, or home?
    • Do you use marijuana in physically threatening circumstances (i.e. driving)?
    • Have you built up a tolerance to its effects and need more in order to feel high?
    • Do you cease to involve yourself in activities you enjoyed before trying cannabis?
    • Has it caused problems with your relationships (spouse, family, friends, boss, etc.)?
    • Have you ever not used for a period of time and felt withdrawal symptoms?
    • Have you continued to smoke weed when you’re aware of negative physical and mental health problems that have arised?

    If you or your loved one has experienced two or more of the above signs, then it’s likely a Marijuana (Cannabis) Use Disorder is present. This is when your smoking habit has become an issue in your life and an addiction has developed. The main indicators of any addiction include three main characteristics:

    1. Loss of control related to drug use. Smoking more weed, more frequently than planned.
    2. Cravings, obsession, and compulsion to use.
    3. Being unable to stop on your own, despite negative consequences to home, health, work, or social life.

    NOTE HERE: In order to be certain of how you or a loved one has been affected by cannabis use, visit a licensed clinical psychologist, addiction doctor, psychiatrist, or clinical social worker for a proper diagnosis. The following information is intended for research purposes.

    Conclusion

    The bottom line is that marijuana can be harmful to your mental health, depending on who you are as an individual. Though not everyone who smokes will develop or heighten a mental disorder, the chance is there and shouldn’t be ignored.

    Furthermore, people with no history in mental health can still develop a Marijuana (Cannabis) Use Disorder. Weed is addictive and has similar dependent qualities as other substances.

    You might be wondering how marijuana is affecting you personally. As already mentioned, the drug works differently within everyone. The research doesn’t give us too many indicates as to how it generally affects an individual’s mental health.

    Therefore, you’ll want to speak to either a psychiatrist, counselor, or doctor on the matter. With their advice, you’ll develop a better understanding as to whether the substance is harming you and what next steps you can take.

    View the original article at addictionblog.org

  • Addiction Breathing and Meditation Techniques: An INTERVIEW with Nathaniel V. Dust

    Addiction Breathing and Meditation Techniques: An INTERVIEW with Nathaniel V. Dust

    Breath is Life

    When you think of it, the one action that involves us with the universe is our breath. We breathe in. We breathe out. However, breathing is not restricted to the physical action of taking in air. It can become a conscious means of communication with…well, with our Higher Power.

    So, if you’re in recovery…how might conscious breathing really help you?

    We’ve been introduced to a man who’s been looking that question square in the face. His name is Nathaniel Hodder-Shipp, a.k.a. Nathaniel V. Dust; he’s been practicing mind-body awareness for years. In fact, Nathaniel has used a number of techniques – with a special focus on breathwork – to help thousands of people process trauma, disarm negative thought patterns, and maintain healthy and happy relationships with themselves and loved ones.

    Read on for more on his work using breathing techniques, dreams, and tarot cards (tarot cards?!) as tools in your addiction recovery. FYI, his websites are breathworklosangeles.com and breathworkforrecovery.com  Then, feel free to ask Nathaniel your burning questions at the end of the article in the comments section. We love to hear from our readers…so please write in!

    ADDICTION BLOG: What’s the most frequent request that you receive from someone seeking healing from substance use disorder?

    NATHANIEL V. DUST: Most clients I encounter just want to feel good in their bodies. It’s not always framed that way, but most requests come down to that.

    People who struggle with substance use disorders use drugs and alcohol to find relief. Maybe at first it started out as some fun, or just feeling good in general, but trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) change the way the brain and nervous system develop, so people seek out the comfort of drugs and alcohol for the ways they help them regulate their nervous systems, numb the pain they’re in, and offer feelings of goodness, which they previously may not have been able to experience as deeply as folks without trauma.

    People who use drugs and alcohol to find relief like that struggle to just feel okay. People want a tangible experience quickly, i.e. instant gratification, just like they were previously able to achieve with drugs and alcohol. Fortunately, breathwork creates relief in just a short amount of time.

    ADDICTION BLOG: Of the modalities you practice, in your experience, which is if the most effective for coping with/ dealing with addiction?

    NATHANIEL V. DUST: Breathwork is certainly the quickest and most profound. What I really love about breathwork is that people feel something happen right away. I don’t often encounter clients who don’t have an experience while practicing breathwork.

    Because addiction is rooted in trauma, adverse childhood experiences, and a dysregulated nervous system, breathwork helps people deal with the core issues surrounding their addictions. Once a person can deal with the trauma and adverse childhood experiences, and learn to regulate their nervous system, it’s a game changer. Things that once triggered them to the point of needing to reach out for a drug or a drink don’t have as much power over them. There’s freedom in that.

    Studies show the efficacy of voluntary regulated breathing practices and how they can help people learn to diminish the trauma responses locked in their bodies. Breathwork helps people reduce the amount of time they spend in a triggered place. Trauma doesn’t just go away, but you can reduce the time spent in reaction and offer relief without having to pick up their substance of choice.

    ADDICTION BLOG: What is Breathwork? 

    NATHANIEL V. DUST: Breathwork is a general term describing breathing techniques.

    The practice I utilize is a two-stage breathing technique done through the mouth while lying down on your back. This practice has its roots in India, as with many breathing techniques, and has been made accessible by my mentor and teacher David Elliott. This technique allows a person to quiet their mind long enough for them to experience what it’s like to be in their body. We’re also helping them regulate their nervous system, which is the foundation of many trauma modalities.

    During a breathwork session, people are able to drop the defense mechanisms that have kept emotions buried and suppressed for years. Once the defensive construct is lowered, people can access the emotions that have unconsciously driven destructive behavior patterns. Plus, they often walk out of a session feeling a sense of euphoria and relief, which are biggies when dealing with SUDs.

    ADDICTION BLOG: How can Breathwork help people with addictions? For example, how effective is breath therapy for dealing with cravings, drugs or other? How does it work?

    NATHANIEL V. DUST: The wonderful thing about using breathwork is that a person can change their experience in a matter of moments. I often tell clients they’ll find relief more quickly with breathing than it would take them to have their plug deliver drugs.

    If a person is in a tough spot, they always have access to their breath. They don’t need anything special. To be able to change the way they’re feeling in less than 15 minutes is a priceless tool.

    There are many medications that can help dampen the effects of the sympathetic nervous system, but none of them correct the underactivity of the parasympathetic nervous system. This allows a person to reduce their anxiety and free themselves from emotional reactivity, which often pulls them back into cycles of recidivism.

    ADDICTION BLOG: How long does the treatment with Breathwork last?

    NATHANIEL V. DUST: It depends. I work a lot in treatment centers, so a group can be anywhere from 45 minutes to 90 minutes. I like to breathe for at least 35 minutes. It can seem like a lifetime, but with the right playlist, it goes by pretty quickly.

    ADDICTION BLOG: Can people diagnosed with addiction practice Breathwork by themselves, or will they always need guidance? 

    NATHANIEL V. DUST: Once they learn the technique, they can practice it at home. I recommend people develop a daily practice of at least 10 minutes. Then they can come do a tune-up with a practitioner from time to time or come to our weekly donation-based support group every Tuesday evening in Los Angeles, called The Recovery Circle.

    We run these support groups so people of all backgrounds and income levels can access the powerful healing afforded by breathwork. We welcome anyone seeking recovery of any kind; recovery from trauma, substance use disorders, PTSD, or mental illness.

    ADDICTION BLOG: Many people may be fearful of clairvoyance…How might someone exploring spirituality in addiction recovery understand the work of reading tarot cards?

    NATHANIEL V. DUST: I usually frame it as a way for people to identify obstacles preventing them from attaining what they truly want in the world. I don’t tell the future, I help people create it.

    It’s viewed as a woo-woo modality but in the right hands, it’s anything but. We take a look at what may be contributing to a person’s unhappiness or locking them in destructive patterns. If a person comes in, say, looking to have questions answered about a relationship they’re in, we pull some cards and they’ll tell us a story about what’s going on, and identify possible solutions. The tarot is not about fortune telling, it’s about cocreation.

    ADDICTION BLOG: How can someone identify and develop a similar gift of healing like those you’ve discovered?

    NATHANIEL V. DUST: I feel most people have these skills already, its just a matter of practice, practice, practice. Each one of us is inherently intuitive, but through conscious practice, we can develop the kind of relationship with their intuition that can change everything for them.

    Meditation is an important facet to developing intuition, so I recommend people start there. Breathwork is an active meditation that allows a person to access and feel their own energy, which is the basis of intuition. Once you can learn to identify what’s yours versus what’s everyone else’s, you’re well on your way to developing your intuition.

    View the original article at

  • Is it Difficult to Quit Marijuana?

    Is it Difficult to Quit Marijuana?

    ARTICLE OVERVIEW: It is fairly easy to quit using marijuana, even if you’re physically dependent on THC. You’ll learn more about the addictive potential of marijuana in this article. Then, we review common side effects of quitting and typical withdrawal protocols. Finally, we offer tips from the experts.

    ESTIMATED READING TIME: 10 minutes

    TABLE OF CONTENTS

    Physical Dependence

    Marijuana is one of the most casually used drugs today. Repeated use can lead to physical and psychological dependence, which means your body and brain crave marijuana to be able to function normally. But what’s the difference between the two?

    PHYSICAL DEPENDENCE is natural and expected outcome of regular use of a psychoactive drug like marijuana. It occurs in all individuals who use marijuana daily…but the time it takes to become drug dependent varies by individual.. Those who are physically dependent can become drug-free through a gradual decrease in dosage or by quitting marijuana cold turkey.

    PSYCHOLOGICAL DEPENDENCE (a.k.a. ADDICTION) can be accompanied or precipitated by physical dependence, but not always. The main difference between physical dependence and psychological dependence are a mental obsession. Those who have become addicted to marijuana will experience an uncontrollable need (cravings) to feel the pleasurable and euphoric rush from another dose. This craving can lead to obsessive-compulsive drug seeking and drug use behavior and an inability to quit smoking weed, even if you want to, even if you are aware of the harm it’s causing

    How Addictive Is Marijuana?

    The jury is still out on this one.

    According to the Controlled Substance Act (CSA) marijuana is still a Schedule I drug. Federally, law enforcement officials view marijuana as having a high potential for abuse/addiction and no medical purpose. However, more and more states are challenging this view. According to Business Insider magazine, in 2018, over half of all U.S. states have legalized the use medical marijuana for therapeutic purposes. The medical use of marijuana is certainly under the microscope.

    Still, scientific research supports the view that marijuana is an addictive drug due to the following facts:

    1. Neuroscientific demonstrations have proved that marijuana affects the reward center in the brain in an exact same manner as all other addictive substances.
    2. Animal studies where marijuana was given twice a day for one week showed an occurrence of addictive symptoms.
    3. Clinical reports of humans reveal a similar pattern of withdrawal symptoms as in animal studies during the first weeks of abstinence.

    The bottom line is that marijuana is a psychoactive drug. It affects the mind. When you use marijuana daily for a period of time, you become physically dependent on the THC found in marijuana. Take away the THC, and withdrawal symptoms occur.

    Still, withdrawal alone does not characterize addiction. The cravings and obsessive thought patterns around use, followed by uncontrolled consumption are the hallmark signs of an addiction. Add to this continued use dspite negative consequences to home, health, or social life…and you’ve got a budding addiction on your hands.

    Why Quitting is Difficult?

    Marijuana does not cause strong physical dependence when used for a short period, but when abused over a longer period it might cause tolerance (need for increasing doses to be able to reach the initial high). High-dose or long-term smokers can experience more severe withdrawal symptoms, making total cessation difficult. Furthermore, the need to use weed to fill an emotional gap can keep people from a life of abstinence.

    Quitting can also be difficult if other people around you continue to use. For example, when surrounded by smokers while trying to give up, you’ll find yourself strongly influenced by them to smoke also. This is why experts advise major life changes when you want to quit for good.

    Dangers

    Marijuana is considered a fairly benign drug, although main dangers of use as reported by the NHTSA include the real threat of drugged driving incidents. Still, there haven’t been any consistent records of severe dangers during quitting. However, the following methods of discontinuation are not recommended due to the high chances of relapse that can lead you back to using again.

    1. Relapse.

    The main risk of quitting marijuana is starting back again. This is called “relapse”.  Excessive cravings can make tapering a prolonged and unpleasant experience for you. In fact, if you find that can’t stop, then you can use cold-turkey as an alternative method. Be aware that going cold turkey can increase the severity of mood disorders and sleeping problems. See the list of side effects below for more.

    2. Stopping marijuana without medical supervision.

    Marijuana alters the brain chemistry and when used for a longer period causes physical and psychological changes. Doctors at detox clinics/ treatment centers can monitor your state and manage withdrawal symptoms to ensure that the process is safe…especially if co-occuring mental health disorders like depression or anxiety are just below the surface.

    Side Effects

    If you’ve been using marijuana for a longer period of time, physical dependence can cause you difficulties during quitting because of withdrawal symptoms. While many people report experiencing few or no withdrawal symptoms at all, others report extreme mood swings, dysphoria, and sleeping problems.

    A list of common marijuana withdrawal symptoms includes:

    • Anxiety
    • Cravings
    • Depression
    • Distorted sense of time
    • Headache
    • Increased aggression
    • Loss of appetite
    • Paranoia
    • Sleep disturbances

    The Safest Way to Quit

    If you feel unable to stop using marijuana on your own it’s best to seek advice for the medical issue from a trained and educated medical professional. To make the process of quitting marijuana safer and less risky you can try any of the following methods:

    1. Medical supervision and the use of medicines.

    This method means that you’ll follow your doctor’s recommends on how to stop taking marijuana. Getting a medical clearance means that your condition will be evaluated by your doctor and you’ll be prescribed with medications to ease your withdrawal discomfort.

    New medications prescribed during marijuana addiction treatment are:

    • Baclofen works by eliminating the reward effects or positive sensations associated with marijuana abuse.
    • Vistaril (Hydroxyzine) is prescribed to help you reduce anxiety during withdrawal.

    The protocol is to test you before and after you quit smoking marijuana. Medical supervision also includes developing an individual plan for reduction of marijuana daily doses between you and your doctor, or a plan to go cold turkey.

    2. Tapering or slowly reducing doses.

    This method can help ease your withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. Gradual tapering is recommended for those who have not succeeded coming off marijuana cold turkey. It is a longer lasting process than cold turkey but possibly more successful in the long-term. Tapering plans are unique for each individual, created along with a doctor, and tailored to a patient’s’ individual needs.

     

    3. Go to a detox clinic, especially if you use other drugs.

    Detox centers allow you to recover in a safe and drug-free environment. Detox programs usually begin with an assessment where you’ll be examined about your length and frequency of marijuana use, drinking, or other drugs. Addiction counselors at the detox clinic will compile a medical history file and develop a withdrawal symptom management course specifically designed to meet your needs.

    Trained physicians and nurses at the detox clinic will help you minimize withdrawal symptoms while keeping you safe. Medical staff at the detox facility will always be available to help you handle any physical stress or emergencies and ensure that your marijuana detox is successfully done.

    4. Consider rehab.

    If you are a long time marijuana user and have developed an addiction, you will highly benefit from a structured and tailored to your needs treatment program. Inpatient treatment programs have an integrated approach which includes:

    1. Introduction to the program and to life without marijuana.
    2. Marijuana detox.
    3. Pharmacological and psychological therapy to help you better cope with withdrawal.
    4. Physical, emotional, and mental health support during the treatment process.
    5. Aftercare programs that teach you about relapse coping techniques.

    Tips for Tapering marijuana

    TIP #1 Avoid carrying big bag with you. Instead, make a gradual reduction plan

    Decide how much you’ll smoke each day and how much you’ll reduce. Then reduce your marijuana into daily bags or daily joints. In order for this to work you need to stick to your daily dose and avoid taking joints from others.

    TIP #2 Take longer breaks between each dose of marijuana

    Find other things that will occupy your mind other than smoking. This way, you’ll prolong the hours between every next dose and you’ll have less difficulty reducing your daily intake. For example, you can start going home or going to bed earlier to shorten the hours during which you usually smoke.

    TIP #3 Gradually cut the number of joints you smoke a day.

    If you currently smoke 6 a day, smoke 6 for 3 days, then 5 for 3 days, then 4 for 3 days, and so on until you quit marijuana for good.

    TIP #4 Stick to your plan!

    The idea of tapering is to help you physically and psychologically accustomed to less marijuana, but this can only work if you have control over how much you consume and don’t give into pressure from your friends.

    Your Questions

    Do you still have questions about cutting down or quitting weed for good? Please leave your questions and comments – or share your experiences – in the comments section below and we will try to respond to you personally and promptly.

    Reference Sources: Addiction Center: What is Marijuana Withdrawal?
    Reddit: Have you ever wondered why is so difficult to quit smoking weed?
    Quora: Why is it difficult to stop smoking weed?
    Rehabs: Choosing the Best Inpatient Marijuana Rehab Center
    Lake View Health: Marijuana Addiction Treatment Facility
    Detox: Your Guide to Marijuana Detox Centers and Programs
    Choose Help: Tapering Marijuana to Reduce Withdrawal Symptoms
    Recovery Connection: Medication for Marijuana Addiction
    Learn About Marijuana: WA: Dependence on Marijuana
    Drug Library: Use of marijuana for therapeutic Purposes
    NIH: Is Marijuana Medicine?
    CSAM-ASAM: Marijuana’s Addictive Potential (for the general public)
    CSAM-ASAM: Marijuana’s Addictive Potential (for healthcare professionals)

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  • Teen Anger Management | Managing Emotions in Addiction Recovery

    Teen Anger Management | Managing Emotions in Addiction Recovery

    Help Your Teen Manage Anger the Right Way

    If you are a parent of a child in addiction recovery, you may feel like you are walking on eggshells. For example, have you noticed that your teen is glued to their cell phone? When you ask your loved one a question, are you met with eye rolls and an angry attitude?

    Before the teen years, you were probably able to talk with your child about almost anything. However, as your child grows older you might encounter anger problems. When not handled appropriately, a teen’s angry feelings could prevent them from having a meaningful career, thriving relationships, and successful educational pursuits.

    Even though anger is a valid emotion, your teen should still know how to handle this feeling the right way. Teen addiction rates are on the rise. If you are wondering how to help your teen with their anger issues, here are some great ways to teach your teen successful anger management skills.

    Create a Household with Appropriate Rules

    Every household has different ground rules concerning anger. Some families may prohibit loud voices in the house, whereas other families find this mode of communication normal. What are your expectations about how anger should be handled?

    Make sure that you create rules that clearly state the appropriate household behaviors, as well as those that will absolutely not be tolerated. Some examples of inappropriate behaviors are:

    • Verbal threats
    • Physical violence
    • Name calling

    Don’t forget to establish consequences for not following the rules.

    Role Model Appropriate Behavior

    When it comes to teaching your teen effective angry management skills, your everyday behavior is everything. Do you yell, swear, and break things when things don’t go your way? If this sounds like you, there are some changes you have to make first before you can expect your teens to control his/her anger.

    Lead by example and show your child the right way to manage and express angry feelings. For instance, if you are upset that your loved one didn’t take out the trash, you might tell them that you are really angry that he/she didn’t complete the chore today. Then go for a brisk walk for ten minutes before discussing the consequences.

    Explain Angry Feelings Vs. Aggression

    Does your child know the difference between anger and aggression? While angry feelings every now and then are completely acceptable, aggressive behavior is simply not ok. Whenever your child feels angry, he/she should know that it’s never appropriate to throw objects, slam doors, or hit people.

    Make it clear that verbal aggression will also not be tolerated in the house or elsewhere. The ramifications of such behavior will not only result in at-home discipline but also legal consequences in academic or social settings.

    Communicate the Common Signs of Anger

    Most teens are also unaware of when angry is on the rise. They may often grow so angry in intense situations that they can’t help but lash out at someone. Instead of letting your loved ones repeat this destructive behavior, why not teach your teen the ways to recognize the physical warning signs of anger?

    During a conversation with your teens, pose this question to them “How does your body feel when you are mad?” Let them know that the most common signs of anger include:

    • Rapid heartbeat.
    • Racing thoughts.
    • Flushed face.
    • Clenched fists.

    Whenever your teens experience these signs of anger, encourage them to take a break from the situation and breathe deeply for about ten minutes.

    Encourage Self-Timeouts

    Everyone needs a break every once in a while. The same is true of a teen who is struggling with anger issues. If a conversation is becoming heated, encourage your teen to retreat to their room to gather their thoughts. After 15 minutes, your teen should be in a better frame of mind to continue the conversation.

    Demonstrate Assertive Skills

    Often times, teens become angry when they feel like others are taking advantage of them. Because of this well-known fact, you should teach your teen assertive skills. For instance, when your teen feels like their rights are being violated, they should know how to speak up for themselves in an appropriate manner. These excellent assertive skills will come in handy when a classmate cuts in front of them in line or a friend consistently calls them names.

    Teach Effective Problem Solving Skills

    If your teens lack effective problem solving skills, there’s a good chance that they might resort to aggressive behaviors. Whether they are struggling with their favorite sport or trying to sort out issues with their best friend, encourage them to identify a few potential solutions to the problem.

    Before choosing the best one, they should thoroughly review the pros and cons of each solution. Don’t be afraid to gently offer your personal thoughts about your teen’s problem while they are brainstorming. The purpose of this exercise is to help your teen see that there are many ways to solve a problem without lashing out. You might even support them as they try to let go of resentment. As time progresses, your teen will grow more confident in their problem solving skills. He/she might even come to you for occasional help.

    Share Successful Social Coping skills

    There are many socially appropriate ways to handle angry feelings that your teens should know. While some teens may prefer playing a musical instrument, others might enjoy going for a brisk walk outdoors. Some other proven coping skills are:

    • Drawing
    • Cooking
    • Reading

    Brainstorm with your teens to identify the specific coping strategies that’ll help them diffuse anger appropriately.

    Always Keep Communication Open

    The lines of communication between you and your teens should always be kept open. Every day when your teens come home from school, remember to ask them about their day. Throughout the conversation, encourage them to talk about their negative feelings. Allow them to fully express how they are feeling by complaining, disagreeing, and disapproving. Keep in mind that the best conversations are ones where they will not feel criticized or judged. Instead of blaming them for their feelings, consider providing a listening ear and solutions when appropriate. The ultimate goal is to make them feel important and loved.

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