Addiction Relapse After Treatment

Due to the chronic nature of addiction relapse, it's always likely to happen despite one having been treated successfully. The rate of occurrence depends on the substance in question. For instance, the rate varies between 30% and 70%.

Factors

Recovering addicts who still have, or can obtain easy access to their substance of choice are more likely to relapse. People facing social pressures, such as encouragement from enablers are also at a higher risk. Psychological conditions and stress at work/home could also contribute to a relapse.

What to do if it Occurs

The occurrence of relapse doesn't necessarily translate into a failure of the initial recovery. It simply means that the process wasn't complete. While a patient is likely to feel embarrassed or ashamed when they return to past habits, it shouldn't hinder them from seeking further help. Though one doesn't have to undertake treatment afresh, they're likely to be analyzed comprehensively to determine the trigger.

When one experiences a relapse, they should first contact their sponsor or follow-up counselor. The person will help the patient decide the best course of action to take. If the person kept a journal documenting their recovery, they could use it to vent out their frustrations as they refocus.

At times, the initial program may have failed to work because it wasn't properly structured to meet the recovering addict's needs. It would thus be worthwhile looking for an alternative that meets specific needs. Relatives and friends could reassure the person by supporting and comforting them. If it isn't possible to get this from others, self-reassurance could help the person realize that the setback doesn't necessarily equate to failure.

Reflection and Learning

Having already undergone treatment, one stands a better chance of understanding the likely cause of their relapse. While reflecting, it's important to be honest so that the setback is properly identified. After this, it's important to realize that the addict isn't going to be judged when they go back to a treatment facility having been there before.

Addiction relapse isn't a rare occurrence; it could happen to anyone recovering from addiction to substance abuse. Proper management of addiction is vital in reducing the risk of relapse. If it does happen however, it should be perceived as a temporary setback on the journey to recovery.

What Comes First, Addiction Or Depression

 

The answer to the question what comes first, addiction or depression, is a bit of a difficult one, sometimes subject to just who is answering it. For the most part, experts and doctors have come to the understanding that these two issues work together, and are often treated as a dual diagnosis. The truth of the matter is that the majority suffering with either is going to invariably be dealing with both at some very near point.

For the most part, when it comes to addiction and depression, it is usually the depression that sets in first. There are many different ways that depression can show it's negative face. Included in these are things like feeling totally isolated, hopeless, numb, completely sad, unable to sleep well, and digestive and food related disorders. Very often this leads the individual going through these terrible times to pick up that drink or drug that they might think will help them to offset these awful feelings.

Of course, this simply begins the downward spiral of addiction, which then leads to only more depression rather than a relief of any. The two continue to feed off each other, and they nourish each other as well. This is why it is so important that the person dealing with these terrible conditions understands that there is in fact hope available to them, and a chance to put a stop to the horror going on. If they are able to get themselves to accept that they do indeed have problems, they can begin to take the steps needed to gain recovery. Taking that first step and admitting they have a problem which is out of control is just so critical. Until they can get themselves to do this, the addiction and depression is only going to worsen. But if they can take this step, the future suddenly looks so much brighter.

The good news today is that the help and assistance you are going to require to help you accomplish your goals is there for you! Please follow us for more information and resources on drug abuse and treatment.

What Is Powdered Alcohol And How Is It Abused?

 

For the first time in United States' history, powdered alcohol has gotten an authorization for sale. However, there is deep concern that various forms of alcohol abuse, especially among the youth may result, and that alcohol may even be snorted. Consequently, many States have called for a ban on the manufacturing, sale, or importation of powdered alcohol.

What Is Powdered Alcohol?

Powdered alcohol refers to alcohol absorbed by sugar derivatives, dextrin, and later put through encapsulation process. Sugar derivatives can be used to trap ethanol and create powder, which can be stored in containers until it's mixed with water or other liquids.

How It Can Be Abused

Powdered alcohol holds myriad potential of being used in risky manners, which may result into dangerous alcohol effects:

• Encapsulation process cannot prevent users from interfering with the capsule and using the powder in ways that it was not intended for.

• Powdered alcohol   can also be snorted, mixed with other products containing alcohol, or given to people who are not aware of the products they are ingesting.


• It can also be easier for the younger generations to access powdered alcohol compared to other alcohol beverages. The risks are even bigger given that the potential of powdered alcohol   have not been fully explored.

Powdered alcohol Abuse Concerns

Powdered alcohol made news when manufacturers began to produce and sell it in Europe. It was generally marketed and intended for teenagers. Now that it's approved in Unites States, many stakeholders are worried that its abuse may be rampant among teens. Its package is easily concealable and it comes in various flavors that may appeal to the younger generation---all these factors don't make this concern indefensible. Even worse is the fact that powdered alcohol can be snorted. While manufactures claim that it's impractical and even painful to snort, the risk of abuse by curious users is considerably high.

It appears that powdered alcohol products may soon be joining alcoholic water, whipped cream or jello-shots packages in our local food stores.

Accordingly, to stay informed on the latest news on powdered alcohol and more resources on drug abuse and treatment, feel free to follow us.

What Is Powdered Alcohol And How Is It Abused?

Over the years, there have been many efforts to combat drugs and substance abuse around the world. While most of these efforts have been largely successful, the recent approval of powdered alcohol products for sale in the country is expected to make things more challenging for government agencies, nongovernmental organizations and charities fighting the scourge of alcohol abuse in society.

Powdered Alcohol Explained

If you are like most people, you're probably hearing about powered alcohol for the first time today. Powdered alcohol is made by mixing dextrin, a sugar derivative, with alcohol. Dextrin absorbs alcohol up to 60% of its own weight, which means a kilogram of dextrin can absorb up to 600 grams of alcohol. This is followed by encapsulation. To make an alcoholic beverage, the powder is first mixed with water or any other liquid. If consumed in moderation, alcohol from alcoholic powder does not have any adverse effects. However, improper use or abuse can have serious adverse health effects.

Why Sale of Powdered Alcohol is Raising Concern

Some states have moved quickly to propose and pass legislation to prohibit the manufacture, distribution or importation of powdered alcohol. This is in response to what happened in Europe a few years ago. When powered alcohol was first introduced in Europe, the packaging and flavors were meant to attract underage users. Local authorities and other concerned parties fear that powdered alcohol will have the same effect in the country. Law enforcement officers are also concerned with the ease with which powdered alcohol can be concealed.

How Powdered Alcohol Can be Abused

Powdered alcohol can be abused in a number of ways. Since the product comes in powder form, snorting is a real risk. The health effects associated with powdered alcohol abuse through snorting are not clearly known, but they exist.
To use powdered alcohol, the powder must be mixed with water or any other non-alcoholic drink, but some misinformed users can mix the powder with beer, spirits, energy drinks or wines among other types of alcoholic beverages. The effects of doing this are not yet known.
Compared to liqueur, it is much easier for teenagers to obtain and abuse powdered alcohol.

Until research is done on the side effects of using powdered alcohol and laws passed to regulate its manufacture, distribution, importation and sale, consumers should avoid powdered alcohol. Follow us for more information and resources on drug abuse and treatment.

Talking About Alcoholism And Diabetes

This article is in regard to such a simply devastating duo, alcoholism and diabetes. Why it is so devastating is because this combination will be one that can and will speed the individual involved to far greater sickness and suffering, and ultimately, if left unattended to, to their final demise. It can and will only have horrific effects on the person suffering, and make no mistake, on their family, friends, and anyone that cares for them. Let's take an even closer look at just how bad this situation can be.

The truth of the matter is that the alcoholic also suffering with diabetes, is making their overall condition worse with every drink they take. And if they are also taking insulin in an attempt to deal with and control the diabetes, the negatives multiply. Their blood sugar level is going to drastically waver. The truth of the matter is that initially it may rise significantly, and as the drinking continues, it can fall just as quickly to low levels. Of course, it goes without saying, that mixing the excessive alcohol consumption with the insulin being taken, is not a good thing. And there is always the chance that the alcoholism will effect the judgment of the person involved, and they will overdose on the insulin, leading to only negative consequences.

The bottom line here is that the person suffering with and enduring alcoholism and all the negatives it brings, must make the decision to get themselves the help they need to stop. Their life is truly hanging in the balance, and that alone should provide the incentive that they need. There is no relief from alcoholism, it will only worsen and lead to disaster. The only cure is to STOP DRINKING, and start to take life back on with a clear mind and a rebounding body. The good news is that this can be done, and the person suffering must be convinced that this is the truth. The path is not always the easiest to follow, but it can and will lead to a better life. Get started today, and continue to follow us for more information and resources on drug abuse and treatment.

What Are The Long-Term Effects Of Heroin Use?

Heroin is a dangerous drug when abused recreationally, and there are many serious potential health consequences associated with long-term heroin use. Physical effects range from withdrawal symptoms to serious problems linked to needle usage. The alteration of brain chemistry can lead to considerable mental health difficulties.

Although not every heroin uses needles to inject the drug, a large number of chronically addicted users will use injections. Long-term needle usage is associated with problems such as collapsed veins, which is caused by repeated injections. Using needles also increases the risk of hepatitis, hepatitis C2 and AIDS, as well as abscesses of soft tissue and bacterial infections.

Heroin addicts also often suffer from dental problems, with inflamed gums a particular issue. Long-term heroin use causes memory loss and severe disruption of appetite, while respiratory infections like pneumonia and even tuberculosis are frequently suffered by users. The drug weakens the immune system, and impurities and additives which are injected along with the drug can cause blood vessel clogging and cardiac infections.

The habitual use of heroin over a significant period of time leads to considerable chemical disruption of the brain's function too. Heroin causes the brain to release unnaturally large amounts of dopamine, which, over time, leads to the brain producing increasingly less quantities of dopamine of its own. Eventually, the brain's own production will decrease to nothing at all, at which point the addict needs heroin simply to feel normal and to function.

Withdrawal from the drug for an habitual user can be painful, with sweating, nausea and other more traumatic physical effects experienced by users who are trying or have been compelled to cease using. Withdrawal needs to be handled carefully, in a safe environment, and preferably by medical professionals. Addicts need to be safely weaned from their usage, causing them the absolute minimum of harm.

Treatment for heroin addiction includes prescription of substitution drugs, as well as behavioural and psychological therapies. A combination of approaches is most often used in a medical setting. Long-term heroin use is a serious health problem, which can often in end in fatality, whether from overdose or other associated health issues.

Can You Get A DUI For Driving Under The Influence Of Marijuana In Colorado?

 

Everyone knows the harsh legal penalties and tragic consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol. What most many people in the state of Colorado do not know is that marijuana DUI in Colorado is illegal and punishable. In fact, it is illegal in all 50 states. However, laws that clearly define what it means to be under the influence vary by state, and so do the applicable punishments. The definition of driving also varies by state.

Marijuana DUI in Colorado

In some states, one would be guilty of driving under the influence if one has any amount of marijuana in one's system. In other states, the driver's urine or blood concentration level determines whether he/she was driving under the influence. A few states, however, require the prosecution to prove that the accused person was driving under the influence.

In Colorado, one is guilty of driving under the influence if one operates a vehicle while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol, or if one drives a vehicle as a regular user of any controlled substances. A THC level of 5ng/ml or higher in the driver's blood infers that he/she was under the influence. The fact that one may be permitted under the law of the state to use marijuana for medical purposes does not constitute a defense against a charge of DUI.

First offenders usually get a mandatory minimum imprisonment of 5 days, but no more than 1 year in the county jail; a minimum of 48 hours, but no more than 96 hours of community service; a fine of at least $200, but no more than $500; or a period of probation, which must not exceed 2 years. Second, third, and subsequent offenses attract stiffer punishments.

In order to combat drunk driving, the state of Colorado introduced sobriety checkpoints, which are permissible under both the federal and state constitution. These checkpoints average less than 3 minutes and are a relatively minor inconvenience to motorists. Consequently, one eighth of all citations issues in 2014 for impaired driving involved suspected marijuana DUI. Driving under the influence of any drug is just as dangerous and deadly as driving drunk. Anyone who drives while impaired by marijuana is guilty of DUI.

HAVE YOU BEEN CHARGED WITH A DUI IN THE DENVER, CO AREA AND ARE LOOKING FOR A DENVER DUI DEFENSE ATTORNEY?
Contact Richard B. Huttner P.C.

Is Cocaine A Narcotic?

Cocaine is considered a narcotic in the United States. However, it is important to note there is a difference between a medical and legal narcotic. Below is an explanation of the differences between a legal and medical narcotic:

What Is A Medical Narcotic?

Cocaine is not classified as a medical narcotic. Medical narcotics work by changing the way pain is perceived by the brain. Narcotics are typically reserved for people who suffer from severe pain. They block feelings of pain. Narcotics are typically only used for three to four months. They most also be used under the supervision of a physician.

What Is A Legal Narcotic?

The legal definition of a narcotic is a drug that dulls the senses. Drugs that cannot be sold, transported or possessed without a dentist or physician's prescription are also classified as narcotics.

Cocaine has a Schedule II drug classification under the Controlled Substances Act. This means cocaine has limited medical usage and a high potential for abuse. Most people who abuse cocaine end up developing an addiction.

Can Cocaine Be Used For Medical Purposes?

In the past, cocaine was used as a local anesthetic and a medicine. However, medical usage of cocaine decreased once health care professionals realized it was very addictive. Some physicians still use cocaine to help stop patients' nosebleeds. It can also be used to control pain before minor nose surgery.

Additionally, cocaine can be used to numb the lining of the throat, mouth and nose. It typically numbs the area within one or two minutes after it is applied. However, because better products have been developed, cocaine is rarely used for medical purposes in the United States.

Dangers Of Cocaine Use

There are a number of dangers associated with cocaine use. Cocaine abusers are more likely to develop mental disorders. They are also at a higher risk for stroke. In fact, cocaine is the drug seen most often in patients who suffer a drug-related stroke.

Classification of Cocaine

Cocaine fits the legal definition of a narcotic, but it is not considered a medical narcotic. Cocaine abuse can also be dangerous, which is why it is seldom used for medicinal purposes.

Talking About The Stages Of Alcoholism

There is no doubt just how devastating the issue of alcoholism can be and is to the person confronted with the problem, and also to all those connected with them. To say that it is a matter of life and death is not an overstatement for sure. And yes, there are in fact stages of alcoholism and one must be aware of them and honest with their appraisal. Let's talk about some now.

Alcoholism can begin as a crafty, illusive condition for many upon whom it creeps up slowly. After all, alcohol is legal to purchase and very often one who imbibes will coordinate their consumption with past fond memories of good times in their past. They will remember those happy times and fellowships shared with others over some drinks. But they might then start to realize that at some point in time, they found themselves turning to that intake to assist them in dealing with a problem or personal issue of one sort or another. A little later the memories will start to come of the times they turned to alcohol to help them handle situations that came up at work, or problems involving the family or their friends. They may even start to realize that their entire thought process had changed, and the planning of their normal day was crafted around what time they would be having a drink, or where they would make certain they were so they could get one to help them along.

At some point, the thought occurs to them that their lives have become time spent planned around when and where they will be imbibing so as to be able to continue to function. Very often, at these times the thoughts start to occur that maybe they might be having a problem.

The different stages of alcoholism can be crafty and unique to each person involved in them and trying to function. The bottom line really is that if one even thinks there could be an issue involve, there is. The good news is that help is in fact available for those who will make the decision and commitment to take it. For starters, you can follow us for more information and help in getting the treatment you need to truly survive and function in this world.

Phencyclidine - Substance Abuse Treatment Tips That May Help

One of the problems that people may have as they try a variety of different drugs is to use substances that will give them high. One particular drug in particular, PCP, has a very large user base, most of which are addicted to the effects of phencyclidine. If you have used Angel Dust in the past, and you are concerned about your addiction to Wack, here are a few ways that you can stop your addiction to the substance.

Why People Use Phencyclidine

Although this drug is illegal now, it was actually used by thousands of people in the early 50s when it was utilized for its anesthetic properties. The problem with the drug was that it caused hallucinations, and because it is a dissociative hallucinogenic, it was made illegal. It is able to affect the NMDA receptors of the brain, and because it is an antagonist, it has similar effects to nitrous oxide or ketamine. The drug is very effective at affecting the hippocampus, which can cause hallucinations to occur along with loss of muscular coordination, increased pulse rate, and a change in the breathing rate of the human body.

Getting Treated For Phencyclidine

There are quite a few treatment centers that you can find around the world, many of which can help people with this addiction. The reason that so many people have a problem with stopping their usage of this drug is not so much that it changes things in your body where you become addicted, but you simply become addicted to the feelings themselves. By working with the clinic that can help you get off of the drugs, you can quickly find a way to stop using PCP and get your life back moving in a positive direction.

Opium is a killer

Opium is a killer but people only think of opium in the form of heroin but that is not true. There's an epidemic of opium use that is being ignored. Ignoring this issue has caused many issues but we must put an end to it it today. Today's opium problem is in the form of prescription drug usage. this is a major problem because this form of prescription drugs are widespread around the country and anyone can get their hands on them. It is a form of addiction that crosses all social groups and economic classes, and someone you know has probably abused opium in someway.

Prescription drugs in the form of opium or opiates is hard to heal from. All opium based addiction falls in the category of classical addiction. Classical addiction is marked by a physical form of addiction that causes severe pain when one tries to quit usage. It is because of these  symptoms that you need professional help when you try to quit opium addiction. The type of help that is needed must come from a professional who has many years of experience dealing with addiction. Opium addiction is not something that you can easily quit at your home.

As you can see, opium addiction is a big deal it is not something that you can take lightly, it isn't something that you can handle on your own, it is a widespread problem, it is deeply affecting the nation, it is being ignored, and we need to put a stop to it right now. If you or someone you know has a problem with opium addiction, then get help now. Make sure that that help comes from a board certified professional who has the experience to give you or a loved one the help that they need. Give us a call today.

Pain Medication Addictions When Using OxyContin - Treatments Available

OxyContin is one of the most powerful opiate based drugs that you can be prescribed by your physician today. It is also one of the more popular opiates that is purchased on the street because of how potent it actually is. The euphoria that you can receive from this particular drug keeps people coming back for more. The more that you use this drug, the more addicted you will become, and the harder it will be to find your way to a life free from opiates. The following information will tell you what can go wrong if you become addicted to oxycodone, OxyContin or any painkillers that are opiate-based. It will then lead into what you can do to get your addiction to pain meds under control.

Problems Caused By Opiates

When you take opiates, especially for a long period of time, and then you suddenly decide to stop, you are going to go through the most horrendous withdrawal symptoms that you could possibly experience. In the same way that people use heroin, and go through terrible withdrawals, this is very similar. Heroin is also derived from opiates, and therefore the symptoms will be very similar. Once you have gone through all of these withdrawals, you may find yourself slowly becoming opiate free.

Treatment Centers For Opiate Addictions

Once you have checked yourself in, you can look forward to having your addiction properly addressed. They will help you get through the shaking, sweating, vomiting, and nausea that comes with this type of addiction withdrawal. Opiates can provide you with a lot of help, and can also be recreationally pleasant, but it's not worth the addiction and the withdrawals that you will have to go through, so by checking into a treatment center and getting the help that you need, you can find your way away from your addiction to painkillers.

Stackers And Juice - End Your Addiction

 

One of the reasons that people often find it difficult to stop using addictive substances is that their body changes chemically. Substances such as opiates actually change the way your opioid receptors function causing you to crave the substance. Other types of supplements, especially steroids, make you addicted because of what they are able to do for you.

When you see that you are having incredible muscle gains, but doing the same work out that you've been doing for years, there's really no way to justify stopping their usage except if you knew what it was doing to your body. Here is a quick overview of what steroids or roids do to your body, and how you can stop using them this year.

Stackers And Their Effects

As you can probably guess, if you are able to build several pounds of muscle mass in just a couple months, it's probably not a very healthy solution for your body. When you do get steroids from a doctor, they are typically for allergies or to help with swelling. Without a prescription, however, steroids are illegal just like GH which is actually very beneficial for you.

Anabolic steroids do the most damage causing you to develop breasts, become infertile or become impotent, and cause you to have painful erections. For women, they will experience the development of body hair, reduced breast size, and the development of a masculine voice.

Stopping Your Use Of Steroids

You can actually be fined several thousand dollars if you are caught with steroids, so you need to be careful anyway. To end your addiction, you simply have to stop taking them, and find another supplement that can do something similar. You should probably work with a friend who is having the same problem, or has successfully stopped using steroids. You can check into a substance abuse treatment center that can help you and your addiction once and for all.