tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26005843911896738332024-03-14T00:22:55.368-07:00Rehab & InterventionHelping you and your family understand, and where to find the help you need.Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-37539538884042982832013-04-23T13:02:00.001-07:002013-04-23T13:02:53.960-07:00Alcohol Facts & Myths<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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According to recent studies, 61% of the U.S. population has
<i>indulged </i>in at least one alcoholic beverage in the past year. Though beer, wine
and liquor are commonly consumed, many individuals do not fully comprehend the
impact drinking has on the body and society as a whole. In this entry, we will
address some common facts and myths associated with alcohol use to shed further
light on its effects. </div>
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<b>Social Drinking<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<i>Myth</i>: You are not an alcoholic if you only drink with
others. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Fact</i>: Though drinking alone is one of the first signs of a
drinking problem, social drinking to excess can also signal an addiction to
alcohol. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Driving</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Myth</i>: I drive much better with a few drinks in me. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Fact</i>: Though alcohol can reduce stress and increase relaxation,
the overall impact of a few drinks significantly impairs our ability to think,
judge and react. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Sex</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Myth</i>: Libido is
increased by alcohol intake. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Fact</i>: Alcohol works to widen blood vessels in the penis,
promoting blood flow both to and from the area – ultimately resulting in
erectile dysfunction. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Coffee</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Myth</i>: Drinking black coffee sobers me up. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Fact</i>: Though coffee’s water content will help your body
dilute the alcohol, it does not sober you up. Caffeine’s effects may cause a
person to believe they are sober enough to drive in spite of the fact that they
are still under the influence. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Warmth</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Myth</i>: Alcohol warms up your body when it’s cold. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Fact</i>: Alcohol actually makes our bodies colder. Though a
shot of alcohol can certainly offer a warming sensation, the feeling only
results from blood rushing to the skin’s surface, causing heat to escape from
the body. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Need Help? </u><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">If you have a friend or loved one struggling with an
alcohol addiction, Family First
Intervention is the place to call. Pick up the phone today and let our team
of addiction specialists help your loved one back on track towards the healthy,
happy life they deserve.</span></div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-73731933005054690742013-04-17T07:29:00.001-07:002014-03-28T09:07:02.133-07:00Denial Defined<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8LhSkdJdgtQR8_4AvrbZA_OzYceerXQSvJ3itqRjmqRtDBQfkKohaKut62wadPnDVC5frbVR2EDUqN1wTjz5laxUc86-w9DS1zRroN5cATI12ZVtLnBUoU3hX9D83QCQSSUvvG4dvYKQ/s1600/87319412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8LhSkdJdgtQR8_4AvrbZA_OzYceerXQSvJ3itqRjmqRtDBQfkKohaKut62wadPnDVC5frbVR2EDUqN1wTjz5laxUc86-w9DS1zRroN5cATI12ZVtLnBUoU3hX9D83QCQSSUvvG4dvYKQ/s400/87319412.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
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Throughout substance abuse and chemical dependency
treatment, addicts must go through a series of denial phases in order to truly
comprehend the problem before moving towards a healthy recovery. In total,
there are 3 unique denial stages throughout the recovery process. For some
users, it can take months or even years to properly address and defeat the
addiction. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Denial Types</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Two distinct denial types exist in recovery. The first type
is akin to lying, as an addict, when confronted about their dependence, denies
any issue while understanding its existence. An individual who is truly unaware
of the extent of the issue at hand defines the second. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Phase 1</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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Denial stage 1 refers to a user who refuses to admit to the
addiction. This does not necessarily mean that they will not address the issue;
rather, they do not view it as a problem. Other users may acknowledge the use,
but refuse to accept that an addiction is present. Overcoming this initial
stage can only occur through abstinence and educational means. In order for a
recovery to take place, the addict must first accept their addiction as a
problem behavior. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Phase 2</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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Denial stage 2 often surfaces following treatment. In this
circumstance, the addict feels they have been “cured”, while refusing to seek
additional help from exterior sources. In order to move beyond phase 2, the
addict must understand that they are powerless to maintain sobriety on their
own. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Phase 3</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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The final denial stage sees an addict refusing to commit
full-heartedly to recovery. Though the addict may vocalize a commitment, they
may prove unable to maintain it for a long period of time. Phase 3 is often the
shortest in the denial pack – leading either to relapse or increased
involvement in the recovery lifestyle. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Need Help? </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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If a friend or loved one is struggling to come to grips with
an addiction to drugs or alcohol, seek out help. Don't wait - tomorrow may never come.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-61877937910432164152013-04-15T10:20:00.003-07:002013-04-15T10:20:59.205-07:00Intervention Roles<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw5jDHxAWggEf72pbrpHhRUnxeWmaeaoM2AYqwVCtXAZLrf_2l5ffwVaUZoHUN9ZP1x42EQM9dh6xNzHeQk5OYsUKHBRCIurExBxk2lFCtE4zQ2ISPdjiAaMMVv_k2J4UVvhb49k-bUb4/s1600/96257237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw5jDHxAWggEf72pbrpHhRUnxeWmaeaoM2AYqwVCtXAZLrf_2l5ffwVaUZoHUN9ZP1x42EQM9dh6xNzHeQk5OYsUKHBRCIurExBxk2lFCtE4zQ2ISPdjiAaMMVv_k2J4UVvhb49k-bUb4/s320/96257237.jpg" width="301" /></a></div>
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An intervention may be necessary to communicate concern to a loved one struggling with addiction. The goal of any intervention is to encourage the addict to seek help in combating these matters. When it comes to staging an intervention, several roles must be filled to ensure s positive outcome for all participants involved.</div>
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<strong style="color: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: inherit; line-height: 1.625;">Interventionist</strong></div>
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At the forefront of the alcohol or drug intervention team is an interventionist. This specialist is a licensed professional with extensive training and knowledge in the realm of addiction and recovery. The interventionist works with participants by explaining the process of intervention, while guiding everyone through best practices in confronting the individual in question,</div>
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<strong style="color: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: inherit; line-height: 1.625;">Family and Friends</strong></div>
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The role of loved ones during a family intervention is extensive. Participants are encouraged to communicate their concern and love for the addict, while confronting them about their alcohol and/or drug abuse. Additionally, loved ones must explain that they are no longer willing to enable the addiction any further through emotional or financial means. The alternative to this consequence is that the addict seek help through an addiction treatment program.</div>
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<strong style="color: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: inherit; line-height: 1.625;">Addict</strong></div>
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Ideally, the addict should be respectful to all participants by listening to their concerns and requests. Addicts will commonly deny the presence of an issue and refuse to accept help. If the subject becomes combative, the interventionist and participants must support each other while reaffirming their commitment to a happy and successful outcome.</div>
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<strong style="color: inherit; font-size: 15px; font-style: inherit; line-height: 1.625;">Tips and Warnings</strong></div>
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An intervention can be utilized to address an array of addictions, including but not limited to hoarding, sex, gambling and eating disorders. Securing treatment prior to the intervention is encouraged to avoid a last minute change of heart by the addict.</div>
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Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-87823329716202690202013-04-10T11:56:00.001-07:002013-04-10T11:56:55.515-07:00How Families Enable Addiction<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOHcFmqRPNddfcb4Suf4tWtgJ9rVDk3-lCNbpQbB3zncwHQY8p7T2fXt-O6UQsgduuqpz-YkxwO4ddMzPfOmQUSEP_OB1op7Tc6lXLh_z9pVNt2GjinRXY61MWPhDYbt61qXKZvFIsPzo/s1600/137312890.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOHcFmqRPNddfcb4Suf4tWtgJ9rVDk3-lCNbpQbB3zncwHQY8p7T2fXt-O6UQsgduuqpz-YkxwO4ddMzPfOmQUSEP_OB1op7Tc6lXLh_z9pVNt2GjinRXY61MWPhDYbt61qXKZvFIsPzo/s400/137312890.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
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Drug and alcohol addiction has the ability to ruin family
life from the inside out, in addition to a number of social, economic and legal
issues. Though the impact on the individual and surrounding family differs with
each situation, the problem does not discriminate according to race, class, or
gender. In this entry, we will take a close look at some common enabling
behaviors. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Financial</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Any form of drug or alcohol addiction comes with a financial
burden. Whether financial troubles stem from an inability to maintain
employment or the diminished income due to excessive use, the problem remains
the same. If an individual loses their job due to addiction, they may be
required to seek financial aid from parents, siblings and friends. Though it is
natural for loved ones to wish the addict success, continuing to bail them out
will only serve to perpetuate the cycle. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Long story short: An addict without reason to quit using
will not stop until they have one. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Silence</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Some family members may enable addiction by hiding the issue
from others within the family circle. A sister who is aware of her brother’s
drug addiction but who neglects to inform her parents is enabling the abuse to
continue. Choosing to hide or ignore the issue from those who may take action
prohibits the issue from obtaining the attention in requires, but does nothing
to solve the problem. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Your family member does not need time… They need HELP. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Denial</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Many types of enabling are complicit or even overt and
proactive, but denial is another characteristic of loved ones who enable
addiction. By choosing to deny or ignore the issue, family members only fan the
flames of addiction. Denial is both a trick and mechanism of the addict and/or
codependents, used to divert attention from the issue at hand. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-11405814512767573432013-04-04T09:05:00.000-07:002014-03-28T09:07:51.825-07:00Intervention Types<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Ij31OS4pJCtB2OqHLGUvFgzou7xXJGuCHVTkxIKbHsI3_buE07KAhxCapi4kNDxeov3PZS99d6I8hvCYHHT_jIZe1xqVipSwF5hF8AFc9gf2OKhDXPK_SiUIAozuxD8r3iPPFM3kPAE/s1600/156190218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Ij31OS4pJCtB2OqHLGUvFgzou7xXJGuCHVTkxIKbHsI3_buE07KAhxCapi4kNDxeov3PZS99d6I8hvCYHHT_jIZe1xqVipSwF5hF8AFc9gf2OKhDXPK_SiUIAozuxD8r3iPPFM3kPAE/s400/156190218.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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Intervention is a response to a person and situation that
require exterior help. Common reasons for intervention include: extreme
depression and suicidal tendencies; drug and alcohol abuse; eating disorders;
and other serious life issues that pose negative influence on the individual in
question. A variety of intervention strategies can be utilized, each of which
we will cover in the entry below. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Emergency Intervention<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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A crisis or emergency intervention takes place when a person
poses an immediate threat to themselves of others. This intervention type is
typically performed without much planning by friends and family members. Loved
ones of the subject understand the immediate danger, confront the person in a
loving and time-efficient manner, and transport them to a treatment facility of
hospital to begin recovery. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Family Intervention<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Family
interventions occur in cases where loved ones communicate their concerns to
the subject in an honest and open manner. Unlike a crisis intervention, the
loved ones plan exactly when, where and how to confront the individual about
their behaviors. This confrontation involves communications in a loving and non-judgmental
fashion, while making certain to convey a need for treatment. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Teen Intervention<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Personality, maturity and age must all be taken into account
when considering a teen intervention. These intervention types can prove more
delicate than others due to the confrontational and rebellious nature of some
adolescents. In many cases, you may consider seeking the aid of an
interventionist to assist you throughout the intervention planning and
implementation process to help ensure a positive experience. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-76824759423048714952013-03-27T12:03:00.000-07:002014-03-28T09:08:43.600-07:00What Type of Letter to Write For An Alcohol Intervention<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>Alcoholism</i>, a dependency to alcohol, is an extreme
condition. For family and friends of an alcoholic, being forced to stand by and
watch the individual spiral can prove quite frustrating. If you’re seeking
change in the life of an alcoholic loved one in addition to yourself, an
intervention may be the route for you! In this entry, we will discuss the best
techniques and strategies when creating an intervention letter. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Significance</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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During alcohol intervention, family and friends create letters in an effort to avoid chaos and excess
emotion during the intervention. Without these letters, anger and frustration
can quickly become a main focus; creating additional barriers on path to the
main goal of the intervention: getting the alcoholic to seek treatment. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Intro</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Each intervention letter consists of three parts and should
not run longer than 2 pages. The introduction of your letter should communicate
how much you care for the individual in question. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Body</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Your letter’s body should include reasons why the individual
should seek help. Cite recent instances where the alcoholic’s behaviors have
hindered the life of both the alcoholic and those surrounding them. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Conclusion</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Your conclusion should once again affirm your love for the
alcoholic, while requesting they accept help for their affliction. A
well-written letter is an essential aspect of any successful intervention. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Considerations</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Prior the intervention, all participants should gather to
share their letters with one another. This will help ensure fresh content,
while serving as an editing platform to remove feelings of hostility, finger
pointing and blame. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-64287029751521197042013-03-27T11:58:00.000-07:002014-03-28T09:09:24.398-07:00What Is Your Intervention Objective? <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvI9SChCYwNbzw7Zxxn-Kg2qNA97KT1nr-Oa7ORoX5zMtevwQf6evyxDpFi1c54nXgftJR6gVI7b-blW3yV4CzVxcW3W-lppdUeIurYRRpbLcU7Jvq61bI-QDsRt_UAvU4QUsJc5wUP6M/s1600/80701337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvI9SChCYwNbzw7Zxxn-Kg2qNA97KT1nr-Oa7ORoX5zMtevwQf6evyxDpFi1c54nXgftJR6gVI7b-blW3yV4CzVxcW3W-lppdUeIurYRRpbLcU7Jvq61bI-QDsRt_UAvU4QUsJc5wUP6M/s400/80701337.jpg" height="273" width="400" /></a></div>
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A family requested drug intervention is a momentous step forward for friends and family
seeking to address a loved one’s addiction. But before you can properly use an
intervention, it is important to determine precisely what you are hoping to
achieve by it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Confrontation<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Your first and main objective of the intervention should be
confronting the individual whom the intervention is for in regard to their
substance abuse issues. It is vital that the subject is acutely aware of the
spot they have place themselves and loved ones into, and important they be made
to understand the extent of their issue. Until a subject admits to their
behaviors, the intervention cannot proceed. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Relationship Impact<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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The second intervention objective should be letting the
individual know exactly how their addiction and behaviors have impacted the
lives of those surrounding them. Having each participant communicate just how
their life has been affected by the subject’s addiction will serve in opening
the subject’s eyes to the damage inflicted. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Healing</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Participants should attempt to heal their relationships with
the addict. This objective is extremely important, and is recognized as a
crucial step in maintaining support for the individual while communicating that
their loved ones will be there for them if indeed they choose to seek help for
their issues. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<b>Solution</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Of course, the real objective of any intervention is a
happy outcome. Getting the subject to assume responsibility for their problems
and agree to treatment is a win-win situation, and a step towards the healthy,
happy life they and the family deserve.</span></div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-41481858015994759932013-03-25T07:33:00.000-07:002014-03-28T09:09:43.266-07:00Alcohol Intervention Guidelines<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Do <i>you </i>have a loved one requiring treatment for alcoholism?
If so, an alcohol intervention may be the road to follow. Truth be told, an
intervention can be a stressful ordeal. Though you likely have reservations
about confronting your loved one, it is important to take action before the
issue escalates into greater risk areas. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-C84q2m9HSyag8kGCLEqdhzI5kNUqoXhNkNlL7bDGB1qELmxV7L1bpPRdo0NA_CQyI4LzoNRaV-A8phiVOa2NfC1M5qCAdB1dmnf7UMo2hW1VdJh8gyiT91PUY2xv0AtLZcQgDGokD-Q/s1600/200543125-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-C84q2m9HSyag8kGCLEqdhzI5kNUqoXhNkNlL7bDGB1qELmxV7L1bpPRdo0NA_CQyI4LzoNRaV-A8phiVOa2NfC1M5qCAdB1dmnf7UMo2hW1VdJh8gyiT91PUY2xv0AtLZcQgDGokD-Q/s400/200543125-001.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<b>Location, Location, Location</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The proper location is essential to the success of an alcohol intervention. This spot should serve as a neutral zone for both the
alcoholic and participants alike. In this way, you can effectively lessen the
possibility of your loved one feeling threatened or on-guard. Plan a time when
the subject is most likely to be clear headed and sober to ensure they are able
to fully understand the extent of the situation at hand. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Communication</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Before the intervention can begin, it is important to obtain
a commitment from the alcoholic that they will listen without interruption
while others are speaking. Express your concern without blame or accusation.
Stick to the facts and support your claims with recent examples of how the
individual’s behaviors have negatively impacted both themselves and those
surrounding them. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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In most cases, it’s best to write out your feelings ahead of
time. It can be easy for emotions to get the best of us in stressful
situations. In this way, you can communicate your concern clearly, without
frustration, anger and personal attacks. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Offer Answers<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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After each participant has been afforded the opportunity to
communicate his or her concerns, a solution must be offered. Having a treatment
plan in place prior to the intervention is imperative to a safe and successful
transition into recovery. If your loved one agrees to accept help, your plan
must be enacted immediately to avoid delays and second thoughts. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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If the individual shows hesitancy towards recovery, an
ultimatum should be offered to motivate them in the right direction. Ultimatums
can range from revoked financial assistance to cutting off communication
completely. Please note that if you are unwilling to carry out the ultimatum,
it should not be given. Empty threats will get you nowhere; causing only
additional issues moving forward. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
</div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-76747211369018608942013-02-27T07:19:00.001-08:002014-03-28T09:10:08.349-07:00Facilitating A Group Intervention<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Interventions are generally comprised by a group of family
and friends with the intent to aid someone engaged in self-destructive
behaviors. Though these encounters are commonly thought to be for individuals
struggling with addiction and substance abuse, they can be organized around
other behaviors as well. From hoarding
and eating disorders to gambling and mental health issues, interventions are
able to help people accept the extent of the issue at hand, and the help being
offered to combat it. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI9qQ6Juikpvh3sMT3nnCORjzS7X9RckfGwGfHMUAH512Ptbl-9rh6uYQIvdfow2sd4VSWoQkSWBX8G7tTkf0boVmNeTwJmoCwdROA4-trAMdar5hSvFG7t_zZUbcvEK4T5-GEfzB0zhk/s1600/106561919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI9qQ6Juikpvh3sMT3nnCORjzS7X9RckfGwGfHMUAH512Ptbl-9rh6uYQIvdfow2sd4VSWoQkSWBX8G7tTkf0boVmNeTwJmoCwdROA4-trAMdar5hSvFG7t_zZUbcvEK4T5-GEfzB0zhk/s400/106561919.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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1 – Contact friends and family members of the individual for
whom the intervention will be based around. This group can include anyone from
co-workers to religious figures such as a priest or rabbi. Communicate your
ideas surrounding the intervention with those you’d like involved to ensure
that all are on board. Discuss your reasoning behind the actions being taken,
along with the results you’re hoping to see. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 – Reach out to an intervention specialist. During the intervention, your loved one may react with
anger toward you and the other participants. Involving a neutral party within
the circle will help defer aggression and center focus on the real issue at
hand. In addition, a trained interventionist can also help organize and
moderate the intervention to ensure that everything runs smoothly, and that
everyone is on the same page. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3 – Determine terms within the group before the actual
intervention. In order to achieve a happy outcome, most interventions will
require some form of ultimatum. Enabling the addict through financial aid,
shelter, or covering for them will only perpetuate the cycle of addiction and
negativity. As such, the addict must understand that they will no longer be
provided assistance unless they choose to seek help. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4 – Plan out a place, date and time for the intervention to
be held. Ideally, you’ll want to choose a spot that is neutral to both the
addict and participants such as a hotel room or friends home.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5 – Participants should each write a letter to the
individual describing just how difficult it is to watch them wallow in
self-destructive behaviors. Letters should cite specific examples of how the
addiction has affected the participant on a personal level and how they hope
the addict will seek help for their problems. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6 – Make arrangements for treatment prior to the
intervention. Once the individual agrees to treatment, it’s important to enact
a plan right away to avoid any second thoughts. Have your treatment facility on
call, and travel arrangements ready to go. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-45847040131405141142013-02-21T08:25:00.000-08:002014-03-28T09:10:26.348-07:00Handling Anger From A Drug Addict – A How-To Guide<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
In some cases, we are not afforded a clear choice in leaving
loved ones who are struggling with anger issues caused by abuse and addiction.
In this entry we will offer up a few tips to help you cope with your situation.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVKprYvZe_QhtoAWuFNtvfAS7xokbFJy6yEE_THCf1qL18kdLYveqBL5xtA3kpgwjpwjOzowZVZl1ihOldin_8UGJxCgnMsWi3By5DGnXqIp7dWxsk6uneMPDv6A7vgQ3NU60VtCWAF0/s1600/86481526.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVKprYvZe_QhtoAWuFNtvfAS7xokbFJy6yEE_THCf1qL18kdLYveqBL5xtA3kpgwjpwjOzowZVZl1ihOldin_8UGJxCgnMsWi3By5DGnXqIp7dWxsk6uneMPDv6A7vgQ3NU60VtCWAF0/s400/86481526.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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1 – Avoid taking anything personally. Place yourself in a
mindset that focuses on the present rather than allowing harsh statements or
aggressive behavior destroy you. Remember to take a deep breath and remain
clam. Screaming or placing blame on yourself will only escalate the drama… and
you already likely have a surplus. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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2 – Create a list of addresses, phone numbers and other
contact information of loved ones and friends to assist you should things get
out of hand. You never know when you might need them. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3 – Face the facts. The addict is not angry at something you
did. They are angry at themselves. The drugs simply add to the aggression.
Avoid fooling yourself into believing that time will heal the situation. It
won’t. Your home isn’t going to clean itself up without a good fight… neither
will an addict. Don’t let the troubles pile up. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4 – Take steps to address potential codependency issues.
Though you may not have the ability to drop everything and build a spiritual
practice, you can question, “What am I gaining by continuing to enable this
predicament?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
5 – Focus on you! Start off slow and envision a life
independent of negativity and addiction. Share your thoughts in a diary. Read a
book. Do something for YOU. By engaging in activities of self-worth, you will
eventually develop it. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6 – Stage a drug intervention. This will provide you with the ability to fight back
against your loved one’s addiction, while offering assistance towards a healthy
and happy recovery. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-83010664982310355522013-02-18T12:40:00.001-08:002014-03-28T09:10:45.752-07:00Drug Abuse Confrontation Techniques<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "ArialMT","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: ArialMT; mso-bidi-language: EN-US;">Watching a loved one struggle
with drug addiction is an extremely difficult position to be in. Learning to
confront the issue is yet another. Before a discussion can take place, it is
important to determine whether the individual in question is aware of the issue
at hand. Many addicts have trouble recognizing substance abuse problems; a fact
that may ultimately alter the way to address the issue. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "ArialMT","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: ArialMT; mso-bidi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "ArialMT","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: ArialMT; mso-bidi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "ArialMT","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: ArialMT; mso-bidi-language: EN-US;">Instructions<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "ArialMT","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: ArialMT; mso-bidi-language: EN-US;">1 – Think before you speak.
Having an organized plan of action prior to the discussion is key to a positive
outcome. Determine which points should be addressed and what wording to use.
These confrontations can be emotionally draining as is without having to
scrounge about for the right word. Write out your thoughts ahead to time to
keep both you and the conversation focused and on track. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "ArialMT","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: ArialMT; mso-bidi-language: EN-US;">2 – Be realistic. Not every
confrontation will end on a happy note; there may not be kisses, hugs and thank
yous. You may be met will anger, denial, yelling and defiance. Many addicts are
simply not ready to face their substance abuse issues. By preparing yourself
for the worst, you stand a much better chance of success. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "ArialMT","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: ArialMT; mso-bidi-language: EN-US;">3 – Provide alternatives and
solutions. Simply suggesting that someone quit using will do little to change
the situation. Have a plan of action ready! Look into local rehab facilities,
counselors and support groups to further your cause. If you expect resistance,
you may consider organizing a drug intervention to further illustrate the effect their addiction has had
on those surrounding them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-26811231317923762902013-02-13T08:53:00.003-08:002014-03-28T09:22:28.461-07:00Strategies For A Successful Intervention<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Choosing the right <a href="http://family-intervention.com/information/help/interventionist/family-interventionist/">family
intervention strategies</a> can be tricky. What works well in one instance may
not necessarily be the proper course of action for another. Interventions exist
in a number of forms: Some bluntly express a need for change. Others can be
more subtle. Depending on the subject and circumstances, it may be necessary to
perform several interventions before getting the intended message across. In
this entry, we will discuss some common strategies to employ in hopes of a
happy outcome. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Counseling</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
People abuse alcohol for a variety of reasons. Some self
medicate in an effort to address underlying issues they may not even know
exist. An intervention can be subtle, such as a suggestion to seek professional
counseling. Even in cases where the individual does not intend to quit
drinking, working with a seasoned counselor may help them come to grips with the
full extent of their issues. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeSVQDz_twIOK3124SO-5KwjZURiGCiPo8m7Lyqvy6BxWRLhAEmxp4_B8Voufb0UAskNErArFl8lGGTRhWyFAgAUo40dKk2M6NWT9ibosFA3bMU3lf7pXiGOUwoEqwX_g_9ElRDWNxUAg/s1600/We+can+help.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeSVQDz_twIOK3124SO-5KwjZURiGCiPo8m7Lyqvy6BxWRLhAEmxp4_B8Voufb0UAskNErArFl8lGGTRhWyFAgAUo40dKk2M6NWT9ibosFA3bMU3lf7pXiGOUwoEqwX_g_9ElRDWNxUAg/s1600/We+can+help.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Stop Enabling<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
An individual who is unable to maintain steady employment
and regularly borrows money from friendly and family members is typically only
obtaining help to continue their irresponsible behaviors. If an alcoholic is
not provided reasons to alter their ways, the cycle will perpetuate. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Though you may view it as harsh, the absolute best way to
aid a struggling addict is by cutting off their lifeline. When loved ones put
their foot down in regard to financial support, the addict is forced to look at
their situation in a more delicate manner. Chances are that after a week or so
without cash flow, they will choose to gain employment or seek professional
help. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Restricted Contact<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Many alcoholics display behaviors that are simply
inappropriate when they are under the influence. They may allow anger to get
the best of them; they may curse, yell, or simply become belligerent. If this
behavior is regularly displayed in front of children, such as nieces, nephews
or grandchildren, it’s important to set boundaries by restricting their contact
until help is obtained. This technique is not only beneficial to the individual
in question, but the children as well. The idea that they are no longer allowed
to communicate with their loved ones may be just enough to consider recovery
possibilities. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-87107290061208634902013-01-29T10:11:00.000-08:002014-03-28T09:24:19.769-07:00The Benefits of Sobriety<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
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Drug and alcohol addiction leads to an array of issues
affecting the user’s health, career, relationships and finances, among other
things. Breaking the addiction cycle and choosing a sober lifestyle offers the
potential for numerous benefits and possibilities that would otherwise remain
hidden from view. Though this road can certainly be a challenging one to
navigate, the positives await at our destination far outweigh any possible
negatives. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhorFmIGHJwsCfuCxGeaBj4LMymS34Kz59QVnj6XZMyxRUiBfuv6V8OP6zLWFHQLbGyi3Ayz4mdKuj0oVZnP72IKZXXvoB09U4iCjyfKy2bEV8QpnEl-E6SJck5Y9T1w-M7tisp-dcyYbY/s1600/80608340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhorFmIGHJwsCfuCxGeaBj4LMymS34Kz59QVnj6XZMyxRUiBfuv6V8OP6zLWFHQLbGyi3Ayz4mdKuj0oVZnP72IKZXXvoB09U4iCjyfKy2bEV8QpnEl-E6SJck5Y9T1w-M7tisp-dcyYbY/s320/80608340.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Self-Realization<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Alcohol often brings out negative aspects in its users.
Removing alcohol from the equation provides you with the opportunity to be
self-reliant and free. Sobriety allows us to uncover and reconnect with the
real you – the genuine article. With the clarity gained from sobriety, it is
much easier to determine who you really are and where you are headed in life.
The possibilities are endless. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Opportunity<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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Any time we use exterior substances to ensure happiness,
stress relief or to deal with our troubles, it traps us. Life becomes
unimaginable without the crutch, and your day becomes consumed by ensuring you
are able to obtain it. Alcohol dependency places limits on what we believe we
can accomplish. A sober person is not inhibited by alcohol; They do not
sabotage betterment efforts; They are free to live how they choose. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Health<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Excessive alcohol use works to damage each and every part of
our bodies, leading to health deficiencies and illness. Once alcohol is removed
from your life, your body will begin to replenish its supply of minerals and
vitamins. Your organs will heal, and in time, your metabolism will kick back
into gear. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Relationships</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Sobriety provides us with the opportunity to renew damaged
relationships with loved ones. Addicts will commonly take center stage and
priority to everything else in life, causing hurt, embarrassment and resentment
among those we care for. By removing the alcohol barrier, the healing process
can begin to play out. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i><b>Need Help? <o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
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If a loved one is suffering from an alcohol or drug addiction, call an intervention specialist to start your path to recovery.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-7011789230519880692013-01-27T11:52:00.000-08:002014-03-28T09:24:33.819-07:00“Thank You For The Intervention”<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Making a point to thank a friend or family member who helps
you overcome a self-destructive behavior is a noble act indeed.
Self-destructive behaviors are generally associated with addictive
personalities and can quickly ruin an individual’s life if left alone. Common
examples include drug and alcohol abuse, gambling, or even internet
preoccupation. In a great number of instances, successfully overcoming the
addiction requires the intervention of an outside person or group. Once the
addict has embarked on the road to recovery, a simple “thank you” may be in
order. Here’s how to go about it: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPl83xkeLuV_c0hk-SZ3bz_HbjM1zjpIG-jUQOkj5unQFj6j3tPPTGpO9WzvYW5_3O_E5GISMCSa5DknYNqYXDxOWDxNMfp8l-INVpirm_O2i02ACmrQYOS-BWveUoBhH2aczx7mTNfWo/s1600/91782342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPl83xkeLuV_c0hk-SZ3bz_HbjM1zjpIG-jUQOkj5unQFj6j3tPPTGpO9WzvYW5_3O_E5GISMCSa5DknYNqYXDxOWDxNMfp8l-INVpirm_O2i02ACmrQYOS-BWveUoBhH2aczx7mTNfWo/s400/91782342.jpg" height="270" width="400" /></a></div>
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1 – Sit down and write out a thoughtful thank you letter to
the individual or group who spearheaded your recovery. Communicate your gratitude
and offer up specific details regarding how the intervention helped you. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 – Conclude your letter with details pertaining to your
post-intervention life. Perhaps the best way to express your gratitude is to
provide examples of just how your life has turned around since the invention. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3 – Pick up the phone and give them call. A one-on-one
conversation will provide the individual responsible for the alcohol invention an opportunity to understand the full extent of your
gratitude and sincerity. Another advantage of a phone conversation is the
ability to communicate your progress in recovery. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4 – Think of a personalized gift to send the individual.
This gift does not have to pertain to the recovery or intervention. It can be
as simple as a teddy bear or flowers. The most important aspect of a thank you
is the gesture itself. <o:p></o:p></div>
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</div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-62127138402209931272013-01-22T11:50:00.000-08:002014-03-28T09:25:27.576-07:00How To Commit An Addict<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
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Alcohol and drug addiction is a dangerous vortex that takes
hold of not only the addict, but everyone surrounding them. Loved ones are
forced to sit back and watch as the addict’s life spirals to a point where the
distinction between reality and abuse becomes blurred beyond distinction. For
many people, it can be near impossible for friends and family members to commit
a loved one voluntarily. Regardless of how this task is performed, committal
rarely lasts more than a 72-hour period – leaving a heap of misunderstandings,
frustration and rage in its wake. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJXg8OsdauV1qEO0U3EqpyUiqQvsuGb73EUmXG4I4cmPdNbacSMdyXPyBU4ZEyXiNhYt0QS2JpqjBFI6Bqe-SqJ4jlNEDL3Ad5RxPHNxII383yLcKsTTHy36JLVHx9dJRGfRuUE9iMBK4/s1600/154069625.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJXg8OsdauV1qEO0U3EqpyUiqQvsuGb73EUmXG4I4cmPdNbacSMdyXPyBU4ZEyXiNhYt0QS2JpqjBFI6Bqe-SqJ4jlNEDL3Ad5RxPHNxII383yLcKsTTHy36JLVHx9dJRGfRuUE9iMBK4/s400/154069625.jpg" height="305" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>1 – </b>Understand that until the addict is actually ready to
quit using drugs or alcohol, that you will be unable to help them. When it
comes to addiction, the most effective weapon is empathy, compassion and a
healthy dose of love. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>2 –</b> Educate yourself on the type of drug to which your loved
one is addicted. Possessing an understanding of the effects this substance
offers may provide you with the tools necessary to break through the addict’s
wall. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>3 –</b> Research outreach programs that cater to friends and
family members of addicted individuals. An array of organizations are
available. Once again… By taking the time to educate yourself on the issue, you
will stand a better chance of being able to help you loved one through their
ordeal. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>4 –</b> Communicate your concerns to the addict. Allow them to
understand that they are not alone in their suffering, and that help is being
made available to them. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>5 – </b>Contact a Rehab Specialist today.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-47746603406873540902013-01-09T10:10:00.001-08:002014-03-28T09:26:05.142-07:00How To Squash Your Loved One’s Meth Addiction<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Crystal Meth is an extremely dangerous, addictive and common
narcotic throughout the U.S. The drug causes increased blood pressure, rapid
heart rate and damage to blood vessels in the brain. A loved one suffering from
a crystal meth addiction is never easy to stomach. With enough time, users can
become delusional, paranoid and violent. In order to properly address the
addiction, a great deal of love, care and organization is required. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Sm5-ZOS2lBEw0YFMokNLXuvY4DUfL3d2hoiqHt5KpZMCccOdDWabZElBE0FCjrC11UBb8aB8mhKURFAuhejOxZ2m8SgO7EzGqW0wHmjeRYEVwk4A11nPS_Nba4a5Ob4qDvqbSxmO900/s1600/101203144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Sm5-ZOS2lBEw0YFMokNLXuvY4DUfL3d2hoiqHt5KpZMCccOdDWabZElBE0FCjrC11UBb8aB8mhKURFAuhejOxZ2m8SgO7EzGqW0wHmjeRYEVwk4A11nPS_Nba4a5Ob4qDvqbSxmO900/s400/101203144.jpg" height="258" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>1 – </b>Educate yourself on the effects of crystal meth. Seek
out information online and at your local library. Find an area support group to
communicate your worry with others who have dealt with similar situations.
Approaching the issue will not be easy, but by taking the time to arm yourself
with knowledge, you will stand a better chance of making an impact. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>2 –</b> Sit your loved one down and discuss your concerns in a
rational, calm and loving manner. Avoid blame and finger pointing, as these
actions will only cause resentment and anger. Ask them if they are open to the
idea of professional help to address the addiction. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>3 –</b> Seek out a qualified therapist with experience working
with addicts. This individual will be able to help you and your family to cope
with the behaviors of the addict. Your therapist will also be able to help
address any feelings of guilt you may have regarding the addiction. If you are
intent on helping your loved one, you must first help yourself. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>4 –</b> Plan an intervention. Professional intervention services will be able to guide you through the process, while
keeping participants focused and engaged. During the intervention, each
participant will be provided an opportunity to express their concern to the
addict while encouraging them to seek help. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Seek help today...tomorrow isn't guaranteed. </b></div>
</div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-24433280645182199982012-12-24T09:54:00.000-08:002012-12-24T09:54:00.099-08:00The Healing Process – Love After Addiction<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0X8nJcOhCIkquFSDrS9JnkZnyKIvlYOHDLiixweFyiJP0nKyZQp7JYyiRwTR8_af8nl5BeeKspog27T6T5ArwEjGK5vBDq12RElg47I83Pnakzot9bK2QJBW4XfAKiQjHRaS72hMqlLg/s1600/147993487.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0X8nJcOhCIkquFSDrS9JnkZnyKIvlYOHDLiixweFyiJP0nKyZQp7JYyiRwTR8_af8nl5BeeKspog27T6T5ArwEjGK5vBDq12RElg47I83Pnakzot9bK2QJBW4XfAKiQjHRaS72hMqlLg/s400/147993487.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Healing a relationship following addiction is no easy task.
Difficulties will vary from couple to couple, alongside developed issues and
the residual pain caused by them. Being involved in a relationship affected by
addiction can be difficult to bounce back from, especially when maintaining a
recovery. In this entry, we will offer tips to help you regain the trust lost. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 – Communicate with your partner. Though it may seem cliché
and redundant advice, it does not change its importance. Communication is key
to ANY relationship – addiction or no. Expressing yourself alongside fears and
troubles lets your partner know that you are being honest with them. As an
addict, you likely know how the small things can snowball into something much
bigger… Put a stop to them before they can escalate. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 – Be honest. Keep in mind that your relationship is still
fragile, and that any lie – no matter how “white” – holds the potential for
irreparable damage. When attempting to heal a wounded relationship, it’s
crucial that you take ownership for your infractions quickly. If your partner
feels the need to check up on your whereabouts of behaviors, provide her with
the ability to do so. Understand that your partner will likely require more
than your word in order to trust you again. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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3 – Listen! Providing your partner with an open forum to
express their emotions without fear of anger or judgment will go a long way in
aiding the repair process. Understand that your actions have had an affect on
those who care about you most. Let them vent, scream and cry, while comforting
them without argument or excuse. Nit picking can wait. If someone is willing to
stand by throughout your recovery, they are owed the same attention and love
they provide. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-72526238135308685232012-12-22T09:50:00.000-08:002012-12-22T09:50:00.146-08:00Do You Know the Dangers Of Salvia?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Salvia Divinorum, or Salvia - as it is more commonly know -
is a natural herbaceous perennial plant producing white colored flowers during
peak summer months. In recent years, experimental drug users and teens have
utilized the leaves of the Salvia plant to achieve an altered mental state.
Because the drug is still legal in the U.S. and most countries around the
world, these leaves are often grown and sold in local health food stores
without restriction. In this entry, we will take a closer look at this plant to
help our readers gain a broader perspective of its effects and dangers. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLJ1gnq2YnLM0Tas5y3NR5NW_VOuvm_6nQBNOCO8btNCZar6ZNy0BD4ulVnsr-_x1vaJzbWFsnxMiBq36gPghvpZAqPSbKOkSZ02iOqTqfwk-f-dMk13JYrLI1uIFnuEvqfvIdHW0C-E/s1600/56400343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLJ1gnq2YnLM0Tas5y3NR5NW_VOuvm_6nQBNOCO8btNCZar6ZNy0BD4ulVnsr-_x1vaJzbWFsnxMiBq36gPghvpZAqPSbKOkSZ02iOqTqfwk-f-dMk13JYrLI1uIFnuEvqfvIdHW0C-E/s400/56400343.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>What Does It Do? </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Though commonly smoked, salvia users can chew the plant to
achieve the same effect. The drug affects users differently according to body
weight, body chemistry, and whether or not additional substances are involved.
The effects of salvia are instant in most users, affecting the brain’s parietal
lobe, limbic system and overall vestibular function. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Physical Effects</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Salvinorin-A – a substance found in salvia – is known to
cause psychoactive side effects. Some users may faint, pass out, or lose their
ability to function until the drug has worn off. Some users report bright
lights of visions; others a loss in basic motor skills. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Psychiatric Dangers</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Those who have suffered or currently suffer from various
forms of mental illness may experience relapse following salvia intake. The
drug has been shown to trigger episodes of schizophrenia, panic attacks and
borderline personality traits. Though most of these symptoms tend to subside as
the drug wears off, some users place themselves at risk for more prolonged
episodes. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
</div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-91673970389108320122012-12-17T09:31:00.000-08:002012-12-17T09:31:35.643-08:00Don’t have a stroke, K?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Is drug and alcohol abuse to blame for early life strokes? A
recent study suggests so! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A stroke is a condition where an individual’s brain cells
expire due to lack of oxygen. Direct causes may include artery rupture or a
blood flow obstruction. Those who experience strokes may lose their ability to
speak, encounter memory issues or partial paralysis. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Though many often associate strokes with the elderly, new
research suggests a direct correlation between heightened stroke risk in
younger people and the abuse of drugs and/or alcohol.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNrGcRJFpt0RS8NDgL81Z8_xYs33VkZq9RoV4Xi2XTHObby_jclB8JzRCix01xKeYJ6rwnsFYFDTeXP61ALuylNbCePd3_ltFKLtRXWvaa0jEiTFKnvGD5AmxlQTpWjKsT7YZ7fyHUaE/s1600/78397320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNrGcRJFpt0RS8NDgL81Z8_xYs33VkZq9RoV4Xi2XTHObby_jclB8JzRCix01xKeYJ6rwnsFYFDTeXP61ALuylNbCePd3_ltFKLtRXWvaa0jEiTFKnvGD5AmxlQTpWjKsT7YZ7fyHUaE/s320/78397320.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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“Substance abuse is common in young adults experiencing a
stroke,” wrote researcher Brett Kissela. With this point in mind, it is
recommended that stroke sufferers aged 55 and younger be screened and potentially
counseled for substance abuse issues. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Certain substances, such as methamphetamine's and cocaine
have been found to heighten the risks associated of a more immediate stroke.
“We know that even with vascular risk factors that are prevalent – smoking,
high blood pressure… most people still don’t have a stroke until they’re
older”, stated University of California neurologist Andrew Josephson. “When a
young person has a stroke, it is probably much more likely that the cause of
their stroke is something other than traditional risk factors.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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Though an array of factors can be attributed to heightened
stroke risks, perhaps drug and alcohol abuse should be considered the most
avoidable. In the grand scheme of things, there are plenty more ways to celebrate,
indulgences to consume, and sensations to experience in the days, weeks, months
and years to come. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Choose your vices wisely. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-24177655879954048282012-12-11T08:52:00.000-08:002014-03-28T09:27:33.972-07:00When Is An Alcohol Intervention Necessary?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr0iyWVR4u25KlqmM9XbVWccfIq6ebiwAtXoYe6XLYvitZO1xRMvs7YrdCyQ_WtDHSExdV6ifsy9uj7oFmJBDXLsl41YymEoDXmlUOPojrcSQ0iqTgR8YwdXPsv9-G4gYL_HFK4cdd2LA/s1600/86523232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr0iyWVR4u25KlqmM9XbVWccfIq6ebiwAtXoYe6XLYvitZO1xRMvs7YrdCyQ_WtDHSExdV6ifsy9uj7oFmJBDXLsl41YymEoDXmlUOPojrcSQ0iqTgR8YwdXPsv9-G4gYL_HFK4cdd2LA/s400/86523232.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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When it comes to addiction, it can be difficult to determine
the best route when considering potential recovery options. In some cases, it
may be necessary to confront the addict by way of intervention. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Interventions are orchestrated attempts by close friends and
family members to get a loved one the help they require to properly address an
addiction to negative and destructive behaviors. If you are considering the
possibility of an intervention for a friend or relative, the guide below will
provide you with some tips to help determine the best course of action. <o:p></o:p></div>
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1 – Verify the exact ailment your loved one is suffering
from. Before you can properly address an issue, you must first be able to
determine the exact problem. With alcoholism, you should look for the following
behaviors: Daily drinking, irritability, mood swings, missed work, and strained
relationships are all common points to look for. <o:p></o:p></div>
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2 – Determine whether the individual is willing to seek help
on their own. An intervention should be used only as a last resort. If your
loved one recognizes the issue before them and is willing to accept help, then
there will be no need for an intervention. If your loved one is interested in
getting help, provide them with all the support you can muster. <o:p></o:p></div>
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3 – Discuss your concerns with close friends and family
members of the individual to see whether anyone else shares your viewpoint. If
you find a number of other people to validate these concerns, it may be time to
seriously consider an intervention. <o:p></o:p></div>
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4 – Get in touch with a professional interventionist. Intervention specialists can aid throughout the planning, organization, and
implementation of an intervention. Communicate your concerns and worries to the
specialist while listening to what they have to say regarding a potential
coarse of action. If your specialist deems an intervention necessary, then it’s
time to move forward with an intervention plan. <o:p></o:p></div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-36830263449155032372012-11-20T12:41:00.000-08:002014-03-28T09:28:02.717-07:00Intervention Tips & Strategies<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtblbA_9HOqW2HsGmtWFurgF0olkU_Qf6fcFxmSa2zdPq_w3IMhrjF2ZpB9QYAjtl3iiljTzDzGYeGPpbV7OP8U4yIbrSHMm3gOrNctZKmFyIaou5iwikPpJMaVTwvhUkBTSJHOfjTbnY/s1600/100658170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtblbA_9HOqW2HsGmtWFurgF0olkU_Qf6fcFxmSa2zdPq_w3IMhrjF2ZpB9QYAjtl3iiljTzDzGYeGPpbV7OP8U4yIbrSHMm3gOrNctZKmFyIaou5iwikPpJMaVTwvhUkBTSJHOfjTbnY/s400/100658170.jpg" height="258" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you have a loved one suffering from an addiction, finding
them consistently under the influence can be painful. Though the idea of an
intervention may seem a bit extreme to some; it is a positive way to help your
loved on understand the extent of their issues while working towards a positive
outcome for all involved. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<strong>Friends and Family<o:p></o:p></strong></div>
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Make sure to include close friends and family members of the
addict. Though it can be difficult to get everyone on the same page, the potential
for a positive outcome will be heightened with a unified group. Participants
should be supportive, loving, and compassionate throughout the process, with an
end goal of getting the subject the help they require. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<strong>Professional Help<o:p></o:p></strong></div>
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Intervention services are always a huge help to friends and family members
throughout this process. A trained interventionist will be able to help
organize, plan, and moderate the intervention, while serving as authoritarian,
educator and mediator. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<strong>Denial<o:p></o:p></strong></div>
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Some addicts may not realize that they even have a problem.
These individuals have fallen into the routine of addiction, where their
perception of normality has become skewed. This denial must be broken if the
addict is to alter their behaviors and seek help. In order to break through
this barrier, intervention participants must offer real life examples of how
the addiction has negatively affected their lives, and the life of the addict. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<strong>Blame – Anger – Shame<o:p></o:p></strong></div>
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Blame, anger and shame should each be avoided throughout the
intervention process. Participants are encouraged to disregard these emotions
and feelings during the intervention while embracing empathy, compassion, and
love. The more positive friends and family members are towards the situation,
the better chance there will be for a happy result. <o:p></o:p></div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-58708318207251437592012-11-15T13:49:00.001-08:002014-03-28T09:28:26.929-07:00Staging An Intervention – A How-To Guide<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGgmqlWdw2igdxiDrPgSLH4rNK-35rS0R0iPrrxJXu91wOxtugVvPh4cISXIrOFCkx_5ssjh3juRChHs2SKIm5ZsuKkynw_of2OLndp-1QGyTUIz-Tre0mMYx6yMhuzQ9hMcHFi9lXX0/s1600/93559674.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtGgmqlWdw2igdxiDrPgSLH4rNK-35rS0R0iPrrxJXu91wOxtugVvPh4cISXIrOFCkx_5ssjh3juRChHs2SKIm5ZsuKkynw_of2OLndp-1QGyTUIz-Tre0mMYx6yMhuzQ9hMcHFi9lXX0/s400/93559674.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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Planning an intervention is a wonderful means of offering
help to someone who is struggling with addiction issues. When uncertainty comes
into play, seeking the aid of a trained interventionist may provide you with
the support and guidance you need to ensure a happy outcome. Intervention services are able to offer experience and organizational
skills, while helping participants understand what to expect throughout the
process. <o:p></o:p></div>
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1 – Get in touch with treatment facilities that offer
services that cater to the type of help the individual requires. Different
programs will often specialize in different areas As such, it’s important to
locate a facility that understands and is able to provide the type of treatment
needed. <o:p></o:p></div>
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2 – Communication is key. Prior to the intervention, be sure
to meet with all participants, including the interventionist to discuss exactly
how the event will be handled. It is important for each participant to be on
the same page; acting as a unified force, rather than individually. <o:p></o:p></div>
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3 – Select a location, date and time that works for the
majority of your participants. Though it can be difficult to accommodate
everybody’s schedules, it’s important to understand that this process has
little to do with convenience; this is life or death. <o:p></o:p></div>
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4 – Invite only those who are respected and loved by the
individual struggling. This should include individuals who understand the
severity of the issue at hand, and who are interested in working towards a
positive outcome. <o:p></o:p></div>
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5 – Stay focused. Stay Positive. A dark, accusatory, and
dreary atmosphere will do little to alter your addict’s behaviors. Going into
the intervention with a helping of love, compassion, and understanding will
work to break down the addict’s defenses, while working to better than chances
of a positive response. Leave your blame, anger, and other baggage at the door.
Understand that regardless of the addict’s decision following the intervention,
that a positive and healthy change is underway for you, and everyone else
involved. <o:p></o:p></div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-24424726030003424532012-11-14T09:04:00.000-08:002014-03-28T09:28:42.776-07:00How To Write An Intervention Letter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC4a_Qe4dmV_hcLgyGx5RlA7GZi1XI7TTZigFd4TFfsnznIHJ7LcDB-ppMLCrjMb1Q8DbKYrPOVohFInYKNPH3gWXbtsH7R2hy1_F9srPjWfryB5T7S6yOx4l1d3XHKYIsdyL5mEZ-SCI/s1600/86497674.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC4a_Qe4dmV_hcLgyGx5RlA7GZi1XI7TTZigFd4TFfsnznIHJ7LcDB-ppMLCrjMb1Q8DbKYrPOVohFInYKNPH3gWXbtsH7R2hy1_F9srPjWfryB5T7S6yOx4l1d3XHKYIsdyL5mEZ-SCI/s400/86497674.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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An intervention letter is something written by a loved one
to a person struggling with substance abuse or some other self-destructive
behavior. During a drug intervention, the subject is invited to a specific and neutral
location, where family and friends have come together for the express purpose
of communicating their concern and love for the individual. Each participant
writes out and reads aloud a letter of their own, with a request that the
subject seek help. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>1 – </b>Begin your letter with an affirmation of affection or
love for the individual. Write out a few line recalling happy times, specific
events, and special instances that were shared in a positive manner between you
and the recipient. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>2 –</b> Cite specific incidents that involve negative behaviors
as exhibited by the individual when under the influence. Detail your anger,
hurt, and embarrassment. If the intervention subject happens to be your spouse,
you may want to include details pertaining to how these behaviors have
negatively impacted the relationship and children. Avoid exaggerations, and
stick to the facts, leaving little room for argument.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>3 –</b> Request that the individual accept the help being
offered. Outline consequences that will take place if help is not sought. Be
specific and firm: “If you don’t seek treatment today, this marriage is over.”
Provide them only with consequences that you are actually able to enforce. Close
your letter with a statement of affection and love, while making a final appeal
for the subject to seek help. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>4 –</b> Perhaps the most important aspect of any intervention
letter is honesty. Avoid accusatory language that may drive the individual
inward. So long has each incident can be described in detail, there is no
reason to sugar-coat the reality of the situation. <o:p></o:p></div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-61310823050389048382012-11-14T09:00:00.000-08:002014-03-28T09:29:05.148-07:00Family Intervention – A How-To Guide<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQd55FucOk3Sciyy9U5nLvdUB6pO32s6FQx6km-oVH7mVp0AE_QvmTUTvjoNTPXYXdGYeIoEsTAI_qz6XWfA2nmRnrOEUrg8NlMEqPk5Ps06Yq5yuSNKViboQbqPWhFODPywHD57dokQ/s1600/78377799.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQd55FucOk3Sciyy9U5nLvdUB6pO32s6FQx6km-oVH7mVp0AE_QvmTUTvjoNTPXYXdGYeIoEsTAI_qz6XWfA2nmRnrOEUrg8NlMEqPk5Ps06Yq5yuSNKViboQbqPWhFODPywHD57dokQ/s400/78377799.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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Each and every family keeps its own unique dynamic; the
specifics of which are largely dependent upon the personalities of the members
within. When a single member is struggling with a particularly difficult
obstacle, it is crucial to rally around that person to help ensure a positive
and successful outcome. In this entry, we will discuss how to properly plan and
implement a family requested intervention with a healthy dose of love, care and forethought. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Instructions<o:p></o:p></div>
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1 – Plan ahead. Get in touch with the individual’s close
friends and family members well in advance to ensure they are able to attend
the intervention. This will work to ensure that a strong and determined support
system is in attendance once the intervention is unveiled. <o:p></o:p></div>
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2 – Contact a professional interventionist to organize and
moderate the event. These individuals can help direct you throughout the
planning process, while serving as an authoritarian figure during the actual
intervention. Dealing with an intervention can be stressful enough without the
burden of catering to everybody else’s concerns and questions. An
interventionist will be able to ease these stresses, while asserting a dominant
role outside of the family dynamic. <o:p></o:p></div>
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3 – Make certain that the individual in question will be at
the designated meeting spot at the specified time. When requesting their
attendance, you may be forced to be a little vague… but know that this serves
only the greater good. Long story short, do not tell your loved one about the
upcoming intervention! <o:p></o:p></div>
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4 – Hold the intervention. Provide each participant the
opportunity to communicate their concerns with love, respect, and confidence.
Avoid any blame, negativity or personal character attacks. Remember that the
point of the intervention is to help, not hurt. <o:p></o:p></div>
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5 – Do your best to reach a positive outcome. Whether the
individual agrees to treatment, rehab, or another serious lifestyle change, the
goal should always be to leave the intervention in a better position than prior
to it. <o:p></o:p></div>
Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2600584391189673833.post-78986791034716687542012-09-26T08:00:00.004-07:002012-09-26T08:01:10.174-07:00Addictions to BeatBelow is a list compiled of the hardest drugs to get quit:<br />
<br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">7.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><a class="ext" href="http://www.peele.net/lib/cocaine.html" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration: underline; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" target="_blank">Cocaine</a><span class="ext" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; background-image: url(http://rsrc.psychologytoday.com/sites/all/modules/contrib/extlink/extlink.png); background-position: 100% 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; color: black; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; padding-right: 12px; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><a class="pt-basics-link" href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/conditions/cocaine" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; border-bottom-color: rgb(153, 153, 153); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" title="Psychology Today looks at Cocaine">Cocaine</a><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>is an episodic-use drug. It is one moreover associated with certain lifestyles - at one time (if not now) people in the financial industry and entertainment fields - and more often younger people. Studying long-term users of cocaine, Ronald Siegel found most moderated, controlled, or quit their use over time. Patricia Erickson and Bruce Alexander surveyed the research and found that fewer than 10 percent of cocaine addicts continued their addictions for substantial periods. After cocaine use peaked in the 1980s, most middle-class users quit (although use in inner cities continued some time longer). Remarking on this phenomenon, David Musto concluded: "The question we must ask ourselves is not why people take<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><a class="pt-basics-link" href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/basics/psychopharmacology" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; border-bottom-color: rgb(153, 153, 153); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" title="Psychology Today looks at Psychopharmacology">drugs</a><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">, but why do people stop." He surmised that people with fewer resources had less to counterbalance their addictions.</span><br />
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6.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a class="ext" href="http://www.peele.net/lib/consequences.html" style="color: #333333; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Alcohol</a><span class="ext" style="background-image: url(http://rsrc.psychologytoday.com/sites/all/modules/contrib/extlink/extlink.png); background-position: 100% 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; padding-right: 12px;"></span>. Alcohol is the<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a class="pt-basics-link" href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/basics/addiction" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(153, 153, 153); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; color: #333333; text-decoration: none;" title="Psychology Today looks at Addiction">addiction</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>most written about, both in scientific literature and as recounted in personal memoirs. Alcoholics Anonymous members swear AA is the only way to recover; treatment experts claim alcoholism is inescapable without treatment. But epidemiological research does not find this is true. The National Institute on<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a class="pt-basics-link" href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/conditions/alcohol-abuse" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(153, 153, 153); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; color: #333333; text-decoration: none;" title="Psychology Today looks at Alcohol Abuse">Alcohol Abuse</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>and Alcoholism in 2005 published the results of its National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions. NESARC conducted 43,000 face-to-face interviews with a sample of Americans about their lifetime alcohol and drug use. Among these, 4,422 were classifiable at some point in their lives as alcohol dependent (or alcoholic). Somewhat more than a quarter had received any kind of treatment (including in an emergency room, attending AA, etc.). Among the large majority who went untreated, fewer than a quarter drank alcoholically at the time of the interview. Most (about two-thirds) of this group continued drinking non-alcoholically.</div>
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5. Valium. In general, drugs used for pacifying purposes (which are usually depressants), taken regularly over long periods of time, are hard to quit. This holds for<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a class="pt-basics-link" href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/conditions/sedatives" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(153, 153, 153); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; color: #333333; text-decoration: none;" title="Psychology Today looks at Sedatives">sedatives</a>,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a class="pt-basics-link" href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/basics/sleep" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(153, 153, 153); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; color: #333333; text-decoration: none;" title="Psychology Today looks at Sleep">sleeping</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>pills, barbiturates, and tranquilizers. Several best-sellers have been written about the difficulty in quitting Valium (benzodiazepine tranquilizers): Barbara Gordon's<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><i>I'm Dancing as Fast as I Can<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></i>and Betty Ford's<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><i>The Times of My Life</i>. A prominent New York City newscaster, Jim Jensen, recounted in<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><i>People</i>how he readily quit cocaine but couldn't get off Valium: "Valium withdrawal soon plunged him into a massive depression that left him unable to eat or sleep. It took two more months in two hospitals for him to regain his mental and physical health." Ah, but Americans love these drugs, need them to survive - although in good part they have been supplanted by antidepressants.</div>
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4.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a class="ext" href="http://www.peele.net/lib/moa1.html" style="color: #333333; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Heroin</a><span class="ext" style="background-image: url(http://rsrc.psychologytoday.com/sites/all/modules/contrib/extlink/extlink.png); background-position: 100% 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; padding-right: 12px;"></span>. Powerful analgesics, taken regularly, are difficult for many (but not most) people to quit. After all, most of us have had intravenous supplies of narcotics in the hospital, followed by prescriptions for powerful analgesics when we went home. What is remarkable is not so much that heroin can produce serious withdrawal for some, but how variable this syndrome is and how comparable it is to other depressant and painkiller drugs and analgesics (like Vicodin and OxyContin), which are the fastest growing drugs of abuse and today are taken by the majority of illicit narcotics users and overdose victims. So much has been written about heroin withdrawal, it is mainly worth noting that when people quit the drug with little difficulty (as the major league ballplayer Ron LeFlore did when he entered prison and took up baseball) it is simply considered impermissible to describe or portray this aspect of their stories.</div>
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3.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/addiction-in-society/200812/stuck-in-the-mud-de-nial-or-harm-reducer-in-chief-barack-obama-stil" style="color: #333333; text-decoration: underline;">Cigarettes</a>. In ratings by cocaine and alcohol addicts,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a class="pt-basics-link" href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/basics/smoking" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(153, 153, 153); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; color: #333333; text-decoration: none;" title="Psychology Today looks at Smoking">smoking</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>is regularly cited as the more difficult drug to quit, generally on par with or more difficult than heroin. Nonetheless, more than 40 million living Americans have quit smoking. While impressive, this still only represents about half of all of those ever addicted to cigarettes - although a higher percentage of those in higher socioeconomic groups have quit. When I speak to recovering people at addiction conferences I ask, "What is the toughest drug to quit?" By acclimation, the audience shouts out, "cigarettes" or "smoking." I then ask, "How many people in this room have been addicted to cigarettes but are now off them?" Half to two-thirds - often hundreds of people - in the room raise their hands. "Wow," I enthuse. "And how many have used any kind of<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a class="pt-basics-link" href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/basics/psychotherapy" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(153, 153, 153); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; color: #333333; text-decoration: none;" title="Psychology Today looks at Psychotherapy">therapy</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>- medical or a support group - to quit?" Never have more than a small handful done so.</div>
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2. Potato chips. I use potato chips, of course, to stand for all kinds of alluring but fattening foods. These comfort foods, which deprive more Americans of life years than any other substance, are inextricably integrated with our own lives, and with the lives of all Americans. Although overweight is disapproved and regularly lectured against, it still doesn't have the stigma of drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes, so that hidden (and not so hidden) food addictions are more readily tolerated. That gastric bypass surgery is growing so rapidly shows that this is the substance addiction people find hardest to quit, even those for whom it causes serious, life-threatening health conditions. In fact, we will never resolve our massive food addictions in the United States, but we hope to come up with medical cures to prevent their negative effects, as if we would succeed by simply deciding to let smokers continue to smoke noncancerous cigarettes.</div>
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1.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a class="ext" href="http://www.peele.net/lib/love.html" style="color: #333333; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Love</a><span class="ext" style="background-image: url(http://rsrc.psychologytoday.com/sites/all/modules/contrib/extlink/extlink.png); background-position: 100% 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; padding-right: 12px;"></span>. Ah, love is the hardest addiction to quit. It certainly causes more murders and suicides than any other addiction. And if you think people miss smoking, consider what people are like when they break up with long-time lovers or get divorced - even when they hate their spouses! (See the response to this post, "My<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a class="pt-basics-link" href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/basics/divorce" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(153, 153, 153); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; color: #333333; text-decoration: none;" title="Psychology Today looks at Divorce">divorce</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>has left me . . .") On the other hand, we read frequently about people who totally sacrificed their lives to a lover who betrayed them or otherwise destroyed their psyches, yet who still didn't quit the relationship - what is the answer, after all, when an abuse victim is asked why they simply don't leave an abusive spouse? "Because I love him, and can't live without him." I regularly counsel spouses of substance abusers about this.</div>
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Don't despair, however, no matter what your addiction is. The large majority of addicts<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/articles/pto-20040712-000003.html" style="color: #333333; text-decoration: underline;">give up every kind of addiction</a>. So can you. That most people do it, one way or another, tells you that it lies within your power.</div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 20px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> To read more on this article please follow this link to <a href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/addiction-in-society/200812/the-7-hardest-addictions-quit-love-is-the-worst">psychology today</a></span></span>Monica Rodriguezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08485506034433676721noreply@blogger.com0