Rise in Illicit Drug Use Findings

The SAMSHA website released Shocking News: Rise in Illicit Drug Use

Illicit Drug Use Increasing

The use of illicit drugs among Americans increased between 2008 and 2010, according to a national survey conducted by SAMHSA. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) shows that 22.6 million Americans age 12 or older (8.9 percent of the population) were current illicit drug users. The rate of use in 2010 was similar to the rate in 2009 (8.7 percent), but remained above the 2008 rate (8.0 percent). Another disturbing trend is the continuing rise in the rate of current illicit drug use among young adults age 18 to 25—from 19.6 percent in 2008 to 21.2 percent in 2009 and 21.5 percent in 2010. This increase was also driven in large part by a rise in the rate of current marijuana use among this population.

“We stand at a crossroads in our Nation’s efforts to prevent substance abuse and addiction,” said SAMHSA Administrator Pamela S. Hyde, J.D. “These statistics represent real lives that are at risk from the harmful and sometimes devastating effects of illicit drug use. This nation cannot afford to risk losing more individuals, families, and communities to illicit drugs or from other types of substance abuse—instead, we must do everything we can to effectively promote prevention, treatment, and recovery programs across our country.”

The annual NSDUH survey, released by SAMHSA at the kickoff of the 22nd annual National Recovery Month observance, is a scientifically conducted annual survey of approximately 67,500 people throughout the country, age 12 and older. Because of its statistical power, NSDUH is the Nation’s premier source of statistical information on the scope and nature of many behavioral health issues.

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From Crisis to Opportunity - Changing Our View

Your Future Never Looked Brighter!

After the storm - a beautiful rainbow appear

Recently I attended a conference for caregivers.  Caregivers labor sacrificially in the rudimentary care of loved ones who are losing physical and mental capacity.  Caregivers are the unsung heroes living in the shadows of the chronically ill. This conference was designed as a reminder for the caregiver to take care of themselves so they can better care for their loved one.

A motivational speaker began the day with a story:

A young student came home with a failing grade on a final exam.  Entering her home, she went to her mother sobbing.  Her mother asked her what was the matter.  The student showed her mother the exam with the "F" written at the top of the page.  Without skipping a beat the mother told her daughter, "Honey, your future never looked brighter!"   Confused at her mother's response the daughter said, "Mama, I failed the class and I need this class to graduate."  Her mother looked at her with hope in her eyes and said, "Darling, when you take the course over, you will be more prepared and ahead of all the other students.  You will surely do well.  Your future never looked brighter." 

It was at that moment that the mother took a negative situation and instilled hope in her daughter.  She did take the class over and she passed going on to graduate. 

When you are faced with a crisis, how do you view your situation? 

The east coast experienced tumultuous flooding and devastation due to the recent attack of Hurricane Irene.  My niece had a tree collapse through the roof of her home.  The tree split the roof in half and demolished many possessions including her computer.  

Can I say to her, "Your future never looked brighter?"  

Let's consider that thought.  Her house was an older home.  With her faithful homeowner's insurance payments, she is now entitled to receive a new roof and replacement of her valuable possessions with newer possessions.  She has not won the lottery, however, she will have her home repaired and it will be nicer than it was before the hurricane.

Changing our view of a crisis or setback to see the opportunity and good fortune will instill hope and inspire new goals.  

It has been said that failure is an event which does not need to control the future.  Are you letting failures hold you back?  It may be time to reframe your view of the failed event and see it as an opportuity.  Afterall, your future never looked brighter.

www.stages2change.com

Venus Williams Diagnosed with Sjogren's Syndrome

Take Care of Your Health

Today the news reported that tennis star Venus Williams has dropped out of the US Open Tennis Match due to complications from an autoimmune disease.  Venus is 31 years old and has a systemic disease called Sjogren's Syndrome.   You may be wondering, what is Sjogren's Syndrome?

Venus Williams in jumper at Wimbledon earlier this year.

Sjorgren's Syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease where the white blood cells attack the moisture producing glands.  It is estimated that over 4 million people -primarily women - have Sjogren's Syndrome in the United States.  
This disease is characterized by dry mouth and eyes, aching joint and muscle pain, overwhelming fatigue and arthritis.

The reason this news story has interest for me is because my mother had Sjorgren's Syndrome.  I watched as Mama's doctors ignored her bodily complaints over the years - telling her it was all in her imagination.  Finally, through a National Institutes of Health research program she was officially diagnosed with Sjogren's Syndrome and able to receive the medical care and support she needed.

If you or someone you love has Sjogren's Syndrome there is help available. The Sjogren's Syndrome Foundation has a website that is a useful resource http://www.sjogrens.org/

My Mama, Helen Beery

When you are not happy with a doctor's diagnoses it is ok and important to visit another doctor and get a second opinion.  
I learned the importance of a second opinion in 1997 when I had a cancer diagnose.  My original doctor was able to diagnose the cancer.  However, he did not diagnose the full extent of the cancer.  If I had only followed his treatment plan, the cancer would have returned and I may not be here.  Receiving a second opinion I learned that I was in Stage 2 Cancer and would require a full regimen of treatment to eradicate the cancer.  I was able to recovery, remarry and have a second child - all after the cancer. 

Keep in mind your body belongs to you.  How you care for and treat your body is your decision.  
As a person enters into recovery from an addiction, they may notice all sorts of body aches and pains that they were unaware of before.  Getting a good physical is an important first step in taking care of yourself.  My mother passed away 6 years ago tomorrow. She was only 70 years old.  If she understood her disease and was able to receive an early diagnose she might be alive today.  

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Relapse: Become Aware of the Seven Triggers

Relapse: When a Thought Becomes an Action

Imagine yourself sitting in the movie theater and an advertisement for a refreshing coca cola and box of salty popcorn flashes on the screen.  You had not planned to visit the concession stand.  The thought of having a cold drink and some popcorn is now in your mind.  

The power of suggestion turns into an action.

You tell yourself that the movie won't start for five more minutes.  You get out of your seat and walk out to the concession stand and purchase a coca cola and popcorn.  This is an example of how the power of suggestion works. Seeing the popcorn image on the screen triggered a desire to eat some popcorn and drink a cold drink.  Triggers begin as a thought or suggestion which turns into an action.  

Staying sober and one day choosing to use again is called "relapsing."  A relapse is a common aspect of recovery.  When an addict has a relapse and returns to their recovery path they can become stronger in their recovery as they will realize they are powerless over their addiction.  Relapse starts with a trigger which begins the thinking about using.  The thinking about using, gives birth to the action of using or relapsing. 

There are seven triggers that can stimulate the urge to use. 

The seven triggers are:

* people

* places

* things

* events

* activities

* feelings

* physical health

People - When a person is actively using drugs and alcohol they typically have people around them that they either use with or supply them.  Once you are on the path to recovery, the people you spend time with may need to change.   As you begin to recover, spend time with people who are supportive of your new life of recovery.  

Places may trigger the desire to use drugs.

Places - Perhaps you are in the habit of going to the local bar for a burger after work or the casino with friends. Certain places will be reminders of using drugs and alcohol.  It will be important for you to avoid these places especially as you begin recovery and learn how to relax without using drugs or alcohol.
Things - Possessions can be reminders of using drugs and alcohol.  What is in a person's home reveals how they spend their time.  If you have bongs on the coffee table, subscribe to High Times, use tin foil in the kitchen, have a special drinking glass or a liquor cabinet, you may need to replace these items in order to remain on the recovery path.

Events - Celebrations such as weddings, New Year's Eve, July 4th, Super Bowl Sunday, and birthdays may have be times of drinking and using drugs. Learning to attend these events and stay sober will take time.  You may need to decline invitations as you learn how to make healthy choices in recovery.

Activities and habits - Perhaps you are the type of person who would come home after work and pour yourself a drink or light up a blunt.  Maybe on dates you would order wine with your meal.  Attending sporting events, concerts, cook-outs, weddings and girls night out may have been times of partying and using.  It may be helpful to begin new activities and habits as you walk on the recovery path.

Feelings -  Emotional times may stir the thought of using drugs or alcohol.  Learning how to handle feelings in sobriety is a new skill.  Having a sober coach, mentor or sponsor to call when you are feeling like using again is one way to grow stronger in managing feelings on your path of recovery. 

Physical health - Bodily aches, an onset of a disease, old injuries, tooth pain, headaches, broken bones, and surgery are all opportunities to return to using.  It is possible that the doctor will prescribe a new drug that could be addictive.  Being aware that taking care of your health with exercise, proper nutrition and rest will help combat the risk of using when your body is weakened. It is important to discuss with your health provider your addiction history.

Triggers will come.  It is important to be aware of each trigger.  You may want to keep a journal writing down your personal triggers and how you will handle triggers when they come.  Having a written plan is one way of maintaining a successful recovery.

To learn more about recovery check out our web site:

www.stages2change.com

Three Benefits of Developing a Routine

Living a Structured Life 

Summer is over and the school year is beginning.  Parents are shopping for school supplies, considering what to put into lunchboxes and replacing last year's jeans.

The first day of school brings a new routine.

Children and parents are adjusting their lives to a new fall routine.  When a person enters a rehab - one of the first things they are hit with is a daily routine.  Gone are the days of leisurely sleeping in, lounging in pjs until mid-afternoon and watching late night television.  Specialists in recovery have learned that living a structured life brings order and aids recovery.  What are the benefits of having a routine in recovery?

Three benefits of developing a routine:

 

1. Relaxation - A routine teaches boundaries and encourages a simple and relaxed day.  Without a routine, lives are lived without boundaries.  Expectations are unclear. A routine organizes a day and brings a sense of accomplishment.

2.  Values - A routine promotes values. A structured day allows a person to plan and do the things each day that are important.  For example, scheduling a daily quiet time, walk around the block or time to read can promote the values of spirituality, exercise and intellectual stimulation.

3.  Peace - A routine provides peace. During times of drama, reverting to a familiar and comfortable routine will decrease stress. 

Whoever thinks a routine is boring or steals creativity has not experienced the benefits of a daily structure.  Creativity can flourish within a structured and routine life. 

"Idle time is the devil's workshop" is an old English proverb ("Hand-Book of Proverbs" by H.G. Bohn).  Idle time allows a person to imagine problems that may not exist.  When a mind is busy with projects at work or school it is occupied and there is less time to worry over problems.  A routine brings about a healthy and happy life through the predictable structure and daily accomplishment of valued activities.

www.stages2change.com

Four Tips to Help an Addict Change

Helping an Addict Change

Families, friends and counselors often are frustrated in waiting and watching for an addict to change.  The addict promises to do things differently and may even attempt to live without drugs . . . only to find they fall deeper into the addictive cycle.  Loved ones may lose hope and want to give up on the addict.  

Before a loved one quits on the addict, be aware that there is hope. There is a path to help an addict change and it begins with you.  To help an addict change, you must educate yourself on addiction. 

Here are four tips to help an addict change.  These tips are written for you - the family, friend, counselor and loved one.  They are designed to increase your awareness so you can understand the addict's reality and struggle to take the first step toward healthy change. 

Four tips to help an addict change:

First - Be aware that most addicts will underestimate their substance use.  They may be in denial. Denial is not lying. An addict in denial actually believes what they say about their relationship with drugs and alcohol.  Denial is when an addict is not aware of the seriousness or consequences of their substance abuse. 

Second - Be aware that many substance abusers will require medication to manage the physical dependence as they withdraw.  In order to detox, an addict may require medical assistance to ensure a safe withdrawal.

Third - Be aware of self medication.  Frequently an addict is suffering from a co-occurring disorder.  In other words, there may be an underlying reason an addict is using substances and they may be self medicating through the use of  drugs and alcohol.  These underlying reasons such as anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, major depression, paranoia, schizophrenia, post traumatic stress disorder may require a psychological evaluation and the use of medication to stabilize an addict so they can have a successful recovery.   

Fourth - Be aware that abstinence is the desired outcome for the addict and as the addict chooses to change they may experience set backs or a relapse which is a brief return to using substances.

Walking the path of recovery is not meant to be done alone.

To help an addict change it is important to use a nonjudgmental and supportive approach.  Guide the addict to consider the consequences of past and continued abuse of substances. 

Patience and longsuffering are required as the family and friends join the path of recovery alongside an addict.  Family and friends benefit from attending Alanon, Celebrate Recovery or a Family Education group to learn more about recovery, find supportive relationships and share their personal struggles.

Remember there is hope and hope is the lifeblood of longsuffering.

To talk with a counselor or learn more check out our webpage:  www.stages2change.com

 

Recovery is Surrendering One Step at a Time

Patiently Waiting for Change to Happen - "Let Go and Let God"

"Recovery comes from planting our 

determination into the soil of circumstance 

and  waiting patiently for the results." 

Jerry Brecheisen

Life today moves fast.  I place a frozen tray of food into the microwave for five minutes and speak to the microwave, "Hurry up!" I am impatient for change to happen. I live in an "instant response" world and I want recovery NOW!

Recovery comes one step at a time

Am I forgetting something?  How long did it take for me to get in this mess?  Was it a day?  Was it a week?  No, it was a series of poor choices over a long period of time.  Step by step I created my life mess.   

I was watching the A&E show on Hoarders last night.  This elderly woman loved dolls. The dolls brought her joy.  She would laugh when she looked into a doll's smiling and innocent face.  She loved dolls so much that one day she began to collect them.  Every time she was at the store, she would purchase a doll.  In time, her entire house was full of dolls.  She could not even sit in a chair, because the dolls were everywhere.  The doll obsession had become so overtaking that this dear woman had to have an intervention.  

A counselor and a professional organizer came to help her bring her life back into balance.  They were able to involve her in the process of donating the dolls to charity.  She had so many dolls it took several trucks to haul the dolls away.  

It all started with one doll and turned into a daily obsession with the daily compulsion to purchase a new  doll.  Dolls had taken over her life.  Her life with dolls was all consuming.  She had isolated herself with one daily desire - how to get more dolls.

What can you let Go of today? 

Obsessive behavior is like that - all consuming.  An interest becomes a hobby, a hobby becomes a passion, a passion becomes a daily ritual, a daily ritual becomes an hourly need, an hourly need becomes a life focus.   In Christian circles this all consuming focus on anything other than God is called idolatry.  The Bible says, "Thou shall have no other God's before me."  This means God is to be first and anything placed above God is an idol.  

Toddlers love to hold onto things and often place them in their mouth.  Consider the child who has found the remote control and will not let go.  Mama wants the remote control so she can watch television.  The child becomes stubborn and will not give Mama the remote control.  A wise mother will find a toy and offer it to the child - in exchange for the remote control.  This tactic of replacement is simple and works.  

Addiction can become like the remote control.  Stubbornly clinging to the addiction, a person will not let it go.  That is not until there is something better to cling to.  If God is our source of life, He can be the better thing to cling to.  Perhaps today can be the day to let go - to let God take control.  Cling to God and let Him be your all consuming passion.

www.stages2change.com

Taking a Risk for Better Health

You Can Do It!

  
Traveling through Iowa, I took a picture of a sign that was a good reminder to me about making changes and taking risks.  The sign was written to remind parents and encourage children to keep taking small risks. 

Risking is key to growing up.

Risks are about making changes, and changes are never easy.  When is the last time you took a risk?  I mean really attempted to do something that you thought was scary or could be disastrous?  Did you know that risking is key to growing up?

As a child, taking risks is  commonplace.  It is all apart of being young and experiencing new things.  When we become adults, we can stop taking risks.  We can develop daily habits and routines that are often hard to change.  Sometimes these habits and routines are not the most healthy. What if you did a little experiment to see how easy it would be for you to make a change?

You could mix up your daily routine in some way.  For example: if your morning routine is to crawl out of bed, pull on your robe, step into the kitchen and pour a cup of coffee, sit in the recliner and read the paper before facing the world . . . you could change your morning routine and see how easy it is for you.  Perhaps you get up, get dressed, go for a half a mile walk around the neighborhood, come home, have coffee and then read the paper.  How well would you adapt to the change in routine? 

Sign in play area in the Des Moines, Iowa Science Museum

Recovery from addiction requires many small changes and many risks.  Recovery is choosing to let go of unhealthy habits and choosing to embrace healthy habits.  Taking risks and making healthy changes is easier when you are not alone.  A supportive community and recovery counselor can walk with you through this process.  Decide today to take that first risky step towards good health.  You will be glad you did.

To learn more about how to overcome addiction and develop a healthy lifestyle check out our webpage at:  

www.stages2change.com

Musician James Taylor Attends Drug Court Graduation

The Following Article is taken from an email I received from the National Association of Drug Court Professionals. 

Recovering Addict James Taylor Hugs a Drug Court Graduate

"Five-time Grammy winner James Taylor left his current tour to pay homage to Drug Court graduates at a National Drug Court Month commencement in Pinellas County, Florida yesterday. This singer joined NADCP, dozens of local dignitaries, and special guests at a ceremony honoring 100 graduates of the Pinellas County Adult Drug Court. 

Taylor spoke openly to graduates about his thirty year recovery from addiction and applauded the Drug Court for building a broad coalition of community support. “I am overwhelmed,” he told the crowd. “I am inspired to see the backbone of this community caring for its own. I never thought something like Drug Court was possible but seeing it in person has restored my hope in humanity.” Speaking directly to graduates he said, “Now you must give back to the community which has given so much to you. Thank you for letting me take away the inspiration of your company.”

The ceremony began on a celebratory note when presiding Judge Dee Anna Farnell strode to the podium and proclaimed, ‘Hello Clearwater!” The packed audience enthusiastically returned the salutation. Judge Farnell reiterated that the day belonged to the graduates and that everyone present was there to support them. "These 100 people have made such valiant attempts at rehabilitation, and now they have so many doors open to them,” she said before quoting from James Taylor’s 1977 song The Secret of Life. “They have learned that ‘the secret of life is enjoying the passage of time.’"

To learn more about the Drug Court program check out the NADCP Website: http://www.nadcp.org/nadcp-home/

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