New online questionnaire for parents

Wonder if you need to worry about your kids and drugs? Do you wonder if they may be hiding something form you? We now put up an on-line questionnaire that you can take and score. If you have any kids from at home over the age of 9, please use go here:

Take this online Questionnaire!

Sober Coaching Your Teen: "DOES YOUR CHILD NEED HELP?"



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Today's Sober Joke

I feel sorry for people who don’t drink or do drugs. Because someday they’re going to be in a hospital bed, dying, and they won’t know why. (Redd Foxx)

Sometimes if you don't laugh, you'll cry!

Amazon.com: I don't want Roses and Posies When I Die: (Working the 12 Steps in Conjunction with Cancer) eBook: Shelly M., Susie S.: Kindle Store

An interview with Susie S regarding working the 12 Steps in conjunction with cancer. This is the Kindle version--the pamphlet will be available in the next few weeks--I'll keep you posted.

Amazon.com: I don't want Roses and Posies When I Die: (Working the 12 Steps in Conjunction with Cancer) eBook: Shelly M., Susie S.: Kindle Store:



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Solid parenting reduces drug abuse risks/Yeah right

Nuts to this "advice"--you can do all these "solid" things and if your kid is going to use, you can't do a whole lot about it. Remember Amy's story in the front of our workbook? she is the president of SODA? She comes from a great family and is scared to death to tell anyone she drinks too much, way too much.



Of course basic parenting skills do influence your kids, but it doesn't "prevent" addiction. Maybe it helps them make better choices after they experiment and do get into trouble.

Solid parenting reduces drug abuse risks: "Basic parenting skills can go far in reducing the likelihood of a child’s becoming substance-addicted or ever experimenting in the first place, Dr. Mann Spitler says.
There are six behaviors in particular which parents should make a habit."

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From Bongs to books for this young actress

You just have to love these young celabs and their high profile "recovery." We wish Amanda the very best!

After rehab stint, Amanda Bynes is ‘a great student’ | Page Six: "She’s gone from bongs to books.
Since enrolling at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in Janua
ry, Amanda Bynes has proved herself quite the student."

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Addiction: A Guilford Family's Story

Here is the first of a three-part series on youth battling addiction, WNPR introduces you to the Harmons family of Guilford. This appears to be a very factual look at kids becoming addicted in a family, how the family finds out and what they can do about it. If you are dealing with kids and addiction (or drug abuse) I suggest that you read this entire series. 

I find this first of the series full of facts that a lot of parents don't know--for instance, 60 percent of the drugs kids get are GIVEN to them by friends or relatives--mostly siblings. Parents and communities are so very worried about the dealer down the street--so much so that they make laws increasing penalties for "selling" drugs near a school ground. News flash--dealers selling drugs by schools is almost a non-issue!  Less than 20% of kids gets drugs from dealers--and very seldom start by buying from dealers. Their brothers, sisters, aunts, parents, friends...and even doctors are the ones who get them started.



Read the series...its full of useful facts and information is the place to begin. correct information--not scare tactics.

Addiction: A Guilford Family's Story | WNPR News: "Tim's father, Justin, said, "I don’t think we realized what a serious problem it was until he nearly died." 

The Harmons had heard that members of his swim team had been experimenting with drugs. "We thought he was experimenting," Justin Harmon said. "We believed it was at the level of marijuana. "

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Spring Break Can Be Deadly

Although you can' do much about your kids participating in Spring Break antics--they make their own choices after all, you don't have to bank roll it if you don't agree--think about wht you give your son or daughter money for--especially if they have trouble with alcohol and other drugs--Spring Break is no longer just a break from school for a bit of relaxation--it is almost exclusively a drinking, drug, and sexual overindulgence.

Spring Break Can Be Deadly: "Today college spring break no longer resembles a 1960 movie with Connie Francis singing "Where the Boys Are" on the beach. It's more like watching an MTV bikini contest or an episode of "Girls Gone Wild."

These days, spring break presents a wide variety of dangers for college students targeted by marketing efforts that promote dangerous drinking and sex."

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Activities for Children | 12 Steps 12 Stories

Trying to share the 12 steps with your kids? Here is a book that helps you with the message. I thought it was worth sharing. Beside the workbook--there is a resource section of kids books (for kids in alcoholic families) and a section on activities you can do with kids from 6 to 12.

Activities for Children | 12 Steps 12 Stories: "Introduce Your Children to the 12 Steps
Explore the Spiritual Messages of Recovery
Create Open and Healing Family Discussions"

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Four Circles Recovery Center March 2014 Newsletter

Four Circles Recovery has a great little newsletter where they share personal stories (as well as other recovery news). You might like to read JAANA's story of intervention and treatment.

Four Circles Recovery Center March 2014 Newsletter: "My Journey began January 11, 2012, when I walked into a circle of 
loved ones with letters. As you probably guessed, I walked into an intervention. At first, I wasn’t willing to go to treatment. I knew I wanted to get off of drugs, but had no idea that treatment was the answer.  I had a two year-old daughter that I did not want to leave and was paralyzed with fear. However, I ended up going to treatment. Little did I know, I was going to wake up the next day to the best experience that would save my life."



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LETTER: Addicts aren't immoral

Its important to remember that although drug addiction is a disease--people don't want to become drug addicts and ruin their lives your life and their kid's life--it is a disease of choice--ie they pick up that drug. BUT do they have a choice about making the choice? I didn't before I knew I was an alcoholic addict...once I knew it was a disease, I stopped picking up. But when I wanted to stop smoking (also an addiction)--it took me 10 years of constant trying.



I have no idea why I quit alcohol and speed but the tobacco was so much longer. I didn't want to smoke when pregnant--I didn't want to spend the money--I didn't want to smoke in front of my daughter but I did. So do addicts want to use in spite of everything--usually not. Why do they do it? Its a disease. Its hard to recover. Most of them die. Usually they don't want to die---here's a letter about this I foudn and want to share.

LETTER: Heroin, prescription drug crisis getting out of hand | lehighvalleylive.com:

People must take their heads out of the sand and acknowledge this problem. Drug addicts suffer an addictive disorder — they are not depraved, immoral persons bent on self-destruction. Many were introduced to highly addictive prescription drugs as treatment for medical conditions.

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Doctors are key source of narcotics for riskiest users

Its a shame really--because doctors do want to help people and they don't want to hurt them. So in their attempts to help--they often prescribe pain meds or anxiety meds to try and help with symptoms--they are busy, they have other patients to get to and it its just so darn easy to "stop the pain right now" with a pill. And then you have the abuse and dependency follows...Doctors don't get up in the morning and say--"I hope I get 3 people addicted today.." We know they don't. but they do get people addicted--it is just so darn easy--here is a new study that explores this--in the LA Times. Worth reading

Doctors are key source of narcotics for riskiest users, study says - latimes.com: "Doctors are fueling the epidemic of prescription drug addiction and overdose and represent the single largest supplier of these drugs to chronic abusers, according to a government study published Monday."
The finding challenges the conventional wisdom that the epidemic is caused primarily by abusers getting their drugs without prescriptions, typically from friends and family.

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ManyFaces1Voice & The Anonymous People Film

This is going to be so much fun! thank about getting a group of folks together, have dinner, popcorn and sit and watch this film. It's all day (on demand) and FREE for one day--this Sat March 1st. You're goig to want to watch it and its better watching it with friends.

ManyFaces1Voice & The Anonymous People Film: "On March 1st, the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, a founding partner of the ManyFaces1Voice call-to-action campaign, will host a free online stream of The Anonymous People via the Hazelden Social Community: www.hazelden.org/social (You must join the online community to watch, but joining is free).

On that day, people from all over the world will watch The Anonymous People, which will be accessible for online streaming for 24 hours (12AM to 11:59PM EST on 3/1/14). As an added bonus, the film’s director, Greg Williams, and other key subjects from the film, including Hazelden’s William Cope Moyers, will have a dialogue about recovery advocacy during a live chat that begins at 5 p.m. EST"

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been-there-done-that

Just an announcement--I'm being interviewed about the new App (and lots of other things too--this Sat) Why don't you join us at the Been There Done that show?



been-there-done-that: "Shelly Marshall Turn Your iPhone into A Pocket Sponsor Host the Been There Done That Show 2-22-14 Saturday 6pm mst"



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Ozzy Osbourne celebrating 12 months of sobriety

Worth something. I love it when people share their recovery. We need more high people in recovery sharing their success rather than all the failures we see smeared across the news everyday!

Sharon Osbourne and Ozzy Osbourne: Former X Factor judge tells of love for ''softie'' Black Sabbath singer who is celebrating 12 months of sobriety - 3am & Mirror Online: "The former X Factor judge told of their “fantastic” relationship as the Black Sabbath singer celebrated 12 months of sobriety.

After admitting last year how she threatened him with divorce, Sharon, 61, said she partly blamed herself for not noticing his relapse.

Ozzy, 65, who had been sober for seven years, had been taking drink and drugs in secret for months."

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Spiders On Drugs

Drug Education and Prevention for your Teen | Morningside Recovery

We've talked a lot about prescription drugs and kids lately. Have you heard the commercial with the medicine cabinet talking to you? Telling you your kids are abusing your prescription drugs? It would be nice to have a medicine cabinet that "tells" on the kids...NSA not-with-standing. But every parent should know the basics about drug education and abuse--that is why this is a good primer article for arming yourself with the facts. Morningside did a good job.

Drug Education and Prevention for your Teen | Morningside Recovery: "Drugs come in many forms; they can be prescribed by a physician, purchased over-the-counter, or found in common household products. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as cough syrup and diet pills are often considered harmless by teenagers. They are also increasingly popular to abuse, as they are readily available and they are relatively low-cost. Other common types of drugs include prescription pain killers, inhalants, stimulants, hallucinogens, and depressants. Although it is often discussed in a category of its own, alcohol is also a type of drug and is classified as a depressant. Tobacco, which contains the drug nicotine, and marijuana, are some of the first drugs that a teenager may use as they may also see them as harmless. Club drugs, which are drugs that are typically used at parties or in clubs, are also common types of drugs. These may include Ecstasy, methamphetamine, and Rohypnol (a.k.a the date-rape drug.)"

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Energy Drink Consumption Signal Substance Abuse In Teens,

Very interesting study--it looks like when you "train" yourself to rely on outside things for your mood--i.e. energy drinks for a pick me up--and such--that you are training yourself for substance abuse--but it makes sense and why would we be surprised?

Energy Drink Consumption May Signal Substance Abuse In Teens, Young Adults - Health News - redOrbit: "Teens who constantly crack open a Red Bull or Monster energy drink could be at a higher risk of using alcohol and drugs, according to a new study published in the Journal of Addiction Medicine.

The energy drink industry has grown immensely over the past decade, and studies show that nearly one-third of US adolescents consume the high-caffeinated drinks. However, the latest research says that these teens also show higher rates of alcohol, cigarette or drug use."

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(36) InsideOUT Writers

If you are not a member of FaceBook I apologize for linking to this--but it is such a great endeavor. This is young people who have been incarcerated using writing to help help themselves and reaching out to others. I love it. That is how the book "Young, sober, & Free" was written--a group of young people in recovery getting together and deciding what needs to be in their book. In the forward we quote a judge who always used to say "I ain't Preaching..." because he didn't thinking preaching to those before him would ever help. Today in many 12 step programs they have a saying "reach out, don't preach out." and young writers reaching out to other kids who need guidance--well, there is nothing better.



(36) InsideOUT Writers:



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Community class educates teens and parents on pot

Community class educates teens and parents on pot: "The legalization of recreational marijuana in Colorado has local law enforcement and parents concerned. Tuesday, dozens of parents and their teens had the opportunity to learn more about the harmful effects of drug use."



News flash--kids are not likely to give a hoot. In fact they are probably laughing behind your backs--with the legalization of pot, clinics on the corner, clebas doing it and even the prez saying it should be legalized--why would they listen about the "evils."



In fact, it is the least harmful of the recreational drugs--until we look at tobacco and alcohol, how can we teach about the "EVEILS" of maryjane? I think we are going to have to find another approach--like making kids think lots of others are not doing it and that's the cool thing....influences on what others do work best to persuade kids not to do, or to do, behaviors. that is the growth stage they are in. Preaching and teaching just won't cut it.





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Jenelle Evans Reads Book For Recovering Addicts!

Well, look at this--someone using Day By Day and proud of it! even has over 600 likes--That is our first meditation book and we are proud of it too Jenelle.

Despite being arrested for heroin possession and simple assault in April, Teen Mom 2’s Jenelle Evans is making sure she stays on her sober track. To prove it, the mom hopped on Facebook to show off one of her daily reads — a book called Day by Day: Daily Meditations For Recovering Addicts.

Jenelle Evans Reads Book For Recovering Addicts! (PHOTO) | Teen Mom | Wetpaint:

Post by Jenelle Evans.

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On alcoholism, Marty Walsh deserves better coverage than Bush got

Alcoholism isn't the stigma that it used to be. Here is a story about the Boston Mayor (Walsh) who is very open about his attendance at AA meetings. the article also discusses George Bush and his openness regarding his disease and spiritual recovery in a 12 Step program.



The disease of addiction (alcoholism included) can be a real blessing to those afflicted. How? i was raised in an alcoholic home that gave me a very rocky beginning. I didn't have much of a foundation to build on like kids from solid family backgrounds. I don't need to paint a picture for most of our readers about how sick and outrageous an alcoholic background could be--but take my word for it, once i began drinking--all hell broke loose. I was an ugly loudmouthed drunk who didn't have much of a chance anywhere except in a bar or the pages of Playboy.



So being an alcoholic who could join a 12 Step program was a blessing. It gave me a way out--a way to "fix" what was wrong with me--not just my current alcoholism but all those things I didn't learn while growing up. the program raised me, so to speak and gave me a spiritual base from which to build my life.



So when you discover that loved one (especially your children) are chemically dependent, look at the blessing side of recovery. Read about this Mayor and about our past president. Their recovery MADE them and your child's recovery can make them too--and you can be part of the solution. Be sure to look at our website for parents SobercoachingYourTeen.com

On alcoholism, Marty Walsh deserves better coverage than Bush got - Opinion - The Boston Globe: "So far, so good. Walsh has spoken openly about his struggles with alcohol with the Globe and other publications. It was widely reported during the mayoral campaign that Walsh still attends meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous almost 20 years after quitting. “I don’t really care who knows I’m an alcoholic, because if it helps somebody else knowing that I’m an alcoholic, then they’ll ask me for help if they need it,” Walsh told the Globe’s Stephanie Ebbert last year."

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5th Annual Experience, Strength and Hope Award Show | Writers in Treatment

I am going to this event on February 13--so excited. this is one of the non-profits I support and I hope you will give it a look see. They give scholarships to writers in recovery. this year they are

Honoring Carrie White,
author of UPPER CUT

5th Annual Experience, Strength and Hope Award Show | Writers in Treatment: "5th Annual Experience, Strength and Hope Award Show


Join Us to Celebrate
The 5th Annual
Experience, Strength and Hope Award Show"

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Substance Use Disorders in the U.S. Armed Forces

We know that the military has a high rate of addiction problems, but how are our  guys and gals helped when an addiction problem does occur? Maybe you have a loved one in the service and are worried that they have a problem or that the addiction problems of others may endanger their life.



The Department of Defense (DoD) is analyzing its policies and programs that pertain to prevention and treatment of substance use disorders for active duty service members in all branches. they commissioned a study with the Institute of Medicine. One of the problems is that the military stresses being physically fit and combat ready and addiction problems clearly are not in line with that goal--in fact a lot of energy goes into hiding addiction problems--not seeking help in the service. Why? Because when drug abuse behavior is reported to the commander--rather then get help, it means your career in the service is over.



This report may help--help train our professionals to get help for their men and bring them back...in fact i know that men in recovery will make great soldiers and generals and admirals and whatever other commanders our military holds. those who practice the principles of recovery can add so much to our national security. Read about teh study here:

Substance Use Disorders in the U.S. Armed Forces - Institute of Medicine: "Like many sectors of society, the U.S. military has a long history of alcohol and other drug misuse and abuse. In recent years, the face of the issue has been transformed by increasing rates of prescription drug abuse among service members. Heavy alcohol use and binge drinking continues to be a concern within the military."

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Alcohol and drug recovery network, online community, blogs, chat, forums and online meetings -- Hazelden

I just found Hazelden's community site and it was a jolt. Online support can be so helpful--I'd almost forgotten how helpful. I registered myself, went to a forum and listened to Jackiesue explain how she often told herself, "I don't need those AA meetings".  That is something so many in recovery do--convince themselves they don't need the support. For parents, they often convince themselves their kids don't need the meetings!


I shared with Jackie sue what memories she brought to me:

Thank you for sharing that. Brought back memories of when I did the same. I found that I had stopped attending meetings after about 12 years in he program. I had heard it all before and found it boring to listen to the same old same old. I told myself, "God doesn't want us totally dependent on Him forever. He wants us to grow up. That is what the 12 steps are for, growing up." So I relied less and less on God and meetings and more on my own decision making.

What happened? You can guess. No, I did drink, but I could have--I married a practicing alcoholic (wasn't going to meetings so no one had a chance to tell me it might not be a good idea)--I wasn't listening to my Higher Power--I was listening to me. I made my life a living hell for a few years. Was divorcing him in less than three years and went running back to the program.

Guess what? You were all still there for me. Waiting until I needed you again.

After coming back to the loving arms of my family in the program, meetings were not so boring any longer. I found a new way to listen--listen with my heart. Thank you all for being, being here--for being clean and sober. Thanks Jackiesue for bring back these memories.  

Consider lone line support if you are in recovery or the parent of one in recovery. If you are a parent, see if you can find a support online for your young person--(or have them find it) and encourage them to use it. They can begin by sending a story to YoungSoberFree.com   and earning a free book from Hazelden! In the meantime check out Hazelden's community support and join the one for those related to the addicts.

Alcohol and drug recovery network, online community, blogs, chat, forums and online meetings -- Hazelden: "Join Hazelden's Social Community today! Interact with thousands of others who are maintaining or seeking lives free from addiction.  Access chats, online meetings, and discussion boards that address your specific areas of interest any day, any time, from anywhere.  You control your anonymity settings."

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Adolescent addiction: When pornography strikes early

When prone to one addiction we are often prone to other addictions--if you child is addiction to drugs, look for other more hidden additions. Its better to address the whole syndrome at once--do they look at pron--do they play computer game obsessively? Are they gambling? Make sure you keep your mind open to other problem areas that are prone to addiction...

Here's a young one from Utah...He could be yours

Adolescent addiction: When pornography strikes early | Deseret News: "He'd been looking for remote-controlled cars and found a cool YouTube video showing one making a huge jump.
He watched it repeatedly on his home computer, trying to ignore the sketchy video suggestions popping up on the side. But when his friend showed him the pornographic website those sketchy videos brought up, he was instantly hooked.
"At that moment, I wanted more," said the 18-year-old Justin, which is not his real name. "I looked up more. It was a constant need. I had no idea what it was. I was never happy with what I found. Even if it met my sexual preference, it didn't make me happy. I (just started) clicking and clicking and clicking and never stopped.""

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Test Kits Given To Parents Who Suspect Kids' Drug Use |

People see drug testing your kids as controversial but I agree with it. Kids are not "little" adults--they are dependent on their parents and as long they are dependent, they should live with rules. I applaud parents for taking this step when necessary--read what others think:

Test Kits Given To Parents Who Suspect Kids' Drug Use | WWNY TV 7 - News, Weather and Sports for | Local News: "Massena Police Chief Timmy Currier admits providing drug testing kits to parents if they suspect their kids are using drugs is a controversial step, but it can also be a tool for preventing drug abuse.
"I think in the end, we're trying to protect children," Currier said.
"We all know that kids -- adolescents, teenagers -- they don't make the best decisions all the time," he said. "Sometimes, even the best of kids make bad decisions.""

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Family works to open drug rehab facility in E. Ky.

Talk about dedication, not unusual for families that lose loved ones to addiction.--I just wanted to share this inspiring story--I hope we get a chance to help this family and I hope they get it open soon...

SHARPSBURG, Ky.: Family works to open drug rehab facility in E. Ky. | National | The News Tribune: "SHARPSBURG, KY. — A family in eastern Kentucky is working to turn an old school into a drug rehabilitation facility for women.
Erica Williams told WYMT-TV (http://bit.ly/1gYXZP2) that the facility in Bath County is in honor of her sister, Michele Williams, who died last year of a drug overdose.
"We've been wanting to think of something to try to help other women in that same scenario. That way, families wouldn't have to go through what we've been through," she said.
She says her family plans to turn the former Bethel Elementary school into the Michelle Williams Life Skills Academy, a 12-step drug recovery program."

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A crystal Meth Christmas Tree?

I usually don't recommend that parents "learn" the latest drug slang in order to talk to their kids about drugs--in fact, I ask them to ask their kids--the language changes that fast. In addition, if you talk to your kids and try to use their slang, you generally just discredit yourself.

This year (maybe the last few years) there is one you should listen for. Methamphetamine is sometimes called "Christmas Tree."  So don't think about that tree is innocent--maybe not. Anyway, this is a good reference site.

What You Need to Know About Drugs: Methamphetamines: "Methamphetamines (say: meth-am-fet-uh-meenz) are stimulants. Stimulants are a type of drug that speed up your brain. They are produced as pills, powders, or chunky crystals called ice."

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Talking to your tween about substance abuse

Finally--a great article about when to address your child about drug use and it is written by Moms! Very very good advice--they have three tips in the article and discuss them thoroughly:
1. don't scare them
2. avoid lecturing
3. talk about peer pressure

Picture linked from Charlotteobserver.com

I suspect that one of these Charlotte Moms is in recovery--simply because this is a common sense article. I don't need to restate what they wrote--you can read it yourself. If you have a "tween" I think this is a must read!

Talking to your tween about substance abuse | MomsCharlotte.com: "Believe it or not, it is never too soon to speak with your children regarding alcohol or drug use.
You may have noticed that kids these days are more mature and less innocent than perhaps you were at their age. We can thank the Internet for this and the era of cell phone, text messages and Facebook"

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How to Become an Oldtimer: Don't Drink and Don't Die-Kindle Store

Day By Day's Latest book is out on Kindle.Written by an old-timer in sobriety--it is a look at the basic wisdom in recovery. Think about getting it for your "babies" or for your sponsor. They don't have a Kindle? No problem, download them a free reader from Amazon for their computer.

How to become an Old-Timer; Don't Drink and Don't Die!

: "A Politically incorrect look at recovery from an old hippie turned Old-timer

In the 12 Step programs we need newcomers to tell us where we came from and Old-timers to remind us of how it works as we trudge that road of happy destiny. It's called "carrying the message." If you've been around the program for even a few months you will already have been told many myths about meetings, sponsors, the opposite sex and our sole purpose. You have questions? This Old-timer has some answers. "

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10 Tips to Prevent Teen Drug/Substance Abuse | Helping Kids Succeed - Yahoo Shine

I was looking for something else and found this article about 10 tips to prevent drug abuse in your kid. Sigh. Most of the 'advice" is just common sense as if all you parents are dopes. "have a conversation not a confrontation..." kind of stuff. "communication is the key.." No its not. Kids aren't communicating with you, they are communicating with their friends and if their friends are doing drugs, you can talk til you are blue in the face and it won't make a wits worth of difference to a kid hanging out with druggies.

They also have you download and sign a contract with your child...we all know that contracts are made to be broken. Any contract is going to insure your child will do what you ask them not to. A family drug policy (as outlined in Sober Coaching Your Teen, Workbook: Managing a drug crisis with your out-of-control Teen)
is the only written agreement that has a chance of making a difference.

Go read the article yourself and ask yourself what might work or what is just fluff to make you thin you are doing something that works. The only "tip" I would say is a good one is number 4:

4. Don't be a parent in denial. There is no teenager that is immune to drug abuse. No matter how smart your teen is, or athletic they are, they are at risk if they start using. I firmly believe that keeping your teen constructively busy, whether it is with sports, music or other hobbies they have, you will be less at risk for them to want to experiment. However don't be in the dark thinking that your teen is pulling a 4.0 GPA and on the varsity football that they couldn't be dragged down by peer pressure. Go back to number one - talk, talk, talk - remind your teen how proud you are of them, and let them know that you are always available if they feel they are being pressured to do or try something they don't want to.

10 Tips to Prevent Teen Drug/Substance Abuse | Helping Kids Succeed - Yahoo Shine:

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Celebrate #GivingTuesday

After the insanity of Black Friday, Cyber Monday and the upcoming Broke Wednesday--we need a break. The United Nations foundation started a great counter to this--called Giving Tuesday.

Although those in recovery are already known for being particularly giving, its nice to see a day set aside for this amid the holiday commercialism. Take a minute to read this and ask yourself what your "community giving" is this season. If you don't have money, then think about volunteering your time. Many kitchens for the less fortunate may need your help. Or become the bell ringer in front of the Big Box stores. Don't let this season go by without giving back to your community--

Whatever your family trouble now--serving others will always bring good back to you. Read about Giving Tuesday" here.

Celebrate #GivingTuesday | The White House: "#GivingTuesday builds on the American tradition of giving back but uses technology to give this greater impact. This commemoration does not seek to coordinate funds toward any particular nonprofit or to direct volunteers to support a specific cause. Instead, #GivingTuesday is intended to encourage Americans to reflect and give back. It’s a collective moment for individual and community action."

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Natural High Natural High – A Drug Prevention Program Inspiring and Helping Youth

This is a site I just discovered aimed at helping kids find their "natural high" as opposed to using and abusing drugs. Probably won't have much of an impact on the action brain chemistry disorder of addiction--but it can make a dent in simple abuse. I don't know though. I think of when I used in high school--I would not have gone to a site like this--I would have thought it lame.

I remember when AA came out with a comic book (sooo long ago) to help kids understand AA and help them into sobriety. All of us young people thought it such a joke--if given the comic book, a teenager in trouble with drugs was more likely to use it roll a joint then to read it. A teens job is to break away from adults and find their own independence, so trying to help them when their "job" is to break away from us is problematic.

I doubt this site would help teens, but I believe it would help pre teens because they want to be older. So material designed for older kids is gobbled up by younger ones. Weird how it works. So this site probably won't help who it was intended to do but it will help the younger ones.

Natural High Natural High – A Drug Prevention Program Inspiring and Helping Youth:

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Man dies after accidentally drinking £34,000 of crystal meth thinking it was a HEALTH DRINK | Mail Online

Here is a sad story about drugs gone wrong--I feel sorry for the daughter here. However, some people think she was murdering her father and the story is suspicious. Others think the media are dolts for blaming this on the series "Breaking Bad." To me, the most interesting part of the story are the comments after the story. Read the story below, but most important, read the comments--incredible!

Man dies after accidentally drinking £34,000 of crystal meth thinking it was a HEALTH DRINK | Mail Online: "A man has died after drinking a massive overdose of liquid crystal meth after mistaking it for a health drink.
Romano Dias, 55, had been given a bottle of what appeared to be a fruit-based drink by his daughter Katee, who had found it in a package delivered to her home.
After downing about half a glass of the liquid he immediately began to feel ill and died shortly afterwards.
Police say that finding the drug in the UK is very unusual, but crystal meth has been brought to the public's attention by the multi award-winning TV show Breaking Bad."

and here's a smattering of the comments--there are over 300! But gives one insight into how people think about drugs.

As for Breaking Bad bringing it to the UK's consciousness, you do know that Breaking Bad was on for 5 years don't you? Think something would have happened before this, that is for sure.

Cute. The police don't know what's obviously going on And the media does a comedy writeup on a TV show to help them cover up their ignorance.

Who in their right mind would drink something delivered to their home addressed to someone else???

Agatha Christie would have been proud.

 The tv program isn't glamourising this drug!! Infact it does exactly what it should be doing!! It shows meth addicts as dirty hollow faced druggies who would steal from their own kids to get a fix. Don't glamourise the "euphoric high" instead show pictures of addicts and what it really does to your body!! It eats your flesh away!!! Disgusting!!! Say no!!!!!!!

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