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. "

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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"

'via Blog this'

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."



'via Blog this'

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.

'via Blog this'

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.

'via Blog this'

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"

'via Blog this'

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"



'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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.)"

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

(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:



'via Blog this'

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.





'via Blog this'

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.

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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"

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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."

'via Blog this'

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.""

'via Blog this'