The Effects of Alcohol

Alcohol is a depressant that affects the central nervous system. It is the most widely used drug in the world, with over 70% of people in the United States over the age of 18 reporting alcohol consumption within the previous 12 months (Capuzzi, D., & Stauffer, 2019).

Alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream through the stomach and small intestine. Its effects are usually felt within 20 minutes. The amount of alcohol that is absorbed depends on a number of factors, including the amount of alcohol consumed, the food in the stomach, and the person's body weight. Alcohol affects the brain by slowing down the activity of neurons. This can lead to a number of changes in mood, behavior, and physical functioning.

 Some of the short-term effects of alcohol include: 

• 
  Relaxation
• Euphoria
• Reduced inhibitions
• Increased sociability
• Slurred speech
• Poor coordination
• Reduced reaction time
• Drowsiness
• Blackouts

Alcohol can also have long-term effects on the brain. Heavy drinking over time can damage brain cells and lead to a number of conditions, including:

• 
  Alcohol dependence
• Alcohol withdrawal syndrome
• Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome
• Dementia
• Stroke
  
• Liver disease
• Heart disease
• Cancer

Alcohol can also be addictive. People who are addicted to alcohol may experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop drinking. These symptoms can include anxiety, tremors, nausea, and vomiting.

If you are concerned about your drinking, it is important to talk to a doctor or a therapist. They can help you assess your drinking and develop a plan to reduce or stop drinking.

 Here are some tips for reducing your drinking:

• Set limits on how much you drink.
• Drink slowly and evenly.
• Eat before you drink.
• Avoid drinking on an empty stomach.
• Drink non-alcoholic beverages in between alcoholic drinks.
• Take breaks from drinking.
• Have a plan for how you will get home safely if you are drinking.

References 

 Capuzzi, D., & Stauffer, M. D. (2019). Foundations of Addictions Counseling (4th ed.).  Pearson Education (US). https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/9780135169858

The History of Drug Laws in the United States

 The History of Drug Laws in the United States

The history of drug laws in the United States is a long and complex one, dating back to the late 19th century. During this time, there was growing concern about the use of drugs in patent medicines and products sold over the counter. Cocaine, opium, and morphine were common ingredients in many potions, and even Coca-Cola once contained cocaine.

In an effort to control the use of these drugs, the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906 was passed. This act required labels on drugs contained in products, including opium, morphine, and heroin. The Harrison Act of 1914 went even further, taxing opium and coca products with registration and record-keeping requirements.

The Controlled Substances Act of 1970 was the next major piece of legislation to address drug use. This act classified drugs according to their medical use, the potential for abuse, and the possibility of creating dependence. According to Uhl (2023), The five classes of drugs are:

1. Schedule I: Drugs with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse
2. Schedule II: Drugs with a high potential for abuse but also a legitimate medical use
3. Schedule III: Drugs with moderate potential for abuse and a legitimate medical use
4. Schedule IV: Drugs with low potential for abuse and a legitimate medical use
5. Schedule V: Drugs with very low potential for abuse and a legitimate medical use

Since the passage of the Controlled Substances Act, there have been a number of changes to the drug laws in the United States. For example, the Controlled Substances Analogue Enforcement Act of 1986 made it illegal to manufacture or distribute drugs that are similar to controlled substances. And the Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention Act of 2010 increased penalties for drug trafficking and abuse.

The current drug laws in the United States are a complex and controversial issue. There is no easy answer to the question of how to best address drug use and addiction. However, it is important to have a clear understanding of the history of drug laws in order to make informed decisions about the future.

The War on Drugs

In the 1970s, the United States government launched a War on Drugs. This was a major initiative to reduce the illegal drug trade and drug use. The War on Drugs has been criticized for its high costs and its focus on incarceration rather than prevention and treatment.

One of the most controversial aspects of the War on Drugs has been the use of mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses. These sentences have resulted in the incarceration of large numbers of people, many of whom are nonviolent offenders (Foundations of Addictions Counseling, n.d.).

The War on Drugs has also been criticized for its disproportionate impact on minority communities. African Americans and Latinos are more likely to be arrested and convicted of drug offenses than white Americans (Foundations of Addictions Counseling, n.d.).

The Future of Drug Laws

The future of drug laws in the United States is uncertain. There is growing support for decriminalizing or legalizing certain drugs, such as marijuana. However, there is also opposition to these changes, and it is unclear whether they will be implemented.

The debate over drug laws is likely to continue for many years to come. It is a complex issue with no easy answers. However, it is important to have a clear understanding of the history of drug laws in order to make informed decisions about the future.

In addition to the information above, here are some other things to consider when thinking about the future of drug laws in the United States:

• The rise of the opioid crisis
• The increasing availability of synthetic drugs
• The role of technology in drug trafficking
• The need for more effective prevention and treatment programs

The future of drug laws in the United States is uncertain, but it is clear that this is an issue that will continue to be debated for many years to come.

Resources

 Capuzzi, D., & Stauffer, M. D. (2019). Foundations of Addictions Counseling (4th ed.). Pearson Education (US). https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/9780135169858

Foundations of Addictions Counseling 1292041943, 1269374508, 9781292041940, 9781269374507. (n.d.). Dokumen.pub. Retrieved August 17, 2023, from   https://dokumen.pub/foundations-addictions-counseling-  

Uhl, G. R. (2023). Selecting the appropriate hurdles and endpoints for pentilludin, a novel antiaddiction pharmacotherapeutic targeting the receptor type protein tyrosine phosphatase D. Frontiers in                 Psychiatry, 14, 1031283. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1031283 

 The History of Addiction Counseling in the United States

Addiction counseling is a relatively new field of specialization within the counseling profession. However, the history of addiction counseling in the United States can be traced back to the early 1800s, when the first temperance movements began to emerge. These movements were aimed at reducing the consumption of alcohol, and they often involved moral persuasion and religious conversion.

In the late 1800s, the first inebriate homes were established. These were residential treatment facilities for people who were struggling with alcohol addiction. The first inebriate homes were modeled after asylums, and they often used aversive conditioning techniques to treat addiction.

In the early 1900s, the focus of addiction treatment began to shift towards a more holistic approach. This approach emphasized the importance of addressing the psychological and social factors that contribute to addiction.

In the 1930s, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was founded. AA is a self-help group for people who are struggling with alcohol addiction. AA is based on the 12-step model of recovery, and it has been credited with helping millions of people achieve sobriety.

In the 1960s, the field of addiction counseling began to professionalize. The first professional organizations for addiction counselors were established, and the first graduate programs in addiction counseling were developed.

Today, addiction counseling is a well-established profession. Addiction counselors work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and prisons. They provide a variety of services, including individual and group counseling, family therapy, and case management.

The role of addiction counselors is essential in the fight against addiction. They provide hope and support to people who are struggling with addiction, and they help them to achieve sobriety and recovery.

The Role of Professional Counselors in Addiction Treatment

Professional counselors play a vital role in addiction treatment. They provide a variety of services, including:

• Individual and group counseling
• Family therapy
• Case management
• Substance abuse education
• Relapse prevention planning

Counselors help clients to understand their addiction, develop coping skills, and build a strong support network. They also work with clients to address the underlying issues that may have contributed to their addiction, such as mental health problems, trauma, or stress.

The Importance of Professional Licensure

In order to practice addiction counseling, it is important to be licensed by a state

or national board. This ensures that counselors have met certain educational and training requirements. It also ensures that counselors are held accountable for their professional conduct.

If you are struggling with addiction, it is important to seek help from a qualified professional counselor. A counselor can help you to understand your addiction, develop coping skills, and build a strong support network. With the right help, you can achieve sobriety and recovery.

Resources for Addiction Treatment

• The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD): 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM): 1-888-637-2726

References

 Capuzzi, David, and Mark D. Stauffer. Foundations of Addictions Counseling. Available     from: VitalSource Bookshelf, (4th Edition). Pearson Education (US), 2019.

 A Meth Withdrawal Symptom Timeline??

STAGE ONE

Days 0 to 15

According to different sources, the withdrawal stage of meth from days 0 to 15 can involve various symptoms that can be acute or post-acute. Acute symptoms are those that appear shortly after the last use and peak within 24 hours. Post-acute symptoms are those that persist for longer periods of time and tend to be less severe. According to Thomas (2022), the following symptoms can occur:

Anxiety

Fatigue

Irritability

Lack of energy

Weight gain

Dehydration

Chills

Insomnia followed by hypersomnia (sleeping too much)

Dysphoria (low mood) could progress to clinical depression and suicidal thoughts

The inability to think clearly

Anhedonia (loss of ability to feel pleasure)

Withdrawing from others

Drug cravings

Honeymoon Phase

Days 16 to 45

The honeymoon stage of meth withdrawal is the second phase of recovery, which usually occurs from days 16 to 45 after quitting meth. However, this stage can also be risky, as some people may falsely believe that their meth problem has ended and that they no longer need treatment or support (Meth Recovery, 2018).

 

The Wall

Days 46 to 120 of meth withdrawal are known as the wall stage, which is the third phase of recovery.

During this stage, people may experience a decline in their mood and motivation, as well as an increase in their cravings and difficulty. They may find little pleasure in life and struggle with low energy, poor concentration, irritability, and insomnia. This stage can be very challenging and make people vulnerable to relapse, as they may be tempted to use meth again to escape their negative feelings or to cope with stress. However, this stage is also temporary and will eventually pass, as the brain continues to heal and adjust to the absence of meth (SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT of METHAMPHETAMINE ADDICTION, n.d.). 

Adjustment Stage

The adjustment stage of meth withdrawal is the fourth phase of recovery, which usually occurs from days 121 to 180 after quitting meth.

During this stage, the risk of relapse decreases, as the brain continues to heal and the cravings become less frequent and intense. People also feel more accomplished and optimistic about their recovery and their future. However, this stage can also present some challenges, as people may face stress, conflict, or temptation in their daily lives. They may also struggle with some residual symptoms, such as mood swings, fatigue, or insomnia (Falconberry, 2016). They may need to deal with the consequences of their past meth use, such as legal, financial, or health issues.

Resolution Stage

 During this stage, people have successfully overcome the most difficult challenges of meth withdrawal and recovery. They have learned new skills to sustain their sobriety, such as coping with triggers, managing cravings, and preventing relapse.                                   

     However, this stage does not mean that the recovery process is over or that the risk of relapse is gone. People may still face stress, conflict, or temptation in their daily lives that could challenge their sobriety.                                                           

                                                                                    

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Struggling with Meth cravings?? Wanting to use it again??? 

I'm sorry to hear that you are struggling with meth cravings. Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant that can cause changes in the brain's reward system and make it hard to quit. There are some ways to combat feelings that lead to meth cravings, such as: 

1. 
   - Managing stress by using coping skills like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or listening to soothing music.
2. Exercising regularly releases natural endorphins and improves your mood and health.
3. Distracting yourself with hobbies, activities, or goals that give you a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
4. Avoiding triggers that remind you of meth use, such as certain people, places, objects, or situations
5. Eating a healthy and balanced diet to nourish your body and brain and reduce cravings for unhealthy substances.
6. Seeking professional help from a doctor, therapist, or addiction treatment program that can offer you medication, counseling, or other forms of support.
7. Joining a support group where you can share your experiences, feelings, and challenges with other people who understand what you are going through and can offer you encouragement and advice.
8. Calling a trusted person like a friend, family member, or sponsor who can listen to you and help you stay on track with your recovery.

These are some suggestions that may help you cope with meth cravings. However, everyone is different and what works for one person may not work for another. You have to find what works best for you and stick with it. Remember that you are not alone and that there is hope for recovery. You can do this! 💪

Neurobiological Components of Addiction: Understanding the Reward Pathway

 Neurobiological Components of

Addiction: Understanding the Reward

Pathway

Reward pathway

The basic concept in the neurobiology of addiction is the reward pathway which comprises the areas of the brain most involved in addiction. 

The limbic system

Home of the areas of the brain thought to make up the reward pathway. When stimuli activate particular areas of the brain then pleasurable sensations are produced. Neurotransmitters play critical roles in transmitting information between neurons through synapses. A synapse measures twenty to fifty nanometers.

Dopamine

Dopamine is an important neurotransmitter involved in reward and euphoria experiences. Dopamine is made by very few brain cells and acts mainly within a subset of brain regions. Dopamine seems to have a disproportionately large impact on brain function.

Cocaine

Cocaine interferes with the normal action of dopamine by blocking the removal or reuptake of dopamine which results in an increase of dopamine in the neurons, resulting in overstimulation of receiving neurons called neuroreceptors. This is experienced by the user as a pleasurable euphoria. An addict seeks to continue experiencing this sensation which results from an abundance of powerful neurotransmitters including dopamine. In the brain, this dopaminergic transmission and reward pathway is a primary feature of addiction.

The areas of the brain involved in the reward pathway

VTA

The VTA has emerged as a new research interest in understanding how addiction and drugs affect the brain. The stress of VTA may be a potential factor in relapse. Advanced research will unlock more keys to understanding the VTA and GABA's role in inhibiting or slowing the dopaminergic surge.

References 

     Capuzzi, D., & Stauffer, M. D. (2019). Foundations of Addictions Counseling (4th ed.). Pearson Education (US). https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/9780135169858 

 Combating Negative Self-Talk

Negative self-talk is the inner voice that criticizes, doubts or belittles yourself. It can affect your mood, confidence, and performance at work. Negative self-talk can also lead to stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout. But how can you combat negative self-talk and replace it with positive affirmations? Here are some tips to help you:

• 
  Identify the triggers. What situations or events make you feel insecure, frustrated, or inadequate? Is it a difficult project, a demanding client, a challenging colleague, or a personal issue? Try to notice when and why you start to talk negatively to yourself. 
•  Challenge the thoughts. Don't accept your negative thoughts as facts. Ask yourself if they are realistic, helpful, or fair. For example, if you think "I'm not good enough for this job", ask yourself "What evidence do I have for this? How would I respond if a friend said this to me? What can I do to improve my skills or confidence?"
  
• Replace the thoughts. Once you have challenged your negative thoughts, replace them with positive ones. Use affirmations that are specific, realistic, and empowering. For example, instead of saying "I can't do this", say "I can do this if I work hard and ask for help when I need it".
• Practice gratitude. One way to combat negative self-talk is to focus on the positive aspects of your life and work. Make a habit of writing down or saying out loud three things you are grateful for every day. This can help you appreciate what you have and what you have achieved. 
•  Seek support. You don't have to deal with negative self-talk alone. Talk to someone you trust, such as a friend, family member, mentor, or therapist. They can help you gain perspective, offer encouragement, and provide feedback. You can also join a support group or online community where you can share your experiences and learn from others

What not to do for a loved one who is a victim of domestic violence.

  Domestic violence is a serious and complex issue that affects millions of people around the world. It can take many forms, such as physical, emotional, sexual, financial, or psychological abuse. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, or socioeconomic status. If you suspect that someone you care about is a victim of domestic violence, you may feel helpless, angry, scared, or confused. You may want to help them, but you may not know how. You may also worry about making things worse or putting yourself in danger. While there is no one right way to support a loved one who is experiencing domestic violence, there are some things that you should avoid doing. Here are some common mistakes that well-meaning people make when trying to help a victim of domestic violence, and why they can be harmful. 

- Don't blame them for the abuse. It is never the victim's fault that they are being abused. They are not responsible for the abuser's actions or choices. Blaming them can make them feel guilty, ashamed, or hopeless. It can also make them less likely to trust you or seek help. 

- Don't pressure them to leave. Leaving an abusive relationship is not easy or simple. It can be very dangerous, as the risk of violence can increase when the victim tries to end the relationship. It can also be emotionally and financially challenging, as the victim may have strong feelings for the abuser or depend on them for survival. Pressuring them to leave can make them feel judged, isolated, or overwhelmed. It can also make them more resistant to change or more loyal to the abuser. 

- Don't give ultimatums or threats. You may think that by threatening to cut off contact, report the abuse, or intervene in some way, you are motivating the victim to take action. However, this can backfire and have the opposite effect. Ultimatums and threats can make the victim feel trapped, manipulated, or betrayed. They can also increase their fear of losing you or facing negative consequences. Instead of helping them, you may be pushing them away or endangering them. 

- Don't ignore or minimize the abuse. You may find it hard to believe or accept that someone you love is being abused by someone else you love. You may hope that it is a one-time incident or that it will get better over time. You may also think that it is not your place to interfere or that it is a private matter. However, ignoring or minimizing the abuse can make it worse and more dangerous. It can also send the message that you don't care about the victim or that you condone the abuse. 

- Don't confront the abuser. You may feel angry or frustrated with the abuser and want to confront them or make them stop. You may think that by talking to them, reasoning with them, or challenging them, you can change their behavior or protect the victim. However, this can be very risky and ineffective. Confronting the abuser can provoke them to lash out at you or the victim. It can also undermine the victim's autonomy and agency and make them feel disempowered or betrayed. 

So what can you do instead? Here are some positive ways to support a loved one who is a victim 💓of domestic violence. 

- Listen to them without judgment. Let them know that you are there for them and that you believe them. Validate their feelings and experiences and acknowledge their strengths and resilience. 

- Respect their decisions and choices. Understand that they are the experts on their own situation and that they know what is best for them. Support their goals and needs and help them explore their options and resources. 

- Empower them to take action. Encourage them to seek help from professionals who specialize in domestic violence, such as counselors, advocates, lawyers, or police officers. Help them create a safety plan and access emergency services if needed. 

 

- Educate yourself about domestic violence. Learn about the dynamics of abuse, the barriers to leaving, the signs of danger, and the available resources in your community. Avoid myths and stereotypes about domestic violence and challenge any victim-blaming attitudes. 

- Take care of yourself. Supporting a loved one who is a victim of domestic violence can be stressful and exhausting. Make sure that you have your own support system and coping strategies. Seek help from others if you feel overwhelmed or unsafe. 

 

Remember that domestic violence is not a problem that you can solve by yourself. It is a social issue that requires collective action and systemic change. By supporting your loved one in a compassionate and respectful way, you are making a difference in their life and in the world