The Opioid Epidemic

       The Opioid Epidemic

The opioid epidemic is a serious public health crisis in the United States. Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription painkillers, heroin, and synthetic opioids like fentanyl. They work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, which can lead to a feeling of euphoria and pain relief. Opioid addiction is a chronic disease that can be difficult to treat. People who are addicted to opioids may experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop using the drug, and they may also develop a tolerance to the drug, meaning that they need to take more and more of it to achieve the same effect. The opioid epidemic has been caused by a number of factors, including the overprescription of opioid painkillers, the availability of heroin, and the use of synthetic opioids like fentanyl. The overprescription of opioid painkillers began in the early 1990s when pharmaceutical companies marketed these drugs as safe and effective for the treatment of chronic pain. As a result, the number of opioid prescriptions in the United States increased dramatically.

Heroin is a cheaper and more potent alternative to prescription painkillers. It is also more easily available, as it can be produced illegally. Synthetic opioids like fentanyl are even more potent than heroin. They are often added to heroin or other drugs without the user's knowledge, which can lead to overdose and death. The opioid epidemic has had a devastating impact on the United States. In 2017, there were over 70,000 drug overdose deaths in the United States, and the majority of these deaths involved opioids.

There are a number of things that can be done to address the opioid epidemic. 

• Reducing the overprescription of opioid painkillers
• Increasing access to treatment for opioid addiction
• Educating the public about the dangers of opioids
• Cracking down on the illegal sale of opioids

The opioid epidemic is a complex problem, but it is one that can be solved. By working together, we can save lives and prevent future tragedies.

If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, there is help available. Please reach out to a treatment provider or call the National Drug Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Resources

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

 

 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

 Psychological Models of Addiction

Addiction is a complex disorder that can have many causes. While there is no single theory that can fully explain addiction, psychological models can provide some insights into the underlying factors that contribute to this condition.

Cognitive-behavioral model

The cognitive-behavioral model of addiction focuses on the role of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in the development and maintenance of addiction. This model suggests that people who are addicted to substances or behaviors may have negative thoughts and beliefs about themselves, others, and the world. These negative thoughts can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. In turn, these negative feelings can trigger addictive behaviors as a way to cope with these emotions.

The cognitive-behavioral model also emphasizes the role of learning in addiction. This model suggests that people learn to associate certain cues or triggers with the rewarding effects of addictive substances or behaviors. Over time, these cues can become powerful triggers that lead to cravings and relapse.

Learning model

The learning model of addiction is based on the principles of classical and operant conditioning. Classical conditioning occurs when a neutral stimulus is paired with a rewarding stimulus, such as the feeling of euphoria that comes from using a drug. Over time, the neutral stimulus (e.g., the sight of a drug) can become a conditioned stimulus that triggers cravings and urges to use the drug.

Operant conditioning occurs when a behavior is followed by a consequence. In the case of addiction, the behavior of using a substance or engaging in behavior is followed by a pleasurable consequence (e.g., the feeling of euphoria). This positive reinforcement increases the likelihood that the behavior will be repeated in the future.

Psychodynamic model

The psychodynamic model of addiction views addiction as a way of coping with underlying psychological issues. This model suggests that people who are addicted to substances or behaviors may have unresolved conflicts or trauma from their past. They may use addictive substances or behaviors as a way to avoid dealing with these difficult emotions.

The psychodynamic model also emphasizes the role of the unconscious mind in addiction. This model suggests that people who are addicted may not be aware of the underlying reasons for their addiction. They may need therapy to help them understand and address these unconscious issues.

Personality theory model

The personality theory model of addiction views addiction as a way of expressing certain personality traits. This model suggests that people who are addicted may have personality traits such as impulsivity, low self-esteem, or a need for control. These personality traits can make it more likely that people will engage in addictive behaviors.

Conclusion

The psychological models of addiction described above are just a few of the many theories that have been proposed to explain this complex disorder. While no single theory can fully explain addiction, these models can provide some insights into the underlying factors that contribute to this condition.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are many resources available to help. Please reach out for help if you need it.

Here are some additional resources for people struggling with addiction:

1. The National Institute on Drug Abuse: https://www.drugabuse.gov/
2. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: https://www.samhsa.gov/
3. The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence: https://www.ncadd.org/
4. The American Psychological Association: https://www.apa.org/topics/addiction/

 

References

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

Models for Explaining the Etiology of Addiction: The Moral Model

Models for Explaining the Etiology of Addiction: The Moral Model

 The moral model of addiction is a belief system that views addiction as a result of personal choice and moral weakness. Proponents of this model believe that addicts are responsible for their own addiction and should be punished for their behavior. This model is often based on religious beliefs and has been influential in the legal system.

The moral model is not supported by scientific evidence. There is no evidence that addicts are morally weak or that they choose to be addicted. Addiction is a complex disorder that is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, and mental health.

The moral model can be harmful to addicts. It can lead to feelings of shame and guilt, which can make it more difficult for them to seek help. It can also lead to discrimination and criminalization, which can make it harder for them to get jobs, housing, and other essential services.

The moral model is outdated and should be replaced with a more scientifically accurate model of addiction. This model should focus on understanding the causes of addiction and developing effective treatments. It should also focus on reducing stigma and discrimination against addicts.

Here are some additional points to consider:

The moral model is often used to justify punitive policies towards addicts, such as incarceration.

The moral model can be used to blame addicts for their own suffering, which can make it more difficult for them to recover.

The moral model can be used to deny addicts access to treatment and other resources.

It is important to remember that addiction is a complex disorder that is not the fault of the individual. Addicts need our compassion and support, not our judgment.

Resources

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 

 Why Do We Forget Our Dreams?

Dreams are a fascinating part of the human experience, but they are also notoriously difficult to remember. In fact, most people forget their dreams within minutes of waking up.

There are a number of reasons why we forget our dreams. One reason is that dreams are often very fleeting and ephemeral. They are made up of images, thoughts, and emotions that are often disconnected from each other. This makes them difficult to hold onto in the waking state.

Another reason why we forget our dreams is that they are often not very meaningful to us. Dreams can be about anything, from our deepest fears and desires to the most mundane everyday events. If a dream does not have any emotional significance for us, it is more likely to be forgotten.

Finally, the way we wake up can also affect our ability to remember our dreams. If we wake up suddenly or abruptly, we may not have enough time to process our dream and remember it. Conversely, if we wake up slowly and gradually, we are more likely to be able to remember our dream.

So, what can we do to improve our dream recall? Here are a few tips:

• Pay attention to your dreams as soon as you wake up. The sooner you start thinking about your dream, the more likely you are to remember it.
• Keep a dream journal. Writing down your dreams as soon as you wake up can help you to remember them more easily.
• Try to wake up slowly and gradually. This will give your brain more time to process your dream and remember it.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed. These substances can interfere with dream recall.
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine. This will help you to fall asleep more easily and have more vivid dreams.

By following these tips, you can improve your dream recall and learn more about your subconscious mind.

In addition to the reasons mentioned above, there are a few other factors that can contribute to the forgetting of dreams. For example, people who are sleep deprived or who have certain medical conditions, such as narcolepsy, are more likely to forget their dreams. Additionally, the way we dream can change over time. For example, children tend to have more vivid dreams than adults, and older adults may forget their dreams more easily.

Despite the challenges of remembering dreams, they can be a valuable source of information about ourselves. Dreams can reveal our hidden thoughts, feelings, and desires. They can also help us to process difficult experiences and to solve problems. By paying attention to our dreams, we can learn more about ourselves and our place in the world.

Resources

Freud, S. (1911). The Interpretation of Dreams (3rd ed.). Hayes Barton             Press. https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/L-999-74204

 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.                                                           

                                                                                    

‌

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 Research: Understanding Loss of Control and Continued Use 

• neurobiology research also investigates the loss of control.
• defined as continued drug use despite significant adverse consequences.
• 2 frontal areas of the brain are key components of the inhibitory pathway of the brain
• 
  the pathway that allows us to control our impulses. Neuroimaging studies suggest that compulsive behavior requires dysfunction within the ACC - Anterior cingulate cortex and OFC - Orbitofrontal cortex.
• neuroimaging studies suggest that compulsive behavior as seen in both intractable addiction and OCD requires dysfunction within the two highly interconnected cortical systems  ACC and OFC
• results from neuroimaging studies examining the effects of mindfulness practices on the brain have suggested future directions for addiction treatment and brain healing.
• Corticocobasal ganglia network
• Dorsal striatum
• plays a role in executive functioning and decision making 
• experiences increased dopaminergic signaling in the presence of drug abuse
• the brain pathway that begins from the VTA to the dorsal striatum is referred to as the habit circuit
• because of its role in conditioned learning
• Anterior cingulate cortex
• orbitofrontal cortex
• Mindfulness-based relapse prevention
• targets a reduction of cravings and relapse
• shows promise as an effective modality to be used in conjunction with other types of addictions treatment
• 
  
  
  As compulsive using and drinking continue the brain sustains physical damage and becomes less capable of unlearning
• continued emphasis on brain circuitry alteration can assist counselors in improving their understanding and empathy when the addict can not " just learn to stop"
• Neuroimaging has revealed a number of additional findings related to the effects of drug and alcohol use on the brain
• cue reactivity
• the array of psychological, physiological, and behavioral effects elicited by drug-related stimuli.
• Imaging studies have identified the visual cortex as an important part of drug cue reactivity and demonstrated with remarkable consistency that substance-dependent individuals have significantly higher activity in the primary and secondary visual cortices when exposed to drug versus nondrug cue
• this finding is supportive of the hypothesis that attentional bias to drug cues may be a biomarker for addiction and has implications for the ability to predict relapse.
• Other neuroimaging studies have supported the relationship between drug cue reactivity and length and intensity of drug use, addiction severity, relapse risk, use-associated problems, and treatment outcomes and highlighted the role that individual factors play in neural reactivity to drug cues.
• Neuroimaging studies have demonstrated the effect of drugs on the brain's functioning long after substances have been eliminate from the body
• about 20 million people with alcoholism in the USA have some degree of brain damage
• highlighted imaging studies that determined relapsers showed increased atrophy in the bilateral orbitofrontal cortex and in the right medial prefrontal cortex and ACC
• Brain areas associated with error monitoring
• 
  
  
  researchers have determined that some alcoholics seem to exhibit more damage to the right hemisphere of the brain than the left hemisphere and significant brain volume shrinkage.
• cocaine dependence appears to result in a marked reduction of gray matter  in the prefrontal cortex, especially the orbitofrontal cortex
• research also suggests that depending on age the brain of the detoxified alcoholic appears as ravaged as that of a patient with Alzheimer's disease
• substantial changes have been noted in the hippocampus of youth who engage in binge drinking.
• the brain's ability to form new cells is disrupted by addiction
• new brain cells are created from the division of neural stem cells
• a process called neurogenesis
• alcohol can significantly disrupt neurogenesis
• Promising new approaches in the treatment of cocaine addiction may involve neurosurgical procedures such as deep brain stimulation.
• currently used with certain patients with Parkinson's disease
• the effect of deep brain stimulation in the subthalamic nucleus of rats has found evidence of a decrease in motivation for further cocaine
• extensive research with PET scans and other neuroimaging technology will add to the knowledge of the cause's effects and treatment of addiction
• these imaging tools are adding to the addiction specialist's treatment toolbox and may make it possible to develop biomarkers to predict disease trajectories and therapeutic outcomes that are necessary for individualized medicine and optimal patient care.
  

                                                      

  Resources

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

Neurotransmitters and Addiction

 

Neurotransmitters

 Neurobiology and the Physiology of

Addiction

                                    References

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