A Deadly Mix: Methamphetamine and Fentanyl

The opioid crisis continues to devastate communities across the United States, with fentanyl at the forefront. But a disturbing trend has been emerging: the mixing of fentanyl with methamphetamine, creating a particularly hazardous combination.

Why the Danger?

Potent Synergy: Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, 50 - 100 times stronger than morphine. Methamphetamine is a stimulant. Combining them creates an unpredictable and lethal effect.

Contamination: Sadly, fentanyl is often illegally manufactured and added to other drugs without the user's knowledge. This means someone using meth could unknowingly be taking a lethal dose of fentanyl.

Increased Risk of Death:  A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that nearly two-thirds of fatal meth overdoses involve fentanyl or heroin (CDC).

Death Statistics Paint a Grim Picture

Overdose Epidemic: According to the CDC, over 106,000 people died from drug overdoses in 2021, with fentanyl being a significant contributor (CDC).

Methamphetamine's Resurgence: Deaths from methamphetamine overdoses have increased dramatically. The CDC reports a 50-fold increase between 1999 and 2021 (CDC). The rise of fentanyl adds another layer of danger to this already concerning trend.

What Can We Do?

Raising Awareness: Educating the public about the dangers of mixing meth and fentanyl is crucial. This blog post is a small step, but spreading the message is essential.

Harm Reduction Strategies: Increasing access to harm reduction resources like naloxone (Narcan), a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses, can save lives.

Seeking Help: If you or someone you know struggles with substance abuse, please seek help. There are many resources available, including hotlines and treatment centers.

Getting Help

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• Find a Treatment Facility: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Treatment Facility Locator

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). National Institute on Drug Abuse. Retrieved May 7, 2024, from https://www.samhsa.gov/

From Doc Ock's Tentacles to Thanos' Snap: A Look at America's Public Health Crisis

The United States has a long history of confronting public health threats. Two epidemics, though separated by decades, share disturbing parallels: the AIDS epidemic of the 1980s and the current fentanyl crisis. But this story doesn't end there. More recently, the COVID-19 pandemic has swept the globe, posing a unique challenge with its rapid spread and ongoing mutations. This blog post will explore the age, impact, and government response to these crises.

A Silent Threat Emerges: The Early Days

1. The AIDS Epidemic (1981 - Present): The first cases of AIDS were identified in the United States in 1981, primarily among gay men. The cause, HIV, remained a mystery for several years, leading to fear and misunderstanding (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023).
2. The Fentanyl Crisis (Late 2010s - Present): Fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, began appearing illegally in the late 2010s, often laced into counterfeit pills or heroin. Overdoses skyrocketed as users were unaware of the presence of fentanyl (National Institute on Drug Abuse, n.d.)
3. The COVID-19 Pandemic (2019 - Present):  The novel coronavirus emerged in late 2019 and quickly spread worldwide. COVID-19 causes respiratory illness with varying severity and remains a threat due to new variants (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023).

• AIDS: AIDS deaths rose steadily throughout the 1980s, peaking in the mid-1990s and peaking in the mid-1990s, with over 50,000 fatalities reported in the United States alone. The development of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the mid-1990s dramatically reduced deaths, but AIDS remains a global health concern (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023).
  
• Fentanyl: Fentanyl-related deaths have risen sharply since the late 2010s. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), over 106,000 deaths involving synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl, were reported in the United States in 2021 (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2023).
• COVID-19: As of May 10, 2024, over a million deaths from COVID-19 have been reported in the United States alone (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023). The ongoing emergence of variants necessitates continued vigilance.

A Look at Government Responses

This is a general overview of the evolving responses:

1. AIDS: The initial response was slow, marked by limited funding and public silence. However, pressure led to increased funding, research, and public education campaigns.
2. Fentanyl: The initial focus was on law enforcement efforts. However, the crisis necessitated a shift towards harm reduction strategies like broader access to naloxone.
3. COVID-19: The government implemented lockdowns, social distancing measures, and mask mandates.  Additionally, funding was allocated for vaccine research, development, and distribution.

Lessons Learned and Ongoing Challenges

Each crisis highlights the importance of scientific research, public health communication, and addressing societal stigma. We must learn from the past to effectively confront current and future threats.

Beyond the Numbers: A Call to Action

While statistics paint a grim picture, it's crucial to remember the human cost. These crises have devastated countless lives. We must remain vigilant, support public health initiatives, and advocate for evidence-based solutions. By working together, we can build more resilient future-facing public health challenges.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, May 10). HIV/AIDS. https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/default.html
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, May 10). COVID-19. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
3. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/what-we-do/nih-almanac/national-institute-drug-abuse-nid

Unleash Your Rebel Heart: Embracing the Road Less Traveled.

 

This idea of embracing the unknown resonates with the message of Lauren Alaina's empowering song,  "Road Less Traveled." In the song, she encourages listeners to "trust your rebel heart and ride into battle," perfectly capturing the essence of venturing onto the path less traveled...

We all have that voice inside that whispers or sometimes shouts about a different path, a bolder voice. It's the rebel heart, yearning for adventure and a life less ordinary. This Mental Health Awareness Month, let's celebrate the power of embracing that inner rebel and venturing onto the road less traveled.

Why the "Road Less Traveled" Matters

Society often pushes towards well-worn paths. The safe choices, the predictable routines. But where's the growth in that? The truth is that true fulfillment usually lies beyond the comfort zone. The road less traveled might be challenging, but it's also where we discover hidden strengths, forge unique connections, and create a life that genuinely reflects our passions.

Trusting Your Rebel Heart

Here is the thing: trusting your rebel heart takes courage. Fear of the unknown, failure,
or disappointing others can hold us back. But what if we flipped the script? Imagine the possibilities that open up when we listen to our intuition and take a leap of faith.

Zero F**ks About It

We all have that voice that whispers or sometimes screams doubts, insecurities, and negativity into our ears. It's the inner critic, the resident gremlin in the mental real estate we call our minds.

This voice can be paralyzing. It tells us we're not good enough, that we'll fail, and that everyone judges us. It thrives on fear and insecurity, holding us back from taking risks and pursuing our dreams.

But what if we told that voice to shut up? What if we stopped giving a sing f**k about its negativity.

Here's the thing: you can. It's not about silencing the voice entirely because that will not happen. It is about detaching from it and refusing to let it control your actions.

Here's How to Give Zero F**cks About Your Negative Inner Thoughts

Identify the voice: The first step is becoming aware of your inner critic. Notice the patterns. When does it show up the most? What kind of things does it say? Once you identify it, you start the separation.

• Reframe the narrative: Don't believe everything your inner critic tells you. It's a drama queen with a superiority complex. When it starts with its negativity, challenge it! Is it really true, or is it fear talking? Reframe those negative thoughts into something more empowering.
• Acknowledge and move on: Sometimes, acknowledging the negativity is enough. You don't need to engage in a full-blown debate with your inner critic. Thanks for the input, and then move on with your day.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Focus on the Facts: The inner critic deals with emotions and worst-case scenarios. Counter it with facts. What evidence do you have to support your inner critic's negativity? There's little. Focus on your strengths and accomplishments.
• Develop self-compassion: We all have negative thoughts. It's part of the human experience. Please don't beat yourself up about it. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend.
• Celebrate small wins: Focus on progress, not perfection. Every time you silence your inner critic and take action, celebrate! This reinforces positive behavior and builds confidence.
• Remember

Giving zero f**ks about your negative thoughts isn't about arrogance. It is about self-belief, trusting yourself and your ability to navigate life's challenges, taking back control of your mind, and refusing to be ruled by fear and insecurity.

Though We're Together, We Hold Ourselves Apart

We share this space, this life we've built together. Yet, lately, there's a chilling sense of distance, a wall silently erected between myself and sanity. Though we're together, we hold ourselves apart. It's like living with a roommate you can't seem to communicate with anymore.

The routine used to be a comforting symphony- the gurgle of the coffee maker, the familiar path to work. Now, it plays out in a muted haze. The world feels slightly off-kilter, the once-vibrant colors dulled by a layer of grey. Conversations with loved ones become strained, their voices muffled by a fog in your head. This internal dissonance is a hallmark of many mental health battles. It can be anxiety, a relentless voice whispering doubts. It can be depression, a heavyweight that steals your motivation. The reasons may differ, but the feeling is universal: adrift in a sea of familiarity, utterly disconnected from who you used to be. 

Sharing the Rent, Not the Burden

The good news is that this silent roommate doesn't have to be your sole tenant. Mental health conditions are more common than you think, and resources are available. Therapy becomes a lifeline, a trusted confidante who can help you navigate these turbulent waters. They can act as a mediator, fostering communication between you and your sanity, rebuilding the bridge that's been compromised.

Mending the Walls, Mending Ourselves

The journey back won't be a quick eviction notice. It requires self-compassion, patience, and a
willingness to confront the discomfort. Here are some tools to help you reclaim your space:

1. Acknowledge the Distance: Don't ignore the growing rift. Recognize that your internal dialogue has shifted, and that's okay.
   
2. Seek Professional Help: A therapist can help you understand the root of the disconnect and develop strategies to bridge the gap.
3. Prioritize Self-Care: This isn't selfishness; it's essential maintenance. Prioritize activities that nourish your mind and body – meditation, nature walks, or simply spending time with supportive loved ones.
4. Open Communication: Talking openly about your struggles with a trusted friend or family can be incredibly liberating.

Remember, regaining sanity isn't about kicking out your difficult roommate but learning to co-exist. With courage, self-compassion, and the right support system, you can break down the walls, rebuild communication, and reclaim your place in this shared space called life. The journey might be messy, but the peace on the other side is worth it.

Grieving the Ghost: How Addiction Recovery Mirrors the Stages of Grief

 Many see the path to addiction recovery as a heroic journey. They see it as a fight against a powerful pull, a relentless battle for control. It just isn't that glamorous. It is a deeply personal process. You are fighting for your life like you have never had to fight before. The fight leaves you with a profound sense of loss. One way to see this loss is through the lens of the five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.

Denial: This Isn't Me

The initial stages of recovery are marked by denial. You may resist the idea that your life has been significantly impacted by your substance abuse. You might minimize the consequences or cling to the belief that you can still use recreationally. This denial has to be a defense mechanism to avoid the overwhelming reality of change.

Anger: This is Unfair

As reality sets in, anger bubbles up. You are angry for succumbing to addiction, enraged at the substance for its hold over you. You're angry at loved ones who may have enabled the behavior. You can't imagine the anger and hate that you feel.  You may not know this, but that anger can fuel your determination to break free.

Bargaining: Just One More Time

You attempt to regain control by making deals. You promise yourself just one more time if you achieve a specific goal. You may even bargain with a higher power for a reprieve from addiction. These bargains are never successful. They merely highlight your intense desire to find an easier way out.

Depression: What Have I Lost?

As denial's fog lifts, you see the full impact of your addiction. This almost always leads to a period of deep depression; there are a lot of things to grieve, like relationships, missed opportunities, and even your sense of self associated with your past life. In this crucial stage, you see and feel a deeper understanding of the damage caused by your addiction.

Acceptance: I Can Do This

Here, you are not giving up hope, but instead, you are acknowledging the reality of your situation. You accept that you have a chronic condition that requires ongoing management.  Acceptance will allow you to focus on building a new life free from the shackles of substance abuse.

The Journey

These stages are not linear and are filled with setbacks, moments of doubt, and revisits to earlier stages. By understanding the process, you can navigate the journey with greater self-compassion. The death that you are grieving is your former self, a sacrifice for a healthier, more fulfilling future.

Remember, you are not alone. If you are struggling with addiction, there are many resources available to help. Here are a few:

1. The National Institute on Drug Abuse: https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/what-we-do/nih-almanac/national-institute-drug-abuse-nida
2. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/
3. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/Home

Oversharing on Social Media: A Look at College Students' Habits and Beyond

 The Landscape of Social Sharing

Social media has become an integrated part of our lives, revolutionizing how we connect and share information. Self-disclosure, revealing personal details, is a cornerstone of social media use. People share photos, videos, and life updates for various reasons, including seeking social validation, expressing themselves creatively, and maintaining relationships.

The Line Between Sharing and Oversharing

However, the line between sharing and oversharing can be blurry. Oversharing refers to disclosing excessive personal information online, often to the point of discomfort for oneself or others. This study investigates how college students define and perceive oversharing, offering valuable insights into this complex behavior.

Understanding What College Students Consider Oversharing

The research explored what college students consider oversharing. Interestingly, two main themes emerged, according to  Brammer and colleagues (2022):

1. Frequency: Posting too often or too much was a common concern. Quantity seemed to matter - students felt bombarded by excessive updates from friends or acquaintances.
2. Content: Sharing too much information or private things was another central theme. Many students felt that oversharing sensitive details about medical issues, political views, relationship drama, or overly emotional experiences crossed a boundary.

Types of Content and Tolerance Levels

The study examined the types of content students associated with  oversharing(Brammer et al., 2022) : 

• It also investigated tolerance for oversharing and its consequences, including medical issues, political views, relationship details, and overly emotional statements. 
• The research suggests that some college students are intolerant of oversharing and may unfollow or unfriend those who do it excessively. 
• This aligns with previous findings that highlight the potential consequences of oversharing, such as creating a negative reputation or jeopardizing job opportunities.

Oversharing on Different Platforms: A Facebook Focus

Brammer and colleagues (2022) found that Facebook was perceived as the platform where oversharing occurs most frequently. This may be linked to Facebook's focus on connecting with a wider social circle compared to other platforms designed for more curated presentations of oneself, like Instagram and Snapchat.

New Research Directions: Broadening the Conversation

This research offers valuable insights but also highlights areas for further exploration. According to Brammer and colleagues (2022), here are some key takeaways that open doors for future studies:

The study's sample primarily consisted of Caucasian females. A more diverse sample could provide different perspectives on oversharing behaviors. Including students from various ethnicities, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds could reveal how cultural norms and social media usage patterns influence what constitutes oversharing.

Including qualitative methods like focus groups or in-depth interviews could delve deeper into oversharing, the emotional impact of witnessing it, and how users navigate boundaries on different platforms.

Studying other age groups is crucial as social norms for sharing likely differ across generations. How do baby boomers, Gen Xers, and adults beyond college define and approach oversharing? Understanding these variations can help us create a more nuanced picture of this phenomenon.

The rise of video-centric platforms like TikTok raises new questions about nonverbal oversharing. Can someone reveal too much about themselves through facial expressions, body language, or video background without saying a word? Exploring this new frontier of social media communication is essential to comprehensively understanding oversharing in the digital age.

Conclusion

This study illuminates oversharing behaviors among college students and highlights the importance of finding a balance between self-disclosure and privacy on social media. Brammer and colleagues (2022) state that further research, incorporating diverse samples, qualitative methods, and a more comprehensive range of age groups and platforms, can help us understand overshadowing across the ever-evolving social media landscape.

                               References

Brammer, S. E., Punyanunt-Carter, N. M., & Duffee, R. S. (2022). Oversharing on social networking sites: A contemporary communication phenomenon [Review of Oversharing on social networking sites: A contemporary communication phenomenon]. Computers in Human Behavior Reports, 8. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chbr.2022.100236