Opioid Replacement Therapy During Drug Detox


Opioid Replacement Therapy is a powerful tool to help people who are addicted to opiate-based drugs like heroin, morphine or Oxycontin detox safely. While the ultimate goal of opioid replacement therapy is an eventual complete abstinence from all opioid drugs, it has a number of other features that benefit drug addicts and the communities where they live. This includes fewer instances of disease transmission, a reduction in crime related to drug-seeking behavior and fewer overdose deaths and suicides.
Opioid Replacement Therapy: How it Works
Drugs like heroin are potent and fast-acting. This means that the euphoric effects are felt almost immediately and are intense but short-lived. This type of therapy works by providing addicts with a similar opiate-based drug that produces less intense euphoric effects, but lasts much longer.
The idea is to slowly wean the addict off the stronger, fast-acting illicit chemicals and gradually reduce the dosage of the opioid replacement therapy drugs until abstinence is achieved. This type of therapy reduces the severity and duration of the effects of Acute Withdrawal Syndrome; a significant barrier to treatment for many opioid addicts.
There are 3 primary drugs currently in use, although some nations use different drugs and some permit the use of morphine and even heroin to treat certain types of addicts. In general drugs used during detox and subsequent drug treatment for opiates include:
*Methadone: One of the most widely used opioid replacement therapy drugs; methadone is also commonly diverted for street use despite significant controls.
*Buprenorphine/Suboxone: Once marketed as a powerful analgesic to treat patients with chronic pain and post-surgical patients, buprenorphine is a leading drugs used in opioid replacement therapy, overtaking the popular methadone in many clinics.
*Naltrexone: Used to treat both alcohol and opiate dependence, naltrexone works by directly affecting the receptor sites where neurotransmission resulting in euphoria occurs.
Why Opioid Replacement Therapy during Drug Detox?
This treatment results in significant benefits when compared to traditional drug detox methods. This includes the ability of treatment professionals to properly dose the addict in an effort to reduce or eliminate withdrawal symptoms - especially severe drug cravings and the potential for respiratory depression and other medical complications.
The therapy generally produces a higher patient retention level, keeping addicts in treatment for a longer period of time than traditional methods. It also reduces the amount of illicit drugs consumed by patients, as the patient needs less illicit substances to achieve the effects they seek.
Overall, addicts on opioid replacement therapy protocols generally abstain earlier and stay clean for longer than addicts who are treated using other protocols or no treatment at all.
Regardless of eventual complete abstinence rates (which are regrettably low), the benefits of opioid replacement therapy to addicts and their communities are immense. By stabilizing addicts with this treatment, many people are able to get their lives back in order, despite the


What Are the 10 Warning Signs of Alcoholism?


Based on statistics, the problem of alcoholism is quite a major problem in the United States that not only affects families but also affects society as a whole. Although the following signs should not be interpreted as a diagnosis, but valuable warnings or clues are provided that the patient is an alcoholic.


Following 10 warning signs of alcoholism:
1. Drinking alone: Most people tend to drink once in a while on special occasions or in social gatherings, which is considered normal. However, some people prefer to drink alone. Drinking alone implies a need for alcohol and is a warning sign.
2. Lying about the alcohol consumption: When people know that others might perceive their drinking negatively, they tend to consistently lie to others about how much alcohol they consume, which is another warning sign.
3. High tolerance to alcohol: If the use of alcohol is steadily increased, a drinker feels the need to consume to consume more alcohol to become intoxicated.
4. Drinking more than others: Another warning sign is when people prefer to stay at a bar or party longer their friends and they drinking a lot more.
5. Drinking upon awakening: If people wake up in the morning and the first thing they do right after getting up is drink alcohol, whether they feel like drinking or to cure a hangover, it is another warning sign.
6. Consuming more alcohol than before: Another warning sign is when people become dependent on alcohol and starts steadily drinking more alcohol than they had been drinking earlier.
7. Experiencing blackouts: Blackouts are also considered among the warning signs. Alcoholism is often a factor if the occurrence of blackouts is quite frequent and it also means that the drinker cannot stop drinking.
8. Drinking to calm stress or tension: If alcohol is used as a coping mechanism in order to deal with stress, then it might not necessarily be a sign of alcoholism, but it this habit ultimately leads to alcoholism.
9. Alcohol-related accidents/Legal problems: Intoxication often causes people to get injured, whether they get into a physical altercation because of being intoxicated or they drive while intoxicated. This is also a sign of alcoholism.
10. Withdrawal from friends and family: When friends and family members of an alcoholic express their disapproval or concern about their drinking habits, an alcoholic usually tends to become annoyed of them.
As mentioned earlier, alcoholism can not be precisely diagnosed with these signs. However, these signs certainly strongly indicate that an individual might be moving toward alcoholism. A person might already be an alcoholic if most of the mentioned signs are present. Alcoholism is a problem that does not only devastate the alcoholics but the people around them as well. Therefore, these 10 warning signs of alcoholism should not be taken lightly. If you or anyone you know is exhibiting any of these signs, then it could mean they are alcoholic.



Five Criteria for Choosing a Drug Rehab

Recovering from drug addiction needs commitment and determination from the part of the individual. Choosing the right rehab center is another factor that will greatly help in the success of the treatment. A good rehab center provides a perfect environment where the individuals can relax and focus on leading a normal life, away from the claws of addiction. The place should have a clear and effective treatment program and able personnel who can keep inmates motivated.
Choosing a drug rehab could be a daunting task since there are many centers out there offering different programs. Here are 5 ways that will help you in choosing the one that would suit your needs.
Many private rehab centers tend to be pricey and are made for the rich and famous. But if you search hard enough you could find a private rehab that suits your budget and offer a good program. High end rehab centers come with many comforts like swimming pool, gym and luxuriously furnished rooms etc...
Having a great health insurance which covers a substantial amount of the costs could help you in getting into private facilities. So the first thing to do is to approach your carrier. They will help you in finding out your treatment options and plans.
If you do not have insurance or your carrier does not cover rehab costs, there are many public and subsidized facilities that you may approach.
2. Location
A rehab center which is closer to home would be the best choice. The support of the family is very important in drug rehabilitation and having your house at a close distance would make a lot of difference. Family visits and family therapy sessions can be easily organized with a rehab center that is situated close.
3. Methods of Treatment
There are many treatment methods used by rehab centers in treating addiction. Choosing a rehab that uses methods that is not suitable to you could ruin the entire program.
Most of the facilities use the traditional 12-step program in treating addiction. This method is has its base in spirituality and religion. If you are not comfortable with this approach, try centers which use other treatment methods.
4. Therapy and Aftercare
The most important part in choosing a drug rehab is analyzing their treatment program. You can assess the program personally by going through their program outlines or request someone's help in doing so. Talking to individuals who have already gone through rehab and getting opinions from support groups also help.
The two main things apart from the general treatment methods are the individual counseling and aftercare therapy. The availability of a psychologist to conduct regular one-on-one sessions has proved to be beneficial in the recovery process. A rehab center with these two facilities could be a better choice.
5. Comforts
Drug rehab is a grueling and intense task. A rehab center where even the minimal comforts are lacking could make the journey tougher. This is a place an individual might be required to stay for long periods. So, wanting to get out of the rehab quickly could ruin all your efforts done in getting better.
If you're looking for a drug rehab with a high success rate, visit Drug Rehab in Chiang Mai.


What You Should know About Meth Addiction


Methamphetamine is a dangerous and addictive drug which is a problem not only for the user, but for society as a whole. Methamphetamine addiction leads to an increase number of crimes and criminal activity ranging from theft, DWI, endangering of children and more. Production of meth has increased dramatically in American since the mid-1990s. According to Wikipedia Indiana state police found 1,260 labs in 2003 to only 6 in 1995. Methamphetamine production ranges from large scale production in super labs on foreign soil to domestic small time labs in trailer parks. In the United States of America, methamphetamine is a Schedule II stimulant, which means it is legally only available by a doctor's prescription. Prescribed uses for methamphetamine include attention deficit disorder, obesity and even in some cases narcolepsy.
Crystal, crank, ice, speed, whatever you call it methamphetamine is a powerful stimulant that has damaging side effects when abused. The frequent use of methamphetamine can lead to long term damage to the central nervous system. Brain images of meth addicts show that users dopamine transporters and receptors have been permanently damaged. After the dopamine system has been damaged users can experience anhedonia, which is the inability to experience pleasure. After the addiction has been addressed and the person is sober, it can be months before the brain begins to effectively produce and regulate dopamine.
The pleasurable side effects from meth are what lead users to develop their meth addiction. Patients describe an intense pleasurable rush that hits them once the drug has been ingested. Methamphetamine can be smoked, snorted or injected which can compound the health side effects from the drug use. Smoking provides the quickest fix for the user, whereas snorting provides effects that can last for a longer time. This intense rush can lead to addicts becoming hooked even after their first use of the drug. Meth mouth is an additional adverse health side effect associated with meth addiction. Meth mouth is a condition where methamphetamine users have a profound and quick loss of teeth. The American Dental Association believes the tooth loss is the result of a variety of factors induced from meth use including, poor oral hygiene, poor diet, poor sleep habits and excessive teeth grinding.
Besides the health issues facing the meth users themselves, methamphetamine creates a number of public health issues. The production of meth and the exposure to dangerous chemicals are a common risk created by meth. The meth labs are often run by people high on drugs themselves resulting in dangerous fires and explosions. The rush of methamphetamine can lead to risky sexual behavior which continues the spread of STDs like HIV/AIDS. Meth addiction is so strong that pregnant women often times pass the addiction on to their unborn child.
Meth addiction is a problem that often times requires clinical intervention to successfully reach a full long term stable recovery. A drug rehab center that specializes in handling methamphetamine cases would be an ideal solution. Nearly 90% of meth users will experience some sort of symptom when withdrawing from methamphetamine, which often times leads to a relapse, which is why many doctors would recommend a detox program in a clinical setting.



Why Do I Heed to Quit Smoking?

Why people should stop smoking? It is not forbidden by

law, it helps to relieve stress, relax and calm down. And

what about health problems? Sometimes it seems that

no one cares till it's too late. And still that's not all.



Smokers are physically, psychologically, behaviorally,

socially and even emotionally addictive. That scares,

doesn't it?



Do everything you can to quit smoking is what many ex-

smokers suggest doing. Sometimes it is enough to read

a single review to understand that this is not simply a

habit, but a real problem that affects all the parts of your

body and all the spheres of your life. Why people should

stop smoking?



First and foremost because tobacco

triggers health problems, among which cancer takes the

first place. Inhaling makes the breath smelly and stains

teeth, leads to gum diseases and permanent tooth loss.

What about cost? Cigarettes affect the wallet as well.



The average cost is nearly $6 per one pack, and if a

person smokes 20-30 cigarettes per day, he will have to

spend around $80 per week, which has a negative

influence on the bank balance.



Stop Smoking to Pile up the Rewards! All smokers are

egoists. It sounds somehow strange, but that's true. They

can be indifferent to their own health, but what about

people who surround them at work and at home?



Mothers who smoke give birth to babies with asthma and

other breathing disorders. Quitting smoking they improve

both their own health and the health of their children,

born and unborn.



And finally, just within a couple of hours after saying no

to cigarettes, one's body is getting a little bit healthier, the

risk for heart diseases decreases and an ex-smoker gets

a chance to live a longer and happier life.



Do you still don't understand why people should stop smoking and how

to get someone to stop smoking?

Health risks are not everything a smoker triggers.



According to the latest researches of the AACAP,

additional risks include changes on the mental level,

when a person uses weapon, gets into fights and looks

for troubles with legal consequences. Experimenting with

tobacco, many teens decide to experiments with other

drugs.



Why should people stop smoking? Nicotine is a

gateway drug that influences out abilities, mind, health

and feelings. So everyone should decide which way is

better: not to live a normal life or not to smoke.



More info at http://howtogetsomeonetostopsmoking.org

Five Criteria for Choosing a Drug Rehab

Recovering from drug addiction needs commitment and determination from the part of the individual. Choosing the right rehab center is another factor that will greatly help in the success of the treatment. A good rehab center provides a perfect environment where the individuals can relax and focus on leading a normal life, away from the claws of addiction. The place should have a clear and effective treatment program and able personnel who can keep inmates motivated.
Choosing a drug rehab could be a daunting task since there are many centers out there offering different programs. Here are 5 ways that will help you in choosing the one that would suit your needs.
1. Cost of the Rehabilitation Program
Many private rehab centers tend to be pricey and are made for the rich and famous. But if you search hard enough you could find a private rehab that suits your budget and offer a good program. High end rehab centers come with many comforts like swimming pool, gym and luxuriously furnished rooms etc...
Having a great health insurance which covers a substantial amount of the costs could help you in getting into private facilities. So the first thing to do is to approach your carrier. They will help you in finding out your treatment options and plans.
If you do not have insurance or your carrier does not cover rehab costs, there are many public and subsidized facilities that you may approach.
2. Location
A rehab center which is closer to home would be the best choice. The support of the family is very important in drug rehabilitation and having your house at a close distance would make a lot of difference. Family visits and family therapy sessions can be easily organized with a rehab center that is situated close.
3. Methods of Treatment
There are many treatment methods used by rehab centers in treating addiction. Choosing a rehab that uses methods that is not suitable to you could ruin the entire program.
Most of the facilities use the traditional 12-step program in treating addiction. This method is has its base in spirituality and religion. If you are not comfortable with this approach, try centers which use other treatment methods.
The most important part in choosing a drug rehab is analyzing their treatment program. You can assess the program personally by going through their program outlines or request someone's help in doing so. Talking to individuals who have already gone through rehab and getting opinions from support groups also help.
The two main things apart from the general treatment methods are the individual counseling and aftercare therapy. The availability of a psychologist to conduct regular one-on-one sessions has proved to be beneficial in the recovery process. A rehab center with these two facilities could be a better choice.
5. Comforts
Drug rehab is a grueling and intense task. A rehab center where even the minimal comforts are lacking could make the journey tougher. This is a place an individual might be required to stay for long periods. So, wanting to get out of the rehab quickly could ruin all your efforts done in getting better.
If you're looking for a drug rehab with a high success rate, visit Drug Rehab in Chiang Mai.

Choosing From Different Drug Rehab Programs


Drug rehabilitation is of essence when one accepts his/her problem. Being a drug addict, it is already a fundamental step to acknowledge that something needs to be done to stop your addiction. Acting quickly and properly is the key here, before ending up getting deeper into the drug addiction. The final result is to make you a better person, and it could ultimately save your life too. Fortunately nowadays there are various institutions that offer drug rehab programs so as to help drug addicts treat their problem.
First of all, before choosing just any one of the drug rehab facilities out there, it is important to consider the types of rehabilitation programs they are offering. Some programs may be better than others. You should not restrict yourself to evident factors, such as the duration of the rehab program, and the costs involved. You should take into account other things such as whether the staff members at this facility are certified, and if the facility itself is accredited. It is also important to ask what is the staff to client ratio and how long has the facility been operating.
You should also check out if they allow the drug addict's family to be involved in the treatment process. Some facilities may have a waiting list. You may also wish to check out if the facility offers detoxification, and if they offer any follow-up programs once the rehab program has been finished. This is an important factor as it can help avoid a relapse.

Each individual's needs are different. Some may be more severely addicted than others. Generally, the longer and more intense the addiction has been, the longer the drug treatment will need to be. Specialized attention should be given to each client at the drug rehab center, so as to ensure that his/her needs are tackled professionally and appropriately.
The facility you choose should offer a drug rehab program that is not only proven to be effective in most of the cases, but it should be substantiated with support and long-term follow-ups. A good drug rehab program does not only aim to treat the drug problem, but it should go beyond that. The staff should be professional enough to understand the emotional needs of the drug addict. Usually one will have gone through a lot of problems, and these may have contributed to the drug addiction. Therefore, the staff that offers these programs should practically become the friends of the drug addicts. A helpful and friendly approach is imperative in these cases.
It is a good idea to check out some statistics of the success rates of the facility's treatment methods. The facility should offer different types of drug rehab programs. Besides intensive residential treatments, some drug addicts may require partial hospitalization. Others may simply need an intensive out-patient program, counseling and support. The facility should be properly staffed and equipped. It should be maintained professionally so as to provide a supportive drug-free environment.

Drug Rehab Centers: Understanding Substance Abuse Treatment Options


Research shows that millions of people around the world abuse drugs and alcohol. Substance abusers exhibit different temperaments, strange behaviors and hurt people around them when substance cravings worsen. Quitting substance dependence can be tough as addicts can experience a number of withdrawal symptoms. This makes the entire process even more complex for them. Substance dependence warrants instant treatment since overlooking the condition can lead to serious problems. There are a number of substance abuse treatment options that helps addicts work towards sobriety.
This treatment requires patients to live at the center for a certain period of time so that their behavior can be monitored. Treatment period can be 30 days to 1 year although research shows that it can take at least 6 months for a successful result. This kind treatment program is particularly effectual for criminal inmates, substance-abusing youths, as well as people who have lengthy histories of drug addiction. The aim of this kind of treatment is to help patients live a substance free and a crime free life. Recovering addicts will be given support to battle the sickening signs of withdrawal syndrome.



In this type of treatment program, recovering addicts meet 3 days a week for about 2 to 4 hours per session. Intensive outpatient program can be programmed around work or school to enable addicts to carry on with their daily activities, while still seeking substance abuse assistance. The cost of this program is less compared to that of inpatient treatment making it an excellent choice for most people struggling with substance addiction. Outpatient centers provide behavioral treatments to assist recovering addicts make smart decisions and to lead better lives.
When recovering addicts leave residential treatment, they are faced with many challenges. To help them stay on track and avoid setbacks, they are sent to sober living centers. This can either be a house or an apartment where they will meet other patients who have walked the path and are also trying to remain sober. Here they can help out each other. Sober living is excellent for those addicts who are influenced by other people or places around them.
Counseling is a very effective program when combined with other types of treatment programs, rather than on its own. This type of treatment approach is intrinsic in virtually every kind of treatment. A psychologist will assist recovering individual find the main cause of their addiction and learn new ways so that they can make wise decisions. Counseling sessions can be in groups, one-on-one, or even family-oriented depending on the center. Often times, recovering addicts can attend sessions during evening or even weekend hours.
Medical Detox
Medical detox typically starts with a visit to an emergency room. Often times, this kind of treatment is for serious substance abusers and who are in danger of relapsing. For the most part, people have a one-on-one kind of treatment, although group counseling might also be available. Detox program is used to stop relapse through regular meetings.
These treatment programs can help substance addicts recover from substance abuse and live healthier lives.


3 Triggers to Avoid Addiction Relapse During the Holidays



In earlier articles about how to avoid a relapse, we mentioned that you need to have a plan when tempting circumstances and difficult challenges arise.
With that in mind, the holidays present a whole new set of circumstances that can trigger a relapse, and you need to recognize what they are so you can be ready for of them.
Here are 3 major holiday circumstances than can trigger a relapse of alcohol or drug addiction along with how to avoid or prepare for them.
1. Stress from holiday shopping
Stress is especially prevalent during the holidays because of all the shopping and traveling involved. It might be tempting to cope with the hustle and bustle by going back to drinking or drugs.
To avoid this temptation, follow these tips to keep from stressing out during the holidays:
  • Lower your expectations - You may want to be in 20 places at once, but don't take on more responsibilities than you can handle. Don't be afraid to say "no" when someone invites you to a holiday event. Take some time for yourself and relax.
  • Set a schedule - Keeping yourself organized during the holidays will keep yourself from feeling overwhelmed. So put it all on paper instead of your head.
  • Get plenty of sleep - It might be tempting to push your bedtime back one more hour to get something else done. But if you're tired and stressed, you'll get less done and be tempted to fall back into old addictions. Get eight hours of sleep to keep your mind fresh and able to resist temptations.
2. Depression due to public expectations
Every form of advertising you can think of shows a consistent message during Christmas time: the holiday season is a time of happiness with family.
But life isn't like what we see on TV. Some people either have family they won't be able to see for the holidays, or family they will see but have drama or conflicts with.
Seeing all these happy images that you can't experience may lead to depression, which can lead to seeking comfort in alcohol or drugs.
If you're away from family or have a drama-filled family, make sure you find a loving group of people you can surround yourself with.
If you're going through a 12-step program, which normally has accountability groups, have a list of friendly people you can call from that group to meet up and keep you accountable.
There are a variety of other things you can do to fight depression as well.
3. The "wrong" holiday parties
Avoid parties where people who encouraged you in your old habits are attending. They have an influence on you and can cause you to relapse.
If you're a recovering alcoholic, it would be best to avoid parties that serve alcohol. But if you do go to one that does, let people there know why you're avoiding alcohol so they can hold you accountable.
Always be on guard!
This obviously is a short list of holiday-related relapse triggers but they are common among most people. When it comes down to it, only you know what causes you to relapse. Know yourself and your weaknesses, and then plan accordingly.
Dave Dixon Long is Business & Marketing Director for Gallus Medical Detox Centers which provide upscale drug and alcohol detox, medically assisted to alleviate withdrawal symptoms with monitoring 24/7 by Registered Nurses, luxury private rooms, gourmet meals, Wifi, HDTV and patient confidentiality. This proven detox method was developed by Dr. Patrick Gallus after 15-plus years as an emergency room physician caring for alcohol and drug addicted patients.

Inpatient Drug Rehab: What You Should Know


It is unusual for a drug addict to find a way to treat his condition. In most cases, the family members are the ones who usually seek for help the moment they know that a certain loved one is suffering from drug addiction. When this happens, one of the best things to do is to find the best drug addiction treatment. One of the choices you have is the inpatient drug rehab. This might be your first time to hear about it. So read on and find out more.
Inpatient drug treatment is a particular type of treatment in which a 24-hour care is given to a patient. In this type of treatment, the patient is given both physical and psychiatric assistance. Usually, the patients spend months inside inpatient treatment facilities. Inpatient care is considered to be more effective than the outpatient treatment simply because it provides a very defined and structured atmosphere. This treatment offers a specialized setting in which a patient is away from various distractions of life. This will help him to focus on both psychological and physical healing.
One of the best things about inpatient treatment programs is the fact that there are various addiction facilities which can truly help the patients. Nowadays, there are inpatient treatment facilities which are more of a resort-type than a medical clinic. You can expect to see facilities such as art classes, scenic views, gourmet meals, yoga classes, and a lot more. With this, the patients are given utmost comfort while providing them the best addiction treatment. Patients are given comfortable surroundings to help them recover faster. This type of atmosphere can help those patients who struggle at home. Inpatient treatment will give them a certain environment which they are missing at home.
1. Psychological Benefits - One of the best benefits of an inpatient treatment is the fact that inpatient drug rehabs provide a wide variety of psychological therapies to answer the needs of different drug addiction cases. It must be noted that every inpatient drug rehabilitation center offers various psychotherapy options to every patient they have. The type and style of treatment will depend on the patient's individual circumstances.
2. Emotional Benefits - Apart from psychological support, patients are also given enough emotional support so that they can totally recover. With the facilities that the drug rehab center has, every patient will have peace of mind and emotional safety.
3. Physical Benefits - Inpatient drug treatment centers employ certified medical detox facilities in order to increase the patient's chance of completing the detox treatment with no relapse. In addition, patients are medically monitored too. This means that medical professionals are always on hand during the whole period of the treatment.
Indeed, an inpatient drug treatment is helpful for those who are addicted to drugs and other types of addiction. It is difficult to recover from drug addiction that is why it is always best to have a secure and safe place where patients can fully recover. So when you truly care about your loved one, consider an inpatient drug rehab.

How To Quit Smoking - 5 Strategies That Work


Here are 5 strategies that will make stopping smoking easier;
1. Become a 'non-smoker' not an 'ex-smoker'. Ex-smokers usually replace smoking with something else, often comfort food. Smoking promotes the release of dopamine and endorphins in the brain. These are 'happy hormones'. Comfort food does the same and this is what leads to weight gain in ex-smokers when they replace smoking with eating. Non-smokers have nothing to replace. Also, ex-smokers often develop a fanatical intolerance to all things related to smoking. They do their very best to convince others to stop as well and so become a real pain in the backside for their friends.

2. Change your daily routine. This helps avoid actions and behaviour linked to smoking. If at 11am you usually take a cup of coffee outside and have a smoke, make a change. Have your coffee at a different time and place. This will cut the link in your subconscious mind between that time, place and action, which is smoking. Creating a smoking diary and log where you are and what you are doing each time you smoke will show where patterns of behaviour are habitual rather than random or spontaneous.
3. Don't tell friends you're "trying to give up". They will only pressure to you to have a smoke. If you doubt this wait until they get their cigarettes out and say loudly "Oh I'm trying to give up so I've left mine at home" or "I'm trying to give up so I've thrown mine away." Then see how long it is before they are insisting you have one.
4. Think in a different way. For many people the first month of quitting is the easiest. They are keen and on guard for any temptation to light up. As the time goes by they often slip back into their old patterns of behaviour and find that they do have a smoke. They then immediately decide that they have failed. Nothing is further from the truth. Just think about it in a different way. If you were a 15 a day smoker and you find yourself having a cigarette don't beat yourself up over the one you have had. Give yourself a pat on the back for the 14 you didn't smoke that day! You experienced a blip in your becoming a non-smoker. It doesn't follow that you won't be able to pick up the reins and continue towards regaining your health.
5. Think of the gains not losses. Many people think becoming a non-smoker deprives them of something. We use the term 'giving up smoking' and this sets up a sense of loss. Research around the world shows that just 8 hours after becoming a non-smoker the carbon-monoxide level in the blood drops to normal. In only 24 hours the risk of heart attack decreases and in 90 days the lung efficiency increases by up to 30%. After 120 days a completely new supply of healthy blood cells are in your system. 1 year after becoming a non-smoker the additional risk of coronary heart disease is 50% less than that of a smoker. These are all fantastic gains and thinking of them promotes a positive train of thought.
Having read through this you can see the way in which I've chosen words to promote positive thinking. By adapting your way of thinking and speaking you can immediately begin to change how you see yourself. It is not 'if I can give up smoking' or even 'I'm going to give up smoking' it is 'I am now a non-smoker'.
Mike Nicolson is a therapist based in Essex who believes that there is no 'one size fits all' technique. We need an individually tailored way to help us quit. The more options the better the chance of finding the right combination for us. To find out more about using a tri-therapy approach for quitting smoking go to http://www.mikenicolson.co.uk

Quitting Smoking - Recovering From Addiction or Breaking a Habit?


We are all individuals and to give ourselves the best chance we need individually tailored methods to help us to succeed in achieving our goals. When quitting smoking Addiction to nicotine initially requires a different approach to that of breaking the smoking Habit. To give yourself that better chance of success it is vital to identify which you are dealing with. Answering three simple questions honestly will help you to identify which keeps you smoking, Addiction or Habit?
Does my craving for a smoke wake me up in the night and I have to have a cigarette because I can't get back to sleep without one?
When I wake up in the night needing a pee do I have to light up a cigarette on my trip to or from the bathroom?
Has the fact that I can't go for 8 hours without a smoke ever prevented me from flying long haul for a holiday or business trip?
If your answers are yes to all 3 questions then you are Addicted to nicotine. Even if you answer yes to only 1 or 2 of them you are probably on the verge of Addiction to nicotine. If you have identified yourself as Addicted to nicotine there are ways to recover without going 'cold turkey'. The need to find the best way for you is imperative and your doctor or an established Quit Smoking Group can help you to find which of the many products now available to help recover from Addiction to nicotine is right for you.
If your answers were no, think about your daily routine. Most smokers can identify a pattern to their smoking. You will find that you link certain actions together i.e. sitting in the kitchen at 7 am with a coffee and cigarette, lighting up whilst you stand outside in the garden with the dog first thing in the morning, having that last smoke before beginning the morning journey or the first one on your way home. When having a drink with friends do you find yourself automatically reaching for a cigarette without even thinking about it? If you mentally take yourself through your day you will find that there are times, actions and places that you have subconsciously connected to a having a smoke. This is Habit.
If it is a Habit there is good news. Habits are learned behaviour and anything you learn you can unlearn. OK, bad grammar but nevertheless true.



Understanding Substance Abuse Treatment Options

By Jeff Molenda



Research shows that millions of people around the world abuse drugs

and alcohol. Substance abusers exhibit different temperaments, strange

behaviours and hurt people around them when substance cravings worsen.

Quitting substance dependence can be tough as addicts can experience a

number of withdrawal symptoms.



This makes the entire process even more

complex for them. Substance dependence warrants

instant treatment since overlooking the condition can

lead to serious problems. There are a number of

substance abuse treatment options that helps addicts

work towards sobriety.



Residential Inpatient Treatment



This treatment requires patients to live at the center for a

certain period of time so that their behavior can be

monitored. Treatment period can be 30 days to 1 year

although research shows that it can take at least 6

months for a successful result. This kind treatment

program is particularly effectual for criminal inmates,

substance-abusing youths, as well as people who have

lengthy histories of drug addiction.



The aim of this kind of

treatment is to help patients live a substance free and a

crime free life. Recovering addicts will be given support

to battle the sickening signs of withdrawal syndrome.

Intensive Outpatient Program



In this type of treatment program, recovering addicts

meet 3 days a week for about 2 to 4 hours per session.



Intensive outpatient program can be programmed around

work or school to enable addicts to carry on with their

daily activities, while still seeking substance abuse

assistance.



The cost of this program is less compared to

that of inpatient treatment making it an excellent choice

for most people struggling with substance addiction.

Outpatient centers provide behavioral treatments to

assist recovering addicts make smart decisions and to

lead better lives.



Sober Living



When recovering addicts leave residential treatment,

they are faced with many challenges. To help them stay

on track and avoid setbacks, they are sent to sober living

centers. This can either be a house or an apartment

where they will meet other patients who have walked the

path and are also trying to remain sober. Here they can

help out each other. Sober living is excellent for those

addicts who are influenced by other people or places

around them.



Counseling



Counseling is a very effective program when combined

with other types of treatment programs, rather than on its

own.



This type of treatment approach is intrinsic in

virtually every kind of treatment. A psychologist will assist

recovering individual find the main cause of their

addiction and learn new ways so that they can make

wise decisions.



Counseling sessions can be in groups,

one-on-one, or even family-oriented depending on the

center. Often times, recovering addicts can attend

sessions during evening or even weekend hours.



Medical Detox



Medical detox typically starts with a visit to an emergency

room. Often times, this kind of treatment is for serious

substance abusers and who are in danger of relapsing.



For the most part, people have a one-on-one kind of

treatment, although group counseling might also be

available. Detox program is used to stop relapse through

regular meetings.



These treatment programs can help substance addicts

recover from substance abuse and live healthier lives.



Jeff Molenda works at http://thecabinchiangmai.com

Reasons to Avoid Addiction and Counter Allergies

Did you ever feel craving for something so strong that you would do anything to get it? A feeling so overpowering that you feel you won't be able to live without the substance can disrupt your peace, life and get in the way of everything. It's termed as addiction. From alcohol to drugs to even games on social networking sites, addiction could be of anything. It has been defined as a mood altering behavior which can change the brain activity inside your brain. Allergies, on the other hand, are disorders of your immune system which are caused when your body reacts to substances that are otherwise harmless like peanuts or sun rays.
There is a limit to what our body and mind can take. Excess of anything is harmful for the body and when it is a substance which can alter your body so gravely, you have to get rid of the addiction.  are the most dangerous addictions, they make your body and mind weak. Nicotine, found in tobacco plants is a poisonous substance which gets absorbed by the body and causes diseases like cancer, impotency, and depression. Smokers are at a high risk of developing cancers and asthma because of the same element that is present in tobacco. Even the passive smokers are susceptible to the diseases related with tobacco and nicotine.
Allergies could be due to various reasons ranging from dust to food. These could be environmental or genetic and the best way to fight the allergies is to avoid the allergens. If you stay away from the elements making you sick, you won't be affected. But for that, you need to realize that you have an allergy. Once your doctor confirms your fears, you need to find out what is causing the allergy. In order to do that, doctors conduct tests like Skin Tests, Blood Tests and Challenge tests. The problem sometimes is that you can't avoid some of the natural elements, no matter how much you try. So the best way is to ask your doctor for treatments to block the allergens from attacking your body. Immunotherapy and medicines work in the favor of the patients and help them fight allergy.
In both the cases, you need to realize that you have a problem. Many times people deny their health problems and by the time they notice they have an illness and the disease gets along too far. So it is very important to look for the symptoms. Allergens cause itching, rashes, pain, diarrhea, sneezing, coughing and swelling whenever you come in contact with them. Similarly, addicts experience intense cravings, headaches, hallucinations, nausea and anxiety. Addicts, however, always deny their issues and think they can handle it. If something is coming between you and your life, you need to wake up and start redeeming yourself. There are rehabilitation centers everywhere you can get yourself admitted into and take control of your life. You only get one life to live, so don't waste it. If you can't do it alone, there are support groups that can help you to make your life a lot better.
It is never too late to help yourself or someone else who is suffering from any kind of addiction. Know more about Nicotine addiction

Smoking Etiquette: Celebrate Courteously in the Spirit of Giving

By Kim Law



As more and more cities enforce non-smoking by-laws, it

is getting more and more difficult for a cigarette smoker

to find a place to light up. Yes, smoking has become a

dirty word in Canada, the US and in many other

countries.



And as increasingly more non-smokers speak

up, smoking has become a touchy subject for all. This

becomes even more apparent when family and friends

gather together indoors for winter celebrations. In the

spirit of the season, consider the following guidelines for

smoking etiquette:



Smokers



- When in public or private buildings, only smoke in areas

designated for smoking, or in areas where others go to

smoke. Do what you can to ensure that the smoke does

not drift in the direction of others.



- If ashtrays are not made available, assume that

smoking is not permitted and do not request an ashtray.



- Refrain from smoking in the vicinity of pregnant women,

infants and the elderly.



- If smoking is permitted in the venue, refrain from

smoking in the presence of those who are eating. (In a

group situation, wait until after dessert to light up if you

are having a meal.)



- Do not smoke in someone else's car, as there is no

escape for the other person.



- If you have a non-smoking guest in your car, it is

respectful to ask, "Do you mind if I smoke?(Though the

best thing would be to refrain, as the other person may

not be comfortable asking you not to smoke in your own

car.)



- If you visit the home of someone who does not smoke,

only smoke outdoors.



- A smoker who has a non-smoking houseguest may

choose to refrain from smoking in the presence of that

person. It is considerate to ensure that the guest's room

Is free of the odour of smoke.



Non-Smokers



- If you are entertaining and smokers are attending,

arrange for a comfortable smoking area outside if you

prefer not to have smoke in the house. Everyone

deserves to feel welcome. Have comfortable chairs,

appropriate lighting and ashtrays available.



- Do not tell an acquaintance or business colleague that

they should quit smoking in the interest of their health.



This is considered intrusive, very personal and likely

none of your business. Non-smokers should respect a

smoker's right to smoke, as long as it is not done at a site

designated as non-smoking.



- Many people are allergic to smoke or have health

problems like asthma. If you wish for someone in a public

place to stop smoking, ask them very politely to

discontinue - explaining the reason. When the individual

extinguishes their cigarette, thank them sincerely.



During this festive season, whether you smoke or don't,

please consider those around you in this season's spirit

of giving.



Happy Holidays!!!

Three Good Reasons to Quit Smoking

By Slava Fuzayloff



Are you a smoker who's thinking

about quitting but wondering if

it's worth it? Cigarettes are an

addictive substance, and

quitting can be difficult. But if

you need help, there are a

variety of medications and

methods designed to help

people stop smoking.



You may have heard the statement

that smoking causes lung cancer, but if that's not enough

to deter you, there are many other reasons-health and

non-health related alike- why smoking cessation is a

good idea; here are three good reasons to quit smoking

as soon as possible.



The most obvious reason to quit smoking is to protect

and improve your health. The Center for Disease Control

calculates that 443,000 people die in the United States

each year from smoking-related disease, and that more

people worldwide die from tobacco use than from HIV,

illicit drug use, alcohol use, motor vehicle accidents,

suicides and murders combined.



The average person's

lifespan is shortened by eleven minutes per cigarette

smoked and smoking has been conclusively linked to a

variety of life-threatening illnesses affecting almost every

organ of the body.



Some of the most prevalent diseases among smokers are lung cancer,

coronary heart disease, stroke, and obstructive lung disease.



Other types of cancer linked to tobacco use are leukemia, bladder,

cervical, esophageal, kidney, laryngeal, pancreatic, pharyngeal,

stomach and oral cancer.



Smoking also causes low bone density (putting smokers at an increased

risk for broken bones and developing

osteoporosis), an increased risk of macular degeneration

and cataracts, infertility, high blood pressure and teeth

and gum disease. Smoking is not only a detriment to your own health;

it also harms the health of your friends and family.



Smoking is particularly dangerous for pregnant woman

and parents of small children, as exposure to cigarette

smoke can cause preterm delivery, low birth weight, still

birth, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).



Children around secondhand smoke also get sick more

often and are prone to developing asthma and fluid in

their ears.



But the risks are not only for children; people

who are exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely

to develop asthma and respiratory infections, and are at

a 20-30% increased risk of developing lung cancer or

heart disease when compared to other non-smokers.



Researchers are currently in the process of examining a

possible link between secondhand smoke and breast

cancer development as well.



The Center for Disease

Control states there is no safe level of secondhand

smoke; any exposure increases an individual's risk of

developing a life-threatening illness.



Quitting smoking can also improve your quality of life in

non-health related ways, including saving you money,

time, and the inconvenience of smoking in an

increasingly regulated society.



It is said that, the average smoker

spends about 1,500 dollars every year. In New York City,

the average is 3,300 dollars annually!



Quitting smoking

can save you not only that money, but also the potential

expenses of dealing with a smoking-related illness, and

save you money on your health and life insurance

policies; while the effects of smoking cannot be

completely reversed, your health will begin to improve

after you quit.



As your lung capacity improves, you'll be

able to participate in exercise and recreational activities

with greater ease, making your outings with family and

friends more fun.



Finally, quitting smoking means

you won't have to worry about smoking or nonsmoking

areas in or outside, and will give you a better pick at

apartment, hotel and even car rentals.

Long-Term Effects of Drinking

In terms of the body, it is the liver

that is the most likely organ for

long-term damage as it is

responsible for breaking down

the ethanol in alcohol.



Frequent and excessive drinking

will overload the liver and lead to the development of a

fatty liver and usually to hepatitis and cirrhosis.



Another issue is skin damage - you can often tell

someone who is a heavy drinker because of their red

cheeks and nose due to broken capillaries. In addition,

there are physical signs - the "beer belly" from the

excess calories in beer, particularly.



Drinking too much too often will cause physical damage,

increase the risk of getting some diseases, and make

other diseases worse. Excessive drinking over time is

associated with:



Hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver



Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) or

pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)



High blood pressure/Hypertension (which can lead to

stroke)



Certain types of cancer, including mouth, oesophagus,

and throat



Permanent damage to the brain



Heart failure



Neurological problems such as epilepsy and peripheral

neuropathy (lack of feeling in the hands and feet)

Certain types of vitamin deficiency leading to malnutrition

Emotional Long-Term Effects of Alcohol



We also know about the emotional long-term effects; the

primary effect is the likelihood of alcohol addiction or

dependence.



Using alcohol as a drug to change your

mood, making you feel, in the short term, good about

yourself will lead in the long term to an addiction. This is

because it becomes your strategy; you are

psychologically reliant on alcohol to feel good.



Over the long-term, it becomes a habit to drink and

therefore the body and mind expects it. It can also signify

boredom because over a long period you have the same

behaviours; variety is often needed for enjoyment and

excitement in life, a task which alcohol can no longer do

for you.



The other issue is hopelessness which can lead to

feelings of helplessness and suicidal thoughts. You come

to believe that you cannot help yourself or anyone else.

Only alcohol can do this for you; you believe that you can

never change your destructive alcohol addiction.



Denial of the problem can lead to both guilt and shame

and make it harder to admit you have a problem,

especially because the problem has gotten worse over

time.



So, the earlier you can deal with any issues with alcohol

the better - for you both emotionally and physically.

10 Things Not To Tell Others While Quitting Smoking

By Lindsay M Fox



Quitting smoking is one of the most difficult things that a person

could do. This is because tobacco contains a highly addictive

substance called nicotine.



A person who is trying to quit this habit is definitely

going to pass through a tough period; nicotine cravings result in

irritability, insomnia and anxiety.



A person who is in the process of quitting smoking

generally requires a lot of support from family and friends

because relapses are all too common. If you know any

such person, there are a few topics of discussion that

you should avoid at all costs. They include:



1. It's really easy to quit; it's just a question of willpower.



2. A couple of cigarettes now and then wont hurt you



3. You don't need any of those nicotine products to get rid

of this habit



4. Herbal cigarettes are a good alternative to tobacco

cigarettes



5. You'll never be able to quit cigarettes; you've tried so

many times already



6. If you're using nicotine replacement therapy for a while

then you might as well start smoking again



7. Wow, have you put on some weight?



8. You seem to be very irritable these days. You were

better to be around when you smoked.



9. It's about time you quit smoking; don't you care about

your health?



10. Let me light up in front of you; let's see if you are serious

about quitting.



These different statements indicate just how little

knowledge most people have about the habit of smoking.



As a matter of fact, many people are not aware of how

addictive this habit is. As a result, they place unrealistic

expectations on the person who is trying to quit the habit.



In actuality, a person who is trying to quit will definitely

feel a lot of temptation to pick up a cigarette from time to

time. Even if the person does smoke, this is no cause for

ridicule; it only indicates the person's frailty.



Many people trying to quit this habit will benefit from

nicotine replacement therapy because it helps them deal

with nicotine cravings very easily.



Therefore, it is best to encourage a person to use these products,

even if for a long period, because nicotine by itself has only a

fraction of the dangers of cigarette smoke.



If you avoid making the above statements and ones similar to them, and

actually say their opposite to the person trying to quit the habit,

then you will be providing the right kind of support.

Health Risks Associated With Smoking

By Lindsay M Fox



Doctors are firmly of the opinion that smoking is a very dangerous

habit. As a matter of fact, health experts believe that this habit is

far more dangerous than another social vice, namely drinking alcohol.

One statistic should help illustrate this fact: almost 20 percent of

all adult deaths in the United States are attributed to smoking.



Certain other facts should also be brought to the

attention of smokers:



Smokers have a shorter life expectancy by almost 10

years when compared to non-smokers



Smokers are 10 times as likely to develop lung cancer as

non-smokers



Smokers are three times as likely to be diagnosed with heart disease

as non-smokers



Smoking affects the body in many ways. However, its

maximum impact is on the lungs, heart and arteries.



1. Cigarette smoke has the ability to narrow the arteries

very much. This can lead to high blood pressure as well

as peripheral vascular disease.



The latter condition can also result in gangrene unless it is treated.

Hardened and narrowed arteries also restrict blood supply to the brain

and this can result in a fatal stroke.



2. Cigarette smoking causes a whole lot of problems of the

lung. Most people know that it causes lung cancer (which

has a very low survival rate of 1 in 10). However, it also

results in many lung ailments such as bronchitis and

emphysema.



The air sacs of the lungs get coated with tar

and this can damage them for life, making it very difficult

for the person to breathe. Further, the person has very

low stamina because of the body's inability to get

sufficient oxygen.



3. Smokers are at higher risk for cancers of the bladder,

kidney, cervix, uterus, stomach, esophagus, mouth and

pharynx.



4. Smoking has a very dangerous effect on women. For

starters, it can result in infertility. Also, it can also

cause a woman to suffer a miscarriage or even a pre-

term delivery. Women who smoke are more likely to

have stillborn babies than non-smoking women.



Further more, their babies have greater incidence of low birth weight

and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Menopausal smokers tend to

have very low bone density and this also results in many bone

fractures when they fall.



A smoker needs to always remember that the negative

effects of inhaling smoke on a regular basis tend to be

cumulative. However, a person can reduce his or her risk

for many of these diseases by quitting smoking as early

as possible.

Second-Hand Smoke - Is It A Passive Killer?

By Lindsay M Fox



Most people know that smoking

is bad for the health. Cigarette

smoking has been linked with

cancer, heart and lung diseases

as well as strokes. You probably

have given up this habit or

avoided it entirely because of this

awareness.



However, if you

spend a lot of time in the vicinity

of a person who smokes frequently then you will not be

able to protect yourself from the negative effects of

cigarette smoke. It is an unfortunate fact that all kinds of

cigarette smoke, even secondhand smoke, are

dangerous to the health.



Secondhand smoke from cigarettes is known as a

passive killer because it increases your risk for all the

diseases that regular smokers are susceptible to. It is

shocking to know that passive smokers have a 25

percent higher risk of developing heart disease than

people who are not exposed to any cigarette smoke.

Obviously the risk is less than if you were a regular

smoker, but it exists nonetheless and that too for no fault

of yours.



Three categories of people have to be especially careful

about staying away from secondhand smoke because

they are more vulnerable to its negative effects. They

are:



- Pregnant women: When a pregnant woman inhales

cigarette smoke, it goes into her baby's bloodstream

eventually. This can lead to low birth weight babies who

are at greater risk of having attention deficit disorders

when they are older.



- Children: Kids who grow up in households where

smoking is the norm tend to develop a lot of respiratory

ailments. Not only do these ailments slow down their

physical growth but they also keep them away from

school and other activities longer than necessary. They

are also more likely to start smoking early than kids who

were not exposed to environmental tobacco smoke.



- People suffering from respiratory illnesses: If a person's

lungs and airways are already diseased or inflamed then

exposing them to anything but clean air will worsen the

condition.



- People suffering from high blood pressure: Their blood

pressure condition will only worsen if they breathe in air

which has been polluted with tobacco smoke. Inhaling

cigarette smoke results in higher cholesterol levels and

this in turn raises the blood pressure.



As you can see, you do need to stay away from cigarette

smoke in any form in order to look after your health. You

need to be very firm about protecting yourself from this

passive but dangerous killer.

Deep Understanding Between Pregnancy and Smoking

By Lindsay M Fox



If you are a regular smoker who

plans to have a baby then you

have serious thinking to do. You

need to take good care of

yourself (and your developing

baby); smoking is simply

unacceptable during this time in

your life.



Researches have done

plenty of studies on this subject

and the news is not at all good for pregnant smokers.



The risks associated with smoking cigarettes are very

well-known to most people. You have a greater chance

of getting cancer, heart disease, hypertension or stroke if

you smoke cigarettes often. However, there are many

more risks that you (and your baby) face because of this

habit.



Since the mother and unborn child are connected

via the placenta and umbilical cord, everything the

mother consumes reaches the baby very quickly. This

includes all the toxic substances contained in cigarette

smoke that enter the blood stream via the lungs.



They various problems associated with smoking

cigarettes during pregnancy include:



- Difficult pregnancy: There are higher chances that you

will experience abnormal implantation and vaginal

bleeding if you are a smoker. You are also more likely to

go into premature labor or even suffer a miscarriage if

you smoke regularly.



- Low birth weight baby: On average, your baby might be

200 grams lighter than a baby of a mother who does not

smoke during pregnancy. Babies who are very light at

birth tend to have more disabilities and illnesses and

their mortality rate is also higher than that of babies with

a normal weight.



- Behavioral problems: Children born to women who

smoked during pregnancy tend to be very hyperactive

and irritable. More children of smokers are on medication

for attention deficit disorder than kids of non-smokers.

Sadly, unborn babies are affected by second-hand

smoke as well, albeit to a letter extent.



However, you will

be happy to know that doctors believe that the worst

effects of smoking occur only if a woman continues with

the habit throughout her pregnancy.



A woman who quits smoking as soon as she knows she is pregnant, or

even when she is trying to have a baby, is able to avoid most of these

negative effects.



Therefore, it is best if you stop

smoking entirely, or at least drastically reduce the

number of cigarettes you smoke every day, in order to

ensure that you have a safe pregnancy and a healthy

baby. You should also stay away from people when they

smoke cigarettes.



Lindsay is an anti-smoking advocate and expert. She has

helped hundreds of people quit smoking and improve

their lifestyle. "One of the best methods I use to help

people quit smoking is by using the latest and most

advanced smoking alternative devices. It works 90

percent of the time," says Lindsay during an interview.