Category: International

It Is Crystal Clear The Effects Of Crystal Meth Cloud The Mind And Body

Articles, Australia, Education, International, Understanding Addiction

The effects of crystal meth can devastate those who become hooked as well as their friends, family and loved ones.

It needs to be made crystal clear to users of this drug as well as anyone contemplating it use just why this is a substance to be feared.

What’s with crystal meth?

This highly addictive drug belongs to the drug methamphetamine and crystal meth is simply a shortening of: Crystal Methamphetamine.

It is a white crystalline drug that is either snorted, smoked, injected or taken orally. No matter which way a user decides to take their ‘medicine’, one thing is for sure: Once tried, more needs to be supplied!

Make no mistake, once taken you will feel a very strong desire to continue using it. Indeed, many become hooked after their first couple of hits. This is not scaremongering it is fact.

Why such an urge to continue use?

The effect of crystal meth takes no prisoners in terms of your mind or body. According to many addicts, the drug creates a ‘rush’ that is hard to beat. Some state it gives a massive sense of wellbeing and happiness. Their confidence is at an all-time high and they feel as if their energy levels are boundless.

These traits and the fact that crystal meth effects can easily last between 6 and 8 hours (although up to 24 hours is not unknown) make it a perfect ‘club’ drug.

The reason it is so highly addictive is that one of the major effects of this drug is to burn up your body’s resources. This process creates a devastating dependence which will only be satisfied by taking more of the drug.

When should you consider seeking help in terms of your crystal meth use?

The straight answer is very quickly! The issues this class of drug create are best dealt with via a responsible rehabilitation clinic. They have the accommodation, expertise, knowledge and qualified staff who are ideally placed to deal with such problems.

Before we touch on such establishments let’s consider what type of crystal meth user you would be classed as when seeking drug rehab assistance:

A low intensity abuser:

These users tend to snort or swallow crystal meth. They excuse their indulgence by convincing themselves that it is helping them to stay awake long enough to finish something that has been neglected or to meet a deadline.

Others in this category want the effective appetite suppressant abilities the drug offers to aid them in their weight loss efforts.

While it is not their intention, by continuing such use the effects of crystal meth could very well turn them into:

A ‘binge’ abuser:

These users are getting into uncontrolled use of the drug. They need a more intense, stronger hit, and want it fast. This form of use is generally where psychological addiction begins to form.

These users are leaving themselves wide-open to all sorts of physical and mental problems. They are prime candidates for moving into the heaviest category of users. As they do so this confirms addiction:

A high intensity abuser:

If you are in this category then inpatient drug rehabilitation services should be a major priority. Such users find that nothing else but crystal meth matters.

A fierce determination will develop with this category of user. That determination will be to ensure they never face a ‘crash’ and the startling physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms that accompany periods without the drug.

The huge problem these users face is that in order to achieve a similar high to their previous one they need to take more of the drug.

As this spiral continues so the users’ addiction increases. If long term rehab help is not sought as a priority there is a possibility the end result will be fatal.

“Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today”

When it comes to seeking help for the effects of crystal meth abuse this old saying certainly rings true.

Please do not delay seeking the assistance of a qualified addiction rehabilitation centre. The longer you leave it, the harder it will become, both in terms of taking the courageous step to seek help, and going through the withdrawal and full recovery process.

Where to seek help:

The first thing to state here is that you should not be blinkered into thinking domestic drug rehab facilities are your only choice.

A growing number of people with crystal meth dependence and addiction problems are looking to overseas rehab establishments with Thailand a major focal point.

Here are just 3 reasons why:

Cost:

Such establishments offer professional crystal meth addiction assistance at extremely affordable prices. Far less than in your home country.

Professional, caring, fully qualified staff:

It is important for those with dependence and addiction problems to understand that this is a global problem. As such staff at overseas rehabilitation centres have qualifications and counselling abilities of the same high standards demanded in western countries. Many of these staff are expatriates and work in unison with fully qualified local colleagues.

This unison brings a fusion that is ideal for helping addicts work through their addiction. You will be in an environment that is far more amenable to recovery than many residential rehab centres your home country can offer.

Aftercare:

This may be the last of just 3 advantages offered by luxury rehab resorts we will mention, but it is without a doubt one of the most crucial aspects for those looking to beat their crystal meth addiction.

Aftercare options should be flexible, constant and monitored. Responsible overseas addiction recovery resorts will place such care as a major priority. This will ensure you are given the best possible opportunity of avoiding a relapse.

Such ongoing care will also help you carve a new life for yourself which is void of the potentially crippling effects crystal meth can create.

The bottom line:

Many recreational drug users think that drugs are the solution to the current problems in their life.

The reality is that drugs such as crystal meth almost certainly end up as being a major problem in their present and future life.

Drug Addiction – Begin To Overcome It

Articles, Australia, International, Treatment, Understanding Addiction

Often in the midst of a drug addiction, recovery seems like such an overwhelming goal, but recovery is always possible no matter your situation. Having support and getting the help you need are not as far out of reach as you might think. Do not give up on yourself, even if your attempts to quit in the past have been unsuccessful. The road to recovery is never straight. Know there will be bumps in the road, but this is part of the normal process of healing. However, you must be willing to take the first step in the recovery process and decide to make a change. When you decide you want to make a change, you have already taken one giant step forward in seeking the help you need towards your recovery.

Making adjustments in life are never easy, especially when deciding to give up something that has been a source of relief and sometimes even an entrenched habit. However, there might be many things in your life that will need modification in order for you to reach sobriety. It may be overwhelming for you to think about, but talk about it with a friend, who can encourage you and support you to seek treatment. Remember to also think about the good things that will come after you seek treatment. Try not to get caught up in past attempts to quit. Develop some specific goals you would like to reach in a specified time frame in order to quit. Remove things from your home, office, car and other places that might remind you of when you use. Most importantly, make sure you seek support from family and friends, who can help encourage you and hold you accountable while you are trying to rid yourself of drugs.

It cannot be stressed enough to pursue support during this time. You cannot overcome this addiction by yourself; you need others walking alongside you to aid you in this time. Lean on your family and friends during the time of recovery. Make some new friends that do not revolve around your drug usage. Try something new or volunteer somewhere in order to make new friends. Join a recovery group to help encourage you through this process as well. You will be able to connect to people in your recovery group who will understand what you are going through during your time of recovery.

In addition, learn new, healthy ways to cope with stress or difficulties in your life. Exercise is a healthy way to relieve stress. Getting a pet can make starting a new routine easier and shift your mind away from unhealthy life patterns. Get outside and do something you enjoy to help get away from your old habits. There are lots of healthy ways to deal with stress that can replace previous unhealthy habits

Realize that you will still have triggers and cravings despite changing your customs and finding new ways to cope. The best way to avoid triggers is to cut ties with everyone and everything that reminds you of using drugs. Avoid bars and other areas that will remind you of when you use. Be aware when you are having a medical procedure done to be upfront with your doctor before the procedure is done, so you can avoid be tempted by any medications they might prescribe you. Have a go to distraction when you have cravings. These can include exercising, going for a walk, listening to music, or anything you enjoy doing to get your mind off the craving. Call a friend to tell them you have just had a trigger or craving. Talk it through with someone you can trust to help you overcome the feeling. Instead of only remember the good feelings the drug gave you when you have a craving, remind yourself of all the negative consequences that ensued because of your drug use too.

Remember that there is no one healing system out there that works the same for everyone. Your recovery regimen should be customized to your specific needs. Seek a healing treatment plan that is the best fit for you. Also know that treatment will address more than just your drug addiction. You will be dealing with hard life issues too-things that the drug abuse has been covering up. Despite the hard topics you will be addressing, you will need to have a commitment to follow through with the treatment process. Make a commitment to stick to your treatment plan no matter what happens.

In order to effectively rid your life of drug use, you should commit to learn to enjoy things that are meaningful to you outside of your drug use. Find a hobby you enjoy and pursue it. Volunteer if it will help you feel good about yourself. Set new goals and accomplish them. Get serious about your health and taking care of your body.

Remember recovery is a process, and it will take time for you to get better, but taking the first step in seeking help allows you to step onto the road to recovery.

Narcotics And Their Types

Articles, Australia, Education, International

A narcotic is a natural drug that inhibits pain and increases sleepiness. A narcotic is an illegal substance when used and not prescribed by a doctor nor used for medical reasoning. Narcotics are also at high risk for abuse when not taken explicitly as prescribed by a medical professional.

Types of narcotics:

Opioids These drugs include hydrocodone, oxycodone, morphine and codeine. Opioids are the most commonly used narcotic drug, and they are the most tightly regulated. These drugs are typically prescription medications one receives from a physician for chronic pain management. They are highly abused and are very addictive; so much so, that they are rated as the leading cause of hospital admittances for accidental injuries as well as complications due to overdosing. Opioids have serious side effects when not used properly. Some side effects from using opioids could include constipation and nausea. Others include insomnia and vomiting. There are other serious side effects that occur when using opioids improperly.

Cannabinoids Marijuana and hashish are considered types of cannabis, or cannabinoids. THC, the active ingredient in these drugs lower the perception of pain throughout one’s body. THC is a very potent drug, and it moves quickly through the body to the brain causing it to begin working rapidly just after it is inhaled. Marijuana produces an instant feeling of relaxation and mellowness. It can also cause one to feel light-headed, and one can even experience slight vision changes. It can enhance the other senses also. Some other more serious side effects include short term memory complications, impaired coordination, issues with learning and diminishing problem solving skills. Furthermore, it can cause feelings of paranoia and cause feelings of panic as well. It has, however, been shown that these types of narcotics have less probability for abuse, and one is less likely to become addicted to marijuana. However, the side effects from this drug cause concern for those who take them.

Hallucinogens The most common hallucinogens are LSD and PCP. These drugs can be extracted from plants or mushrooms or the can be manmade. They can be smoked, snorted, swallowed, brewed, injected or inhaled. These drugs are not as popular as they were about 25 years ago, but they are still being used today. These psychedelic drugs are dangerous because they put the user into a dreamlike state, which could potentially cause the user to harm himself or even someone else. Hallucinogens alter one’s thoughts and feelings. They can affect one’s mood, cause sleeping problems, change one’s eating habits, alter body temperature, affect one’s sexual behavior as well as functioning and can alter the control one has over her muscles. More short term effects include rapid heart rate and nausea. Moreover, one may experience elevated blood pressure and excessive sweating. Other possible long term effects can be problems with speech, anxiety as well as depression. Flashbacks can also happen due to taking hallucinogens, and can even interfere with daily functioning. Not to mention there is a risk of poisoning from taking these sorts of drugs. They can also cause more serious side effects such as seizures and possibly even death. Death typically occurs due to accidental injuries while taking the drug or by suicide from the effects of the drug. Their effects can become apparent as soon as 20 minutes after ingesting the drug, and the effects can last up to 12 hours. The effects depend on how much one takes as well as the individual’s brain makeup. Psychedelic drugs have more potential to be abused and have the potential to develop a dependence to them quite easily. Therefore, they are illegal and controlled more heavily by law enforcement. The effects of hallucinogens are highly unpredictable and, therefore, are quite dangerous to ingest.

Stimulants Types of stimulants include diet pills, caffeine, Ritalin, amphetamines and methamphetamines. Stimulants increase alertness and energy. They elevate blood pressure and stimulate quicker patterns of breathing. With stimulants one may also experience lack of appetite, sleep changes and headaches. Compulsive behaviors may also develop as side effect from taking this category of drug. Also, taking stimulants can increase anxiety in those taking these drugs. In children, stimulants may also cause them to grow at a slower rate. These drugs have a high potential for abuse. Oftentimes when one uses stimulants they become less concerned with things they would normally deem as important because they are more interested in pursuing their next high. Tolerance for these types of drugs can happen quickly and dependence can develop rapidly. One should use caution when using this group of drugs.

 

If you or someone you know is using narcotics, please seek professional help to aid you in quitting the use of narcotic drugs.

Say This Not That

Articles, Australia, International, Understanding Addiction

If someone you care about has a drinking problem, the best way to approach them in is a kind, considerate and empathetic manner. Put yourself in their shoes and think about how you would want to be approached if you had a problem like them.

Here are a few ways to consider approaching the topic with your family member or friend, who has a drinking problem: Say this, not that.

SAY: “I wonder if you drank less, if your health problems would improve.” It is true. You can even backup your statement with some facts, but do your best not to sound like a know-it-all. Some facts after one stops drinking include one’s complexion and skin looking and feeling better. One can also drop some pounds after cutting out alcohol since it is loaded with calories, and considering it is full of sugar, it can cause sugar cravings to decrease as well. After stopping alcohol use, one will also experience more clarity and concentration. It can also benefit one’s mental health as well. After quitting alcohol, one’s mood will increase as can their mental clarity. Health problems can be drastically affected by drinking alcohol. However, if one chooses to stop drinking, his physical and mental health can improve over time.

NOT: “Since you have become an alcoholic, your well-being greatly decreased.” Accusing someone of being an alcoholic, especially before they are willing to accept the fact they have a drinking problem, will quickly shut them down. There are many health concerns that are increased that come with being a chronic drinker, such as heart problems and cancer, but choosing your words wisely is incredibly important when trying to talk to a friend who abuse alcohol. Try saying the above statement, instead of this one, and it will hopefully come across much more loving.

SAY: “I have noticed since you have been drinking, you are not as happy as you used to be.” Yes, alcohol is a depressant, so it alters one’s mood. Not only could alcohol be adding to someone’s depression, but it could also be causing anxiety. Even if the person is taking medication for depression or anxiety, the medications may not be working if they are drinking alcohol while taking the medications. The alcohol will counteract the medication causing it to be ineffective. Alcohol can cause or deepen one’s mood disorder, but one’s mood can rise when he chooses to stop using alcohol.

NOT: “Are you unhappy because you have a drinking problem?” This type of question could backfire on you. The individual may not think they are unhappy or she may not think she has a drinking problem. She may be in denial about both of these issues. She may not be able to see the effects alcohol is having on her, especially not in the same way you can see it. The feelings she is experiencing may feel quite normal to her, so she might even be unaware her own feelings unhappiness. She might even blame her unhappiness on life or other circumstances and will not correlate it to her alcohol use. To avoid these statements, ask an open ended question like the one above instead of this one.

SAY: “I have been doing some research, and I am wondering if you should take an assessment about your drinking.” Talking to a friend your believe has an alcohol problem about completing an alcoholic assessment is a step in the right direction. Mentioning the information you have learned, while educating yourself about alcoholism, will also be beneficial. Any insight you can give them into their alcohol problem will potentially get them thinking about their alcohol use as a problem. Again, be careful with your wording. You do not want to sound like a wise guy or a walking encyclopedia either. You simply want them to see they may have a problem with alcohol.

NOT: “You have to stop drinking.” He does not HAVE to discontinue drinking. It is better for addicts to make their own choices about quitting. Him choosing to end his alcohol consumption usually produces better results throughout the recovery process. Also, this type of statement does not show concern or care about the person either. This is your opinion, and he may not believe the same thing. A better way to allow him see his alcohol use is a problem is to get him to take an alcohol assessment, like with the statement mentioned above.

Cutting out alcohol has both short term and long term benefits. Helping your friend realize she has an alcohol problem and helping her toward the path to recovery is a crucial step. No matter what, it is important for your friend to know that you will always be there for her, even if she decides now is not the time for her to own her alcohol problem.

Why Is Hydrocodone An Opiate To Respect And Fear?

Articles, Australia, International, Understanding Addiction

Let us take a look at a highly effective painkiller and address some answers to the question: Why is hydrocodone an opiate that should be treated with caution?

What is hydrocodone?

It is a semi-synthetic opioid that is derived from codeine. This is one of the more commonly known opioid alkaloids found in the opium poppy.

It acts as a powerful narcotic painkiller and works very effectively by interfering with your central nervous system pain signals. When taken it prevents nerves in the body from sending pain signals to the brain.

While it is prescribed on its own it is often combined with other drugs. Two examples are by adding acetaminophen. This combination works in a two-fold way.

The acetaminophen helps to calm a person’s mood, and it boosts the effects of hydrocodone’s painkilling abilities. The prescribed drug Vicodin is an example of this combination.

It is also commonly used in lower quantities with antihistamines and sold over the counter in pharmacies as cough medicine and medicine which is used to give relief from pain caused by coughing.

So why is hydrocodone an opiate to be feared?

This is because of the very strong addictive properties it contains. Those using hydrocodone should only do so as prescribed by their health practitioner. It is also very important to be fully aware of the drug’s potential for addiction.

When it comes to recreational use many users may be aware of its addiction qualities, but this is certainly not stopping it being abused. Indeed, it is claimed that hydrocodone is the most abused opiate in the United States.

Is there a difference between dependence and addiction?

When asking this question there can be confusion. Even medical authorities are changing these terms because of such confusion.

It is generally felt that when the word “dependence” is used this is referring to a physical dependence upon a substance. Such dependence is marked by symptoms of tolerance and withdrawal.

Even though it is accepted that some users have a physical dependence on a drug it is also acknowledged that they are not classed as being addicted to it. Having said this it is also the case that addiction is very likely to follow dependence.

Addiction is generally acknowledged when biochemical changes take place in the brain after continual substance abuse.

Such addiction is seen in a person’s behaviour, their all-consuming need that prioritises the abused drug above everything else and irrational acts when they do not have the substance in their system.

Why is hydrocodone an opiate you become so quickly addicted to?

This is because it creates effects very similar to heroin and morphine although the intensity of the hydrocodone ‘hit’ and its associated highs are slightly lower.

Euphoria, relaxation and being at one with the world are common feelings that recreational users chase. The problem is that with regular use the mind and body quickly become tolerant of the drug.

Such tolerance often means that mentally you are quickly convinced that another hit is due, and physically you will begin to feel withdrawal symptoms if you do not feed your need.

The more often you take, the more you want, and quickly it becomes evident that you require more hydrocodone simply to achieve the same feelings as previous ‘highs’.

When such a cycle continues you are facing hydrocodone dependence and addiction.

If you are in this position or feel that hydrocodone is beginning to take over your life it is absolutely vital you seek the help of your medical practitioner. Better still, take a long look at the services offered by a professional rehabilitation centre.

Is hydrocodone an opiate to be messed with?

The answer here is very clear: NO! Many users have an attitude of “It will never happen to me”.

Sadly, while experimenting with hydrocodone on its own is bad enough, many users take an even more damaging step and begin to mix the drug with other illicit substances or alcohol in their effort to reach an even ‘higher high’.

It is true that this can be achieved, but please understand that you are also leaving yourself open to serious psychological and physical damage that has resulted in many fatalities caused by overdose.

Side effects:

Similar to other opiates, hydrocodone comes with a variety of side effects that affect different users in different ways. Some of the more common are feeling nauseous, constipation, a runny nose, chills or sweating and derogatory changes to your diet.

There are a whole host of other side effects that can rise in seriousness such as increased anxiety, feelings of depression and insomnia. Those suffering from such effects must seek professional help either from a rehabilitation centre or their doctor very quickly.

Is hydrocodone an opiate you can withdraw from easily?

The truthful answer is that it is easier to withdraw from hydrocodone than it is to stay clean from thereon in.

This is why the withdrawal process should be seen as just part of your ongoing rehab care. It is common for a medical practitioner to taper your dose. This means gradually reducing the amount taken over a given timescale.

While this is certainly a step in the right direction many feel it is simply not enough to see your doctor once a week while trying to kick your hydrocodone habit.

One major reason here is that in all likelihood you will be living in the same environment you became addicted in and temptation will be everywhere.

Consider a residential rehab clinic:

While tapering will be used to lessen your withdrawal symptoms when you enroll as an inpatient at such an establishment there are a host of other mental, physical and spiritual aspects included during your stay.

Caring councillors and medical staff fully understand what you are going through. Their mission is to help you manage what is undoubtedly a testing time of your life.

Just as importantly they realise how vitally important aftercare is when it comes to keeping you off hydrocodone.

When considering inpatient rehabilitation establishments it is very important that you look at the aftercare options offered. You should choose one that gives a variety of options.

Is hydrocodone an opiate addiction you can beat?

Without a shred of doubt the resounding answer to this final question is: YES!