Category: Understanding Addiction

Australian Drinking Trends

There are few places in the world in which alcohol is not consumed, often daily, by individuals. In regards to Australian drinking trends, researchers have found that of the heaviest drinkers, ten percent drink over half the alcohol consumed in the area. This is an average of six standard drinks a day or 42 average drinks a week. This means that these individuals are drinking well above the low risk guidelines and putting their personal health and the health of others in danger. Research shows that most heavy drinkers are middle aged men, usually living in rural or regional type areas, though there are exceptions to every rule. Australian drinking trends show that heavy drivers are much more likely to drink cheap beer and cask wine over other drinks and possibly for financial reasons. However, employment status and neighborhood disadvantage do not seem to affect this choice a great deal.

Though there is no specific answer to why this is true, the rise in packaged liquor sales suggests these are choice drinks for heavy drinkers. Especially when found in chain stores that can sell it cheaper than other places. This alludes to the fact that most heavy drinkers drink at home or in a friend’s home, with pubs and clubs running a close second. The problem with Australian drinking behaviors, aside from health concerns is the likelihood that the drinker will drive while under the influence, be a public nuisance, or verbally abuse someone as these behaviors show an increase.

Signs of Alcohol Use and Abuse

Alcoholism is a serious medical disease, though the addiction aspect is termed alcohol use disorder or alcohol abuse in clinical terms. The signs and symptoms of alcoholism can vary from person to person, as can the amount. For some people a few drinks on the weekend may cause the same problems as for those who drink daily. To recognize some of the familiar physical signs look for:

• Incoherent or slurred speech
• Delayed reflexes, poor balance, or even clumsiness
• Face redness, especially while drinking or immediately after
• Black outs
• Stomach issues that include pain, nausea, or vomiting

If any of these signs are present, watch for alcohol poisoning in which the person may not be able to breathe well or stops completely. Though not always fatal, alcohol poisoning can quickly lead to death.

Terms Associated With Alcohol Use and Abuse

There are many terms associated with alcohol use and abuse. Alcohol abuse refers to a progressive increase in the amount and frequency of alcohol that is consumed. This tends to lead to more and progressive medical issues. When someone is abusing alcohol, they tend to drink as a main activity, often retreating from family, friends, hobbies, and even work and other responsibilities. These individuals may also try to hide their level and amounts of drinking, especially from family and friends. Signs to watch out for abuse include:

• A growing loss of control over how much alcohol is consumed
• Insomnia, often followed by periods of extended sleep
• Increased emotions, often anger, that is inappropriate or in inappropriate settings
• Inattention to obligations, including family, friends, hobbies, and work
• Dangerous behaviors, such as those that lead to financial, health, or legal issues for self or others

Perhaps the drinking behaviors have escalated beyond abuse levels, which could mean the person is in the alcohol dependence category. Alcohol dependence can also be a part of abuse, but is most often associated with those who call themselves alcoholics. This is a physical dependence on alcohol. It is most often characterized by an inability to stop drinking, even if the desire is there and despite consequences of continued drinking behaviors. These are individuals who, once they start drinking, cannot control how much is consumed, even if it is dangerous. In this case, alcohol becomes the focus of life and a serious medical illness is present.

Alcohol Dependency

Those who are alcohol dependent will need medical treatment to stop drinking as it can be dangerous to the person’s health to simply stop cold turkey. Signs of dependence include those listed above, but also include:

• Hangovers that are significant enough that an increased amount of time is needed to recover
• Withdrawal when alcohol is not available
• A strong tolerance to alcohol that increases over time
• Unsuccessful attempts to stop drinking
• Acknowledgement of medical issues related to alcohol (liver disease, heart issues)
• Reduced or total lack of attention to life’s responsibilities

If you have concerns that you or a loved one falls into these categories, then seek help. If you are uncertain whether withdrawal is occurring then read on as the signs and symptoms are included.

Withdrawal

When someone becomes physically addicted to alcohol and then cannot get anything to drink, withdrawal symptoms may occur. In some cases, withdrawal can do great damage to the body systems and any signs of withdrawal should be checked out by a medical professional. Look for signs like:

• Convulsions, shaking of the hands, or even full body tremors
• Seizures
• Hallucinations
• Sweating extreme amounts, even when it is cold in the area
• Insomnia
• Stomach issues such as nausea and vomiting
• In some cases, extreme agitation and anxiety

When someone goes through withdrawal and begins detoxing, a great health risk is present. This is a higher risk than with most other drugs. In fact, a sudden stopping of drinking when a physical addiction is present can create a condition called delirium tremens that can lead to death. This is why medical intervention is so important.

Finding the Right Help

If you or a loved one has developed a tolerance to alcohol or have become physically dependent, then seek help. DARA offers inpatient facilities in several locations with some of the best being in Australia. Locations include places such as Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney, and Auckland. This luxury resort style rehab facility works with each individual for several weeks to prepare them for long term recovery. This is accomplished through work with the mind, body, and spirit to help the whole person heal. Call anytime, day or night to set up your stay and get life back on track.

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone right now.

New Zealand Drug Use Rates: A New High

New Zealand is a beautiful, sovereign island country in the Pacific Ocean that is known for the biodiversity of plant and animal life. This highly developed country ranks highly in international comparisons in the areas of national performance, such as quality of life, education, and economic freedom, but in the past few years things have changed. While New Zealand is still a lovely place to live or visit, it has an ever-increasing drug use rate that deserves attention.

New Zealand Drug Use

New Zealand drug use of amphetamine and ecstasy has one of the highest levels of abuse and use in the world according to a United Nations survey. In fact, it was only second to Thailand as far as methamphetamine use is concerned. Specifically, 2.3 percent of the population used amphetamines of some type. These types of drugs are a true health hazard as they can cause memory loss, decline of mental faculties, and are often linked to serious crimes to support the habit or as a result of use. It is believed that the rate of use has likely increased since these findings. For the most part, young people are the dominant users as these are used as party drugs in night clubs and at parties. Some believe these drugs are chosen because they are considered safer than some others like cocaine or heroin.

The biggest issue is that many of the drugs are manufactured locally, so an accurate level of use may not be available. Along with this is the fact that since the drugs are manufactured, they often contain unknown or inconsistent ingredients that can lead to further problems for the user.

Amphetamines

Amphetamines do have a clinical use, though they are most often used as a party drug. Even when used legally, an addiction can be created as they often produce a euphoric effect. When someone uses amphetamines, especially in larger than prescribed doses or if not actually prescribed the drug, the body quickly builds a tolerance and the signature ‘high’ or energetic feelings are no longer present. When this happens, some users that still want a powerful high will snort or even inject the amphetamine after it has been mixed with water. This can quickly lead to a dangerous situation.

Since amphetamines are stimulants, the short-term effects are often:

• Quicker response times
• Excitement
• Energy and wakefulness
• Increased concentration and/or attentiveness
• Euphoria

This is why most people abuse the drug, to attain the above feelings, but there are also a host of negative effects that include:

• Dry mouth
• Hostility
• Anxiety
• Headache
• Nausea with lack of appetite
• Cognitive impairment
• Rapid heart and breathing rates or irregular heartbeat
• High blood pressure
• Teeth grinding
• Erectile dysfunction

These can all be seen with a first use or after multiple doses over time. These are considered short term effects, but other long-term effects also exist and include:

• Hallucinations with or without paranoia
• Violent behavior
• Convulsions
• Loss of coordination
• Obsessive actions
• Further drug seeking behavior

Ecstasy

Ecstasy is also an amphetamine, specifically it is known as MDMA. However, most modern ecstasy is manufactured with little to no actual MDMA included. Surprisingly, ecstasy was not officially outlawed until the 80s, but it is still used as a party drug for recreational use. Ecstasy tends to come in colorful, almost candy like tablets, with a picture, logo, or emblem printed on it. It can also be found in powder or liquid form and has many of the same effects.

When taking ecstasy, the user may feel the effects as soon as 15 minutes after ingesting it as it elevates the mood and can increase sexual energy and general energy levels. Those using ecstasy may also be mentally stimulated, feel less reserved, less anxious, and seem to have enhanced sensory perception. Though these may sound like positives, there are also negative effects, much like those of amphetamines in general. These include:

• Chills and hot flashes
• Nausea and loss of appetite
• Sweating
• Teeth or jaw clenching
• Muscle cramps or general stiffness
• Dehydration
• Disorganized thinking
• Agitation

Some of the biggest risks associated with ecstasy use are related to the ingredients as they are far from regulated. Some ecstasy has been found to contain bath salts, PCP, caffeine, cocaine, and even dog wormer. Ecstasy also leads to dehydration, but because the user is typically partying and drinking alcohol instead of water, hyperthermia is a real concern. This causes excessively high body temperature and can actually cause the body and brain to shut down. Furthermore, effects on the heart could lead to a heart attack, impaired mental abilities so that memory and concentration are affected, and poor decision making which could be deadly when driving.

Long Term Effects

Long term effects of amphetamines of any type are notable as up to a week later, ecstasy can still have people feeling anxious, restless, and irritable. If damage is done to the body through long term or repeated use, those effects on the heart and brain may be irreversible. Some amphetamines may even lead to stroke, heart attack, coma, and death.

Seeking Help

If you or a loved one have a problem or addiction to amphetamines of any type, then seek professional help as soon as possible. One of the top rehab facilities in Australia is DARA. DARA offers several locations that include Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Auckland, as well as other facilities in other countries. It is a luxury type resort that offers high end amenities in beautiful settings that will help each individual relax while recovering from addiction.

DARA facilities are in-patient in nature and work toward treating the person as a whole, mind, body, and spirit. Through activities that include physical wellness, nutrition, individualized and group counseling, and education, DARA hopes to give each patient a head start on the road to long term recovery. Treatment plans last anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks, or longer if necessary, are designed around each person’s individual needs. If you are in need of this type of help, call any DARA facility 24/7 to get started.

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone right now.

What is drug trafficking?

Drug trafficking is defined by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime as a ‘global illicit trade involving the cultivation, manufacture, distribution and sale of substances which are subject to drug prohibition laws. Drug trafficking can involve the manufacturing of drugs of any type, the illegal sales of such drugs or medication, and the transport of illegal substances or amounts, among others. In Australia and New Zealand, commonly called Oceania, women are often used in drug trafficking. There are a number of reasons for this that will be described below.

Specific to Oceania, the use of women traffickers has shown to hold steady or grow each year up to 2016. The rates of women traffickers is much higher in this area than in other countries, including the Americas which also have high rates.

 

Female drug use

Studies worldwide indicate more men attend in-treatment care for drug addiction than women. However, women are more likely to become addicted to drugs from smaller quantities. Women are also more likely to overdose from drug use than men.

Challenges for women arrested in the drug trade

Women who are arrested for drug trafficking offenses often receive higher sentences than men. In some countries, drug related offenses account for either the first or second cause of incarceration among women. It is believed by targeting low-level offenses, women are disproportionately incarcerated. Women tend to suffer more than men when it comes to long term consequences from incarceration. In many instances, women have less access to healthcare than male counterparts when it comes to drug treatment and sexual or reproductive needs. Fewer women also receive preparation to their return to society. Women faced the combined stigma of gender and ex-offender status upon return which leads to social isolation. This further affects the ability to change their previous lifestyle choices.

Dealing with someone with addiction

If a loved one is involved in drugs in any way, including trafficking, there are some basic principles you must remember. These will be explained below, but include:

• Not being naive
• Not being an enabler
• Rejecting lies and manipulation
• Following the money
• Protecting your valuables
• Considering substance abuse
• Keeping Responsibility where it belongs
• Stopping drug use in the teenage years
• Choosing an appropriate rehab
• Not believing everything you hear from rehab
• Provide support
• Realize there are triggers to relapse
• Don’t lose hope

Steps to Follow

The first step is to never be naive about drug use and abuse. Addiction can affect anyone, at any age, and at any time. If you are suspect that a person is using then do not enable it in any way. Providing money, offering rides, or covering up for the person is not helpful in any way. If that person makes you feel guilty or unloving, remember that it is just a form of manipulation. One way to know that drug use or an addiction is present is by following the money.

Addiction requires money and often addicts cannot keep a steady job. If there is too much money suddenly coming in or finances are dire with personal items being sold off, then drugs are likely involved. Along with this, protect your own valuables as addicts are prone to moral decay and ethical questionability, so theft is not off the table. If you do find that substance abuse is present, remember that you are not responsible. If your teen is experimenting, stop the problem before it gets any further. This can be accomplished by choosing an appropriate rehab that will be most functional for your loved one.

When your loved one calls from rehab, do not believe everything you are told because the addict may try to make things sound better than they are to get out earlier. As they stay in rehab and upon release, stay supportive, but do not enable bad habits. Even after completing rehab, there are triggers and relapse is a concern. If a relapse does occur, do not lose hope. Keep trying, even if it means tough love.

Finding the right rehab

Whether you are using drugs, concerned about a loved one, or have gotten involved in drug trafficking, there is help available. DARA helps to heal the mind, body, and spirit through physical wellness, nutrition, individual and group counseling, as well as education. 

Biker Gangs and Meth Labs

Australia has a unique growing problem in the meth related world. Bikie gangs have created a business model of sorts to spread methamphetamines across Australia using Meth labs. The problem is, they are recruiting children to help. In 2015, Victoria’s former police commissioner said that motorcycle gangs played an enormous role in meth being distributed across the country.

This goes even further as biker gangs are locally based and using children to serve as dealers. These children range in age from eleven, sometimes younger, and up. One former child dealer spoke with ABC News to share that he was recruited at age 11 and by age 13 he was smoking meth regularly.  At 15 the gang had already taught him to cook meth, creating enough each day to bring a street value of up to 28 thousand dollars. Though there are obvious dangers in cooking meth, the children were rarely given protective gear or safety precautions taken in these meth labs. The goal is to produce as much meth as possible for the dealers, safety is not a concern as safety measures cost money. Children are sadly replaceable in this world of meth.

The children recruited were often from broken homes or poverty stricken areas in which the promise of extra money was highly appealing. If this continues, an entire generation of Australians could be lost. Working around, cooking, and using meth is dangerous to your health long term. Even children can develop problems that last a lifetime, such as arthritis, lung damage, and potentially death. Furthermore, as more children and teenagers begin to use meth, crime rates soar as related to use.

What is Meth?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse defines methamphetamines as “a powerful, highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system”. Methamphetamines are more commonly referred to as meth, chalk, ice, or crystal, among other slang terms. It tends to come in the form of a white, odorless crystalline powder with a bitter taste that can be easily dissolved in water or alcohol. Meth can be smoked, snorted, or injected with a needle.  Some people take meth orally as well though this is less common. 

When someone takes meth in any form, they have a false sense of happiness and well-being. This is accompanied by a rush of confidence, energy, and hyperactivity. The user is unlikely to get hungry which is why many long-term users are thin. The effects can last between six and eight hours, but have been known to last up to 24 hours. Starting with the first use, meth begins to destroy a person’s life.

Signs and Symptoms of Meth Use

If you suspect a loved one, especially a teenager is using meth then seek help immediately. If you are unsure of the signs and symptoms of meth use, they have been shared below. Common signs include:

• Intense scratching
• Weight loss without trying
• Rotting teeth and gums (meth mouth)
• Acne and sore, especially on the face and arms around injection sites
• Paranoia
• Irritability
• Confusion
• Cravings
• Tolerance
• Droopy facial skin
• Convulsions
• Liver damage
• Stroke
• Lowered immune system
• Increased libido
• Increased body temperature

Of these, meth mouth is the most readily recognized. Many meth users have darkened teeth that will eventually fall out and damaged gums that can easily be infected. There is also a recognizable chemical odor with meth. Though it is most common with those that are cooking, it can also attach to those around areas in which meth is cooked or has been cooked. This chemical odor is why meth labs are moved around so often, to avoid detection. Meth cooking also involves highly volatile chemicals mixed over high heat which can cause an explosion.

A related danger of meth use is increased libido and lowered immune system. These are together because those using are likely to take part in high risk sexual behaviors. High risk sexual behaviors often lead to disease such as Hep B and C, HIV and AIDS. The same disease can come from users who share needles when injecting. These diseases can be deadly, even if one gets clean from meth. This is why early treatment is so important.

Long-term Effects

Another problem with meth use is even the long-term effects develop within the first few weeks or months of use. These effects are lifelong even if a person does get clean. People struggle to overcome meth addiction because of cravings and a change in brain chemistry. Once the cravings begin, the user gives in and follows the cravings toward repeated use. This is because the brain functioning has been altered in such a way that the body feels it may die without further use. This is part of withdrawal, but tends to lead to further and heavier use over time. Though not much data is available for decades of use because most users do not survive that long, some long-term results are known. These include:

• Mental health issues due to the brain’s chemical balance being disrupted
• Confusion
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Aggression
• Paranoia
• Hallucinations

Many users, even after they have stopped, become suicidal because of the side effects of use. Others become psychotic due to the brain chemical disruption. Many also suffer from permanent organ damage to the heart, liver, lungs, and skin. A stroke or heart attack is also likely due to this damage. From the beginning, meth starts to cut the user’s life short.

Getting Help

DARA rehab in-patient facilities can help fight the addiction to meth. The earlier treatment is provided, the better chances of avoiding severe long-term damage. While not all damage may necessarily be erased, it can be lessened. DARA offers an affordable in-patient facility with numerous locations. These include, but are not limited to Melbourne, Auckland, Brisbane, and Sydney. With DARA, each patient receives individual, personalized care for a typical 12-week program, though shorter or longer stays can be arranged. During a typical stay the person is treated mind, body, and spirit before heading home with the tools necessary to stay in recovery long term. You are worth the time and effort needed to be treated at DARA. Call anytime to get started.

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone right now.

Drug Use Among Young Users

The sad fact is that drug use and the associated health consequences are highest among young people. Most research suggests that early drug use among those aged 12 to 14 and those in late adolescence, ages 15 to 17 are critical for the initiation of substance use. Substance abuse tends to peak among young people aged 18 to 25 years of age. This article will focus on cannabis use among this age group, those 12 to 25 years old as this time is critical in preventing addictions and getting help for those who are already addicted. However, it should be stated that a person of any age can overcome addiction with help, but the younger help is received the better likelihood of a lifetime without further substance abuse.

In the Oceania area, cannabis is a common drug of choice for young people. This is likely due to the ease of access for this age group and others.  Cannabis is also thought to be a low risk drug, though when it is used in conjunction with other drugs or alcohol there can be severe issues. There are two main reasons young people tend to use drugs and they are both in extremes. On one hand, younger uses use drugs like cannabis to enhance excitement and have fun in night club or party settings and on the other, they use drugs to cope with poor or extreme living situations. As for cannabis use it is more for general relaxation than a party drug.

Causes of Use

The path to harmful substance use for young people is complex. There are many factors, but many are totally out of their control. These could include personal factors like:

• Behavioral or mental issues
• Neurological development
• Gene variation from social influences

Anyone suffering from a mental or behavioral issue is more likely to use as they tend to use drugs to alleviate symptoms, although this only hiding the issues. As for young people, neurological immaturity and changes can lead to drug use. Unfortunately, drugs can also alter or hinder neurological development and create lifelong issues.

Other causes for use may include:

• Parental and familial functioning
• School and peer influence
• Environment

These areas are beyond the control of the young person as parents and families cannot be chosen, yet must be dealt with. Those who are abused or neglected may turn to drugs as a way of coping. School and peers are a huge influence on drug use as these are the people and the place most young adults spend the majority of their time. If students are hanging around others who use drugs, they are at a much greater risk. Finally, the environment in which a young person spends the most time can be highly influential.

If parents or other family members use drugs then a teen or young adult is at higher risk, just as with peers. A family member using in the presence of a young adult makes it appear safe and appropriate to use. The same is true for the community at large. If an area is drug ridden and drugs of any type are easily accessible, then a young adult is much more tempted to use. This also applies to lower class, poverty ridden, low opportunity areas.

Signs of Cannabis Use

Though many believe that cannabis is not addictive, it can be. While it has a lowered rate of addiction, when used in conjunction with other drugs cannabis can create problems. Cannabis, also called marijuana or weed, can be consumed as a shredded, dry leaf product, oil, or resin. Hash typically comes in flat cakes with an amber or brown color, though it may also be sold in small glass bottles. Marijuana can be eaten when mixed in food as an oil or budder, smoked, or vaped. The signs of use include:

• Bloodshot eyes
• Rapid heart beat
• Lethargy
• Lack of coordination
• Increased snack or food cravings
• Confusion
• Talkativeness
• Secretiveness
• Lost or misjudged time periods
• Loss of interest in activities or studies

These signs may come and go as the drug leaves a person’s system. If you are still uncertain whether cannabis use is the problem, look for paraphernalia like:

• Shredded leafy debris
• Pipes
• Rolling papers
• Small bottles of brown oil
• Eyedroppers
• Small metal clips (also called roach clips)
• Water pipes or bongs
• Edibles (in places where marijuana use is legal

Typical symptoms of weed use can last between three and six hours depending on how much was used, at what concentration, and in what fashion it was taken. Some people may experience panic and paranoia with intense strains or those that have been laced with another drug.

Why is Getting Help Important?

Though cannabis use may be mild in comparison to harder drugs, it can still be dangerous. Some people will willingly lace joints with other substances that can cause issues with users. Another concern is that marijuana can lower inhibitions which can lead to dangerous behaviors, including further drug use. Marijuana overdose is not of high concern as most people would fall asleep long before ingesting enough cannabis to create an overdose. However, if the marijuana is laced with another drug or substance, overdose is much more probable.

Getting Help at DARA

If you are using cannabis in any form or have developed a dependence or addiction, then seek professional help. DARA offers affordable in-patient treatment in several locations, including four in Australia (Melbourne, Auckland, Sydney, and Brisbane). Each DARA facility offers a resort style setting with personal trainers, top chefs, and highly trained counseling staff. DARA works to heal the whole person, mind, body, and spirit, through physical activities, group counseling, individual counseling, and addiction education. Each component is important in getting you or your loved one on the road to recovery and a better quality of life. No drug, not even mild cannabis use should be considered safe long term. Whether your addiction lies with pills, pot, inhalants, stimulants, or any of the other abused drugs, get the help you need and deserve at DARA.

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone right now.