Here is my list of wishes for the coming year. When I read a comment from someone on a page that said the families of the addicts should be arrested there is still a lot of work to do in this community. These are some thoughts and ideas from areas like NYC and NJ where they are bigger communities dealing with the same
Absolutely
Saturday, December 31, 2016
Top 10 Blog Reads of 2016
Here is a listing of the Top 10 most read blog reads for 2016. Readers really responded to the Guest Posts. I want to do more of these in 2017. If you have a story to tell, email me and I'll fit your story in.
Readers also really responded to the human nature stories about
Readers also really responded to the human nature stories about
New Years Blogging and Resolutions
 |
Congratulations on
your Recovery
|
HOPE, healing, recovery, community, new friends.
Boy, what a year 2016 was. I have so much to be thankful for in 2016. The new friends we met. Our sons new life in recovery.
2016 started out with our son relapsed in his addiction to heroin and opiates. As the months clicked by his addiction reaching some times of unknown filled with stress and
Challenge Myself: Day #149 Plan Ahead For Delays
Today is Day #149 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says to find opportunities arising from a travel delay.
No one likes to hear about a delay in their travel plans. It happens so have a plan.
The book says,
When your train doesn't arrive on time or your flight is delayed, see opportunities. Get out your laptop or notepad and make a list of positive things that could come about because of the delay.
Think of the delay as a blessing that gives you extra time to use in myriad ways. You could:
*Make some phone call
*Catch up on paperwork
*Study a map
*Network with others
*Brainstorm some new ideas
*Write some postcards, emails or even outline a book
From the book: Live Happy
No one likes to hear about a delay in their travel plans. It happens so have a plan.
The book says,
When your train doesn't arrive on time or your flight is delayed, see opportunities. Get out your laptop or notepad and make a list of positive things that could come about because of the delay.
Think of the delay as a blessing that gives you extra time to use in myriad ways. You could:
*Make some phone call
*Catch up on paperwork
*Study a map
*Network with others
*Brainstorm some new ideas
*Write some postcards, emails or even outline a book
I know when I was watching the news it never fails especially this time of year- delays. Airlines have delays due to inclement weather and those traveling call the media as if the media will get them to their destination in an ice storm that was on the weatherman's radar for a week.
Even traveling by car there are often delays. Construction, an accident, a detour can set you behind if you have to reach your destination by a certain time. Plan ahead for these. Don't forget if it's going to be too long call the hotel/motel where you booked reservation and let them know of your delay also.
Just For Today: The next time we plan an outing, I will use this idea to plan ahead for any delays.
Even traveling by car there are often delays. Construction, an accident, a detour can set you behind if you have to reach your destination by a certain time. Plan ahead for these. Don't forget if it's going to be too long call the hotel/motel where you booked reservation and let them know of your delay also.
Just For Today: The next time we plan an outing, I will use this idea to plan ahead for any delays.
From the book: Live Happy
Friday, December 30, 2016
101 Stress Relievers
We have finished the section of Live Happy Challenges on Finding Moments of Happiness in Crisis. I wanted to share these
We Need To Stop Making Excuses
As parents we get caught up in a world of addiction that none of us really fully understand.
Believe me. I know. As a parent it is hard to understand and it's hard to stop making excuses for our loved ones behavior.
Stop denying the mistakes that our kids make. They are called mistakes for a reason. As hard as it is as a parent we have to allow our kids to make them. Sometimes their mistakes lead to making bad choices.
The mess left will be their mess to clean up in the end. So be it. That is a life lesson.
How will they learn lessons? How will they grow from the mistakes they have made?
And YES, this also means even if they are using and abusing heroin or other drugs. Even if they have fallen into that bottomless pit.
We as parents have to allow them to hit that bottom. We have to allow them that fall. I know that is hard. They will never find their bottom as long as we parents are giving them the means to stay in their addiction.
Our kids will never be able to explain it nor why they ever tried heroin so we have to stop pressing them for that answer. Our kids will never be able to explain why they repeated mistakes even when they knew the hole they were digging was too big for them to ever climb out of.
They can never explain it, BUT we have to allow them to STOP making excuses. We as parents have to stop making excuses for their addictive behaviors. It starts with stopping the enabling. We cannot ever expect them to reach their bottom when we are throwing them the rope. We have to allow them to own it.
We have to allow that no one ever forced them to do anything they didn't want to do. Yes they were no doubt influenced. Yes they were probably manipulated into it, but in the end our kids said, YES!
Rather than making excuses for them, not blaming everyone including yourself, there comes a time that we have to make them (or allow them)... own it! We as parents have to show them that they are being held accountable.
They don't have to explain it, but they do have to learn from it!
Now, you might wonder why this is so important?
Holding our sons, daughters or loved one accountable is forcing them from the victim mentality of the disease and will allow them the challenge gaining victor mentality over their addiction.
It will put them back in control of their life.
Those in recovery should rise up to the challenge and be empowered. Know you are worth it! Being a victor in this disease will help them in their first steps of recovering from this disease.
We as the parents need to stop with the victim mentality and take control over our own lives. We as parents need to take on the victor mentality by realizing that our child can recover from this disease and be free of the disease of addiction. We have to allow this in order for recovery and healing for ourselves.
We as the parents are in control of your own lives but by realizing all of this we in fact are on the first step of healing ourselves.
© 2016 Gossip Girl
Today is the day that we have to stop making all the excuses.
Believe me. I know. As a parent it is hard to understand and it's hard to stop making excuses for our loved ones behavior.
As one parent to another it is time to stop the denial.
Stop denying the mistakes that our kids make. They are called mistakes for a reason. As hard as it is as a parent we have to allow our kids to make them. Sometimes their mistakes lead to making bad choices.
The mess left will be their mess to clean up in the end. So be it. That is a life lesson.
How will they learn lessons? How will they grow from the mistakes they have made?
And YES, this also means even if they are using and abusing heroin or other drugs. Even if they have fallen into that bottomless pit.
We as parents have to allow them to hit that bottom. We have to allow them that fall. I know that is hard. They will never find their bottom as long as we parents are giving them the means to stay in their addiction.
Our kids will never be able to explain it nor why they ever tried heroin so we have to stop pressing them for that answer. Our kids will never be able to explain why they repeated mistakes even when they knew the hole they were digging was too big for them to ever climb out of.
They can never explain it, BUT we have to allow them to STOP making excuses. We as parents have to stop making excuses for their addictive behaviors. It starts with stopping the enabling. We cannot ever expect them to reach their bottom when we are throwing them the rope. We have to allow them to own it.
We have to allow that no one ever forced them to do anything they didn't want to do. Yes they were no doubt influenced. Yes they were probably manipulated into it, but in the end our kids said, YES!
Rather than making excuses for them, not blaming everyone including yourself, there comes a time that we have to make them (or allow them)... own it! We as parents have to show them that they are being held accountable.
They don't have to explain it, but they do have to learn from it!
Now, you might wonder why this is so important?
Holding our sons, daughters or loved one accountable is forcing them from the victim mentality of the disease and will allow them the challenge gaining victor mentality over their addiction.
It will put them back in control of their life.
Those in recovery should rise up to the challenge and be empowered. Know you are worth it! Being a victor in this disease will help them in their first steps of recovering from this disease.
We as the parents need to stop with the victim mentality and take control over our own lives. We as parents need to take on the victor mentality by realizing that our child can recover from this disease and be free of the disease of addiction. We have to allow this in order for recovery and healing for ourselves.
We as the parents are in control of your own lives but by realizing all of this we in fact are on the first step of healing ourselves.
Challenge Myself: Day #148 Take Your Own Pillow
Today is Day #148 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says when traveling take a long your favorite pillow.
The book says,
Hedge your bet that you will get a good nights sleep before traveling. Remember to take along your favorite little travel pillow. It stuffs easy into a carry-on bag and can serve as a terrific insurance policy against sleepless nights.
Traveling can sap your energy by various means, including jet lag. One of the best ways to beat jet lag is to get plenty of rest.
When traveling on a business trip or a family vacation, the choice of pillow in your hotel room or in your sleeping room of a ship, a ferry or airplane may not be yours, but you can always pull out your favorite travel pillow and know that blissful sleep is only moments away.
Just For Today: Even something simple like a pillow can bring peaceful rest and sleep.
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Hedge your bet that you will get a good nights sleep before traveling. Remember to take along your favorite little travel pillow. It stuffs easy into a carry-on bag and can serve as a terrific insurance policy against sleepless nights.
Traveling can sap your energy by various means, including jet lag. One of the best ways to beat jet lag is to get plenty of rest.
When traveling on a business trip or a family vacation, the choice of pillow in your hotel room or in your sleeping room of a ship, a ferry or airplane may not be yours, but you can always pull out your favorite travel pillow and know that blissful sleep is only moments away.
Just For Today: Even something simple like a pillow can bring peaceful rest and sleep.
From the book: Live Happy
Be Happy On The Road
The next set of challenges is Be Happy On The Road and related to traveling. Most of them mention traveling abroad but it's okay. We can integrate them into traveling within the United States if we don't travel outside of the country. I want to travel more in 2017. Wait that should say I just want to take a vacation in 2017. We haven't had one of those for about eight or nine years. We are overdue for one.
We personally love seeing new places throughout our beautiful state of West Virginia. Much of her beauty is masked by this heroin and opioid epidemic however.
We have a list of all of the places we want to visit in the state. It's sort of a bucket list.
I peeked through the next set of challenges and they do share a lot of ideas for those who travel.
pic from dreamstime
Wednesday, December 28, 2016
Challenge Myself: Day #147 Write It Out
Today is Day #147 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says write about your loss and then rewrite it as a gain.
The book says,
When you suffer loss, take time to have a cup of tea and write about your loss. Then, consider what you might gain as you are compelled to move forward.
For example, after a spouse dies, gone too are the shared dreams, income, and perhaps even the house. Loss pushes you outside of your comfort zone where new opportunities for your new life await.
What if you always wanted a small farm in Connecticut? What's stopping you? What if you never finished college? What's holding you back now? You like marriage and want a new partner at some point. What if you could screen her or him to fit your desired profile? What if he or she is perfect for the next chapter of your life?
Dare to dream a bold new future!
Just For Today: I am writing and rewriting new chapters of my life!
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
When you suffer loss, take time to have a cup of tea and write about your loss. Then, consider what you might gain as you are compelled to move forward.
For example, after a spouse dies, gone too are the shared dreams, income, and perhaps even the house. Loss pushes you outside of your comfort zone where new opportunities for your new life await.
What if you always wanted a small farm in Connecticut? What's stopping you? What if you never finished college? What's holding you back now? You like marriage and want a new partner at some point. What if you could screen her or him to fit your desired profile? What if he or she is perfect for the next chapter of your life?
Dare to dream a bold new future!
Just For Today: I am writing and rewriting new chapters of my life!
From the book: Live Happy
Tuesday, December 27, 2016
Challenge Myself: Day #146 Keep or Start A Journal
Today is Day #146 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says we should journal the details of the crisis outcome we desire and list the reasons why.
The book says,
What do you want as an outcome to the crisis? Why do you want that particular outcome and not another?
Write the answers to those two questions in your journal. Then use what you have written as points of departure for delving deeper. It is often difficult to get clarity when your brain is befuddled by an unexpected turn of events or bad news.
Journaling is one way to fully consider all of your options. Get all the ideas out of your brain and onto paper so that you can think about them and look at them.
Reorganize ideas. See what's missing. What you don't know. What you can investigate and learn more about. Use your journal as a powerful tool to help facilitate making the hard decisions and getting the best moral, ethical, and spiritual outcome.
Just For Today: I will practice this exercise of writing it out.
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
What do you want as an outcome to the crisis? Why do you want that particular outcome and not another?
Write the answers to those two questions in your journal. Then use what you have written as points of departure for delving deeper. It is often difficult to get clarity when your brain is befuddled by an unexpected turn of events or bad news.
Journaling is one way to fully consider all of your options. Get all the ideas out of your brain and onto paper so that you can think about them and look at them.
Reorganize ideas. See what's missing. What you don't know. What you can investigate and learn more about. Use your journal as a powerful tool to help facilitate making the hard decisions and getting the best moral, ethical, and spiritual outcome.
Just For Today: I will practice this exercise of writing it out.
From the book: Live Happy
Sunday, December 25, 2016
Challenge Myself: Day #145 Stop and Smell The Roses
Today is Day #145 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says that we should notice one thing each day that gives us pleasure.
The book says,
In spite of the negative circumstances you may be dealing with, find little moments throughout the day to notice the things that, under ordinary circumstances, give you pleasure.
For example, take time to appreciate the view of the neighbor's yellow roses that have just burst into bloom, the taste of a perfectly sweet apple, the sound of classical music as the CD plays on your laptop, the painting you bought in Paris that hangs in your office, the feel of your favorite loafers, or the warmth and smallness of your child's hand in yours.
Savor the gifts of sight, sense, taste, touch and smell. They are working even as you deal with crisis. Take comfort in simply noticing the blessing in the small things and short moments throughout the day.
Just for Today: I will take the time to STOP and smell the roses!
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
In spite of the negative circumstances you may be dealing with, find little moments throughout the day to notice the things that, under ordinary circumstances, give you pleasure.
For example, take time to appreciate the view of the neighbor's yellow roses that have just burst into bloom, the taste of a perfectly sweet apple, the sound of classical music as the CD plays on your laptop, the painting you bought in Paris that hangs in your office, the feel of your favorite loafers, or the warmth and smallness of your child's hand in yours.
Savor the gifts of sight, sense, taste, touch and smell. They are working even as you deal with crisis. Take comfort in simply noticing the blessing in the small things and short moments throughout the day.
Just for Today: I will take the time to STOP and smell the roses!
From the book: Live Happy
Friday, December 23, 2016
(Book) Chasing The Scream
It is now one hundred years since drugs were first banned in the United States. On the eve of this centenary, journalist Johann Hari set off on an epic three-year, thirty-thousand-mile journey into the war on drugs.What he found is that more and more people all over the world have begun to recognize three startling truths: Drugs are not what we think they are. Addiction is not what we think it is. And the drug war has very different motives to the ones we have seen on our TV screens for so long.
In Chasing the Scream, Hari reveals his discoveries entirely through the stories of people across the world whose lives have been transformed by this war.
They range from a transsexual crack dealer in Brooklyn searching for her mother, to a teenage hit-man in Mexico searching for a way out. It begins with Hari's discovery that at the birth of the drug war, Billie Holiday was stalked and killed by the man who launched this crusade--and it ends with the story of a brave doctor who has led his country to decriminalize every drug, from cannabis to crack, with remarkable results.
Chasing the Scream lays bare what we really have been chasing in our century of drug war--in our hunger for drugs, and in our attempt to destroy them. This book will challenge and change how you think about one of the most controversial--and consequential--questions of our time.
This book is available on Amazon for Kindle, in Hardcover and Paperback
You can also visit the author's website @ Chasing The Scream
What About Harm Reduction?
Currently we have a Recovery Resource Center and we will soon have a 16 bed Detox center, we have a couple of sober living houses all of which is a start in our community
BUT...
What about REAL Harm Reduction here?
Let's start that conversation can we?
First drug addiction and homelessness go together. Right
Let's Be Honest: The Do's and Don't of Dealing With an Active User
Let's be honest for a moment. Stop what you are doing, close your eyes, and think about your addict for a moment. Maybe you just found out that someone you love is using. If so, you are at the right place to find information. At the very top of this blog you will see a tab called, Treatment/ Recovery Assistance. Click on the link to
Challenge Myself: Day #144 Connect With Your Higher Power
Today is Day #144 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says to recite a favorite prayer while walking.
The book says,
Do you turn to God or your Higher Power when you are dealing with a crisis?
If you do, you are like many others who take comfort in knowing that they are not alone in dealing with their troubles or solving their problems.
Allocate part of a daily exercise for a devotional walk around the block. Whatever your spiritual belief, during that period, eyes and heart wide open, invite the Divine to be with you as you pray a favorite prayer or recite a favorite Psalm.
Praying can be done as holy conversation and sacred song as well.
The point is to realize that you are not alone in your crisis and to seek comfort, protection, peace and joy in your spiritual relationship with the Divine.
Just For Today: I will rely on my Higher Power for strength and serenity.
pic from: Simple Reminders
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Do you turn to God or your Higher Power when you are dealing with a crisis?
If you do, you are like many others who take comfort in knowing that they are not alone in dealing with their troubles or solving their problems.
Allocate part of a daily exercise for a devotional walk around the block. Whatever your spiritual belief, during that period, eyes and heart wide open, invite the Divine to be with you as you pray a favorite prayer or recite a favorite Psalm.
Praying can be done as holy conversation and sacred song as well.
The point is to realize that you are not alone in your crisis and to seek comfort, protection, peace and joy in your spiritual relationship with the Divine.
Just For Today: I will rely on my Higher Power for strength and serenity.
pic from: Simple Reminders
From the book: Live Happy
Tuesday, December 20, 2016
(Book) Love Unbroken
Love Unbroken is the true story of Pamela, who spends ten years in hell struggling with drug addiction. As told by Pam and her mother Susan, the story reveals heroin addicts barely surviving in the slums of Washington D.C. and meth addicts roaming wild in the city parks of San Diego.Pam attends five treatment centers and suffers numerous relapses while her parents consult countless experts who disagree with each other. In Brazil they receive shamanic exorcisms and experience ayahuasca, a psychoactive rainforest tea considered sacred by indigenous Amazonians.
Both Pam and her mother emerge profoundly changed from these encounters. Their shared path to recovery is highly unusual, going far beyond conventional addiction treatment.
This is a book of hard-won inspiration and wisdom that reveals a truth deeper than all the traumas of the human heart — love unbroken.
Love Unbroken is available on Amazon for Kindle and in Paperback.
Challenge Myself: Day #143 Have A Glass of Wine
Today is Day #143 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says it's okay to have a glass of wine at the end of a difficult period.
The book says,
Unwind with a glass of your favorite wine at the end of an exhausting or difficult period. According to a number of research findings, wine is good for you if you drink it in moderation and as part of a healthy diet.
Wine has nonalcoholic phytochemicals (flavanoids and resveratrol) that prevent free radical molecules from damaging your body's cells. Studies show that wine reduces the risk of getting certain cancers and heart disease as well as slowing the progression of Alzheimers and Parkinson's disease.
For women, one five ounce glasss a day is good, but the health benefits are forfeited if you drink more.
For some a nice glass of non-alcoholic wine. Personally, I am a toddy person. I don't drink one every night but have occasionally had a hot nice toddy at the end of a day. I make a nice hot cup of tea, a shot of Grand Mariener and add lemon and honey.
Just For Today: I will give myself permission to relax with a nice glass of wine.
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Unwind with a glass of your favorite wine at the end of an exhausting or difficult period. According to a number of research findings, wine is good for you if you drink it in moderation and as part of a healthy diet.
Wine has nonalcoholic phytochemicals (flavanoids and resveratrol) that prevent free radical molecules from damaging your body's cells. Studies show that wine reduces the risk of getting certain cancers and heart disease as well as slowing the progression of Alzheimers and Parkinson's disease.
For women, one five ounce glasss a day is good, but the health benefits are forfeited if you drink more.
For some a nice glass of non-alcoholic wine. Personally, I am a toddy person. I don't drink one every night but have occasionally had a hot nice toddy at the end of a day. I make a nice hot cup of tea, a shot of Grand Mariener and add lemon and honey.
Just For Today: I will give myself permission to relax with a nice glass of wine.
From the book: Live Happy
Monday, December 19, 2016
Challenge Myself: Day #142 Security and Comfort
Today is Day #142 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says snuggle with your favorite pillow or security blanket.
The book says,
If you are like many people, as a child you had a security blanket that got you through the night. As an adult facing crisis, you may wish you had something tangible like that to give you comfort.
If you don't have a favorite blanket or pillow, get yourself over to the linen closet and see if there's a comfy throw, a worn afghan, or a silky coverlet that you could use. Or got to the clearance table at your local department store and pick something out that could become a new favorite security blanket.
As a child, you loved your blankey because it was yours and only yours. If had your scent on it. You knew what it felt and looked like even with your eyes closed.
In times of crisis, seek comfort in what is familiar and makes you feel safe. Wrap yourself in your blanket and let your inner child feel safe again and comforted.
Just For Today: I will seek comfort, if it is only for a moment.
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
If you are like many people, as a child you had a security blanket that got you through the night. As an adult facing crisis, you may wish you had something tangible like that to give you comfort.
If you don't have a favorite blanket or pillow, get yourself over to the linen closet and see if there's a comfy throw, a worn afghan, or a silky coverlet that you could use. Or got to the clearance table at your local department store and pick something out that could become a new favorite security blanket.
As a child, you loved your blankey because it was yours and only yours. If had your scent on it. You knew what it felt and looked like even with your eyes closed.
In times of crisis, seek comfort in what is familiar and makes you feel safe. Wrap yourself in your blanket and let your inner child feel safe again and comforted.
Just For Today: I will seek comfort, if it is only for a moment.
From the book: Live Happy
Sunday, December 18, 2016
(Book) What's Left of Us?
Richie Farrell grew up in a working-class Irish neighborhood in Massachusetts. To overcome a birth defect, his father pushed him to become a star athlete, grooming him for Notre Dame. Sometimes, he would use a belt as a learning tool. Once, he used an electric carving knife...
The headline read Crippled at Birth: Farrell Now Grid Star. A month later, I tore up my knee and fell in love with pain medication.
By time he was thirty, Richie was a heroin addict, stealing from friends, shooting up during visits to his children, living in abandoned mill buildings, running from the shameful secrets of his family. Hopeless and in pain, he attempted suicide. When that failed, he was ordered to detox.
He looked at me. Be honest, he said, or you'll be on the street in 15 minutes. Jail, death, or honesty. You choose."
In this harrowing, astounding memoir, Richard Farrell chronicles a life of desperation, violence, lies and the pure oblivion of heroin. A gritty, hauntingly written tale of a descent into hell and a slow, uncertain climb out of it, What's Left Of Us is a true story of redemption: of how low a man can get, and how hard he must fight to escape a shattered life...
"[Farrell] carries you on this rollercoaster ride of ugliness and beauty. Don't miss it. Phyllis Karas
Richard Farrell is an author, filmmaker, teacher, journalist, and adjunct professor of English at the University of Massachusetts in Lowell. His documentary, High on Crack Street, was aired on HBO and received Columbia University's duPont Award. The Fighter, a feature film based on High on Crack Street, will be released in 2011 staring Mark Whalberg, Christian Bale, and Farrell playing himself. He is the co-author of A Criminal and an Irishman: The Inside Story of the Mob-IRA Connection. He makes his home in Milford, New Hampshire.
This book is available on Amazon for Kindle and in Paperback
For more information on this author you can also visit his website @ I AM A HEROIN ADDICT
The headline read Crippled at Birth: Farrell Now Grid Star. A month later, I tore up my knee and fell in love with pain medication.
By time he was thirty, Richie was a heroin addict, stealing from friends, shooting up during visits to his children, living in abandoned mill buildings, running from the shameful secrets of his family. Hopeless and in pain, he attempted suicide. When that failed, he was ordered to detox.
He looked at me. Be honest, he said, or you'll be on the street in 15 minutes. Jail, death, or honesty. You choose."
In this harrowing, astounding memoir, Richard Farrell chronicles a life of desperation, violence, lies and the pure oblivion of heroin. A gritty, hauntingly written tale of a descent into hell and a slow, uncertain climb out of it, What's Left Of Us is a true story of redemption: of how low a man can get, and how hard he must fight to escape a shattered life...
"[Farrell] carries you on this rollercoaster ride of ugliness and beauty. Don't miss it. Phyllis Karas
Richard Farrell is an author, filmmaker, teacher, journalist, and adjunct professor of English at the University of Massachusetts in Lowell. His documentary, High on Crack Street, was aired on HBO and received Columbia University's duPont Award. The Fighter, a feature film based on High on Crack Street, will be released in 2011 staring Mark Whalberg, Christian Bale, and Farrell playing himself. He is the co-author of A Criminal and an Irishman: The Inside Story of the Mob-IRA Connection. He makes his home in Milford, New Hampshire.
This book is available on Amazon for Kindle and in Paperback
For more information on this author you can also visit his website @ I AM A HEROIN ADDICT
(Book) The Definitive Guide To Rehab
This is a free download e-book that I found on an addiction website.
How to find the right rehab?
Rehabs help people live a happy, substance-free life. But, there are many programs out there…tens of thousands in the U.S. So, how do you choose THE BEST center for you or a loved one?
This Definitive Guide to Rehab has collected and answered your questions about addiction treatments. Here, we explain:
How to find the right rehab?
Rehabs help people live a happy, substance-free life. But, there are many programs out there…tens of thousands in the U.S. So, how do you choose THE BEST center for you or a loved one?
This Definitive Guide to Rehab has collected and answered your questions about addiction treatments. Here, we explain:
- What is essential to rehab?
- What can you expect from a rehab program?
- How can you finance your stay?
Challenge Myself: Day #141 Just For Today Read Something Inspirational
Today is Day #141 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says to read something inspirational.
The book says,
What kind of crisis are you facing- financial, medical or health, spiritual, educational, or relationship?
Whatever it is, you can bet that others have faced similar situations. Life beats up on everyone from time to time. If you don't want to reach out to a trusted friend or professional, find hope, optimism, and perhaps a path out of your situation in the stories of others.
For example, if your spouse needs an organ transplant, read the stories of patients who have already been through that ordeal. Draw inspiration, relief, hope and a sense of renewal from your reading.
When asked many people will say that they find inspiration in reading the Bible. For others a Devotional Book or even a Book of uplifting quotes or poems can help in times of crisis. Look online for inspirational websites of information and ideas. The crisis may be the same but we each draw our own inspiration from many different areas.
Just For Today: I will read and share something uplifting.
Many of us who love an addict need to hear words of inspiration. Please share in comment your favorite book of inspiration and/or your favorite inspirational quote- whatever it is that you gain your inspiration from, I would love to hear others ideas. Thank you.
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
What kind of crisis are you facing- financial, medical or health, spiritual, educational, or relationship?
Whatever it is, you can bet that others have faced similar situations. Life beats up on everyone from time to time. If you don't want to reach out to a trusted friend or professional, find hope, optimism, and perhaps a path out of your situation in the stories of others.
For example, if your spouse needs an organ transplant, read the stories of patients who have already been through that ordeal. Draw inspiration, relief, hope and a sense of renewal from your reading.
When asked many people will say that they find inspiration in reading the Bible. For others a Devotional Book or even a Book of uplifting quotes or poems can help in times of crisis. Look online for inspirational websites of information and ideas. The crisis may be the same but we each draw our own inspiration from many different areas.
Just For Today: I will read and share something uplifting.
Many of us who love an addict need to hear words of inspiration. Please share in comment your favorite book of inspiration and/or your favorite inspirational quote- whatever it is that you gain your inspiration from, I would love to hear others ideas. Thank you.
From the book: Live Happy
(Book) I Saw Your Mother Crying
This book was written by a local author Earl Hairston who lives here in Martinsburg, WVIn 1986, a small town in West Virginia was under siege from cocaine and Jamaican posse's. This is the story of my life. I too was under siege to cocaine. A perfect storm of addiction, consuming everything in its wake, including me.
It is the story of a mother's love for her son, her family, and her unrelenting efforts to break that siege in their lives.
A story of redemption and salvation through a personal awakening and the efforts of a community that refused to watch the continued destruction.
A roller coaster ride of blood, pain, tears, and fury. Told through the eyes of a man who found himself deep in the belly of a monster; swallowed whole by the white knuckle grip of addiction. A mother's love and her desperate attempt to break the cycle was the path to redemption, but would he choose to follow it?
This book is available on Amazon for Kindle and in Paperback
Saturday, December 17, 2016
A Real Drug Free America?
A real drug free America Starts With...
Removing the Money, Incentives and the Pay to Play between Physicians, Lobbyists, Politicians and...
Big Pharma!!!!
Challenge Myself: Day #140 A Sauna Helps
Today is Day #140 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today take a sauna or steam bath.
The book says,
If you believe that time spent in a sauna or steam bath is healthy because sweating releases unwanted material from the body and improves circulation, you are correct.
Make sure that you are in good health by checking with your physician before stepping into a sauna or a steam room.
Also, it's important to drink lots of water to replace what you lose from perspiration. Taking a sauna or steam bath can eliminate toxins and excess sodium, relax tense and sore muscles, and enable you to relax into your happy place.
Just For Today: I will definitely check out the places in West Virginia that are Natural Hot Springs and add them to my want to see list. For today, I will relax in a hot bath.
How to Create Your Own Sauna In Your Bathroom
pic from: Swimming Holes
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
 |
| Natural Hot Spring In WV |
Make sure that you are in good health by checking with your physician before stepping into a sauna or a steam room.
Also, it's important to drink lots of water to replace what you lose from perspiration. Taking a sauna or steam bath can eliminate toxins and excess sodium, relax tense and sore muscles, and enable you to relax into your happy place.
Just For Today: I will definitely check out the places in West Virginia that are Natural Hot Springs and add them to my want to see list. For today, I will relax in a hot bath.
How to Create Your Own Sauna In Your Bathroom
pic from: Swimming Holes
From the book: Live Happy
(Documentary) The Drugging Of Our Children
In the absence of any objective medical tests to determine who has ADD or ADHD, doctors rely in part on standardized assessments and the impressions of teachers and guardians while they administration leaves little room for other causes or aggravating factors, such as diet, or environment. Starting in the 1980's teachers, principles and school systems began diagnosing without degrees in any medical field.
Hence, diagnosing a child or adolescent with ADD or ADHD is often the outcome, although no organic basis for either disease has yet to be clinically proven.
Psychiatrists may then prescribe psychotropic drugs for the children without first without making it clear to parents that these medications can have severe side-effects including insomnia, loss of appetite, headaches, psychotic symptoms and even potentially fatal adverse reactions, such as cardiac arrhythmia.
If we are going to look at the entire picture, the realm of addiction goes outside of OxyContin, Hydrocodone and all the other pain killers that were over prescribed. There is an over prescribing of these drugs as well.
And yet, despite these dangers, many school systems actually work with government agencies to force parents to drug their children, threatening those who refuse with the prospect of having their children taken from the home unless they cooperate.
Other Links You may Also want to Read:
Drug Dealer, M.D.: Misunderstandings and Good Intentions Fueled by the Opioid Epidemic
Adderall Has Destroyed an Entire Generation
Video found @ youtube
(Book) Generation Rx
Greg Critser's brilliantly incisive Generation Rx moves the conversation about prescription drugs to where it hits home: our own bodies. How, he asks, has "big pharma" created a nation of
pharmaceutical tribes, each with its own unique beliefs, taboos, and brand loyalties? How have powerful chemical compounds for chronic diseases, once controlled by physicians, become substances we feel entitled to, whether we need them or not? How did we come to hate drug companies but love their pills?
Read on in Generation Rx for:
-- exclusive interviews with the strategists, scientists, and current and former heads of GlaxoSmithKline, Eli Lilly, Merck, Roche, and more
-- a first-ever, inside look at the rollicking business story behind pharma's rise to power
-- the dramatic effects our drug culture is having on our major organs, from the liver to the heart to the brain
-- why old bodies and young bodies are the biggest, and riskiest, arenas for our great American prescription pill party
-- how the largely uncharted terrain of polypharmacy (various drugs taken together) has unleashed unanticipated, often deadly, consequences on unwitting patients
Generation Rx will make every American who has ever taken a prescription drug look anew at what’s in our medicine cabinets, and why.
Read on in Generation Rx for:
-- exclusive interviews with the strategists, scientists, and current and former heads of GlaxoSmithKline, Eli Lilly, Merck, Roche, and more
-- a first-ever, inside look at the rollicking business story behind pharma's rise to power
-- the dramatic effects our drug culture is having on our major organs, from the liver to the heart to the brain
-- why old bodies and young bodies are the biggest, and riskiest, arenas for our great American prescription pill party
-- how the largely uncharted terrain of polypharmacy (various drugs taken together) has unleashed unanticipated, often deadly, consequences on unwitting patients
Generation Rx will make every American who has ever taken a prescription drug look anew at what’s in our medicine cabinets, and why.
This book is available on Amazon for Kindle, in Hardcover and in Paperback
APP: Narcan Now
Adapt Pharma, Limited, launched of a new smartphone app, NARCAN Now. This free app provides guidance and education for recognizing symptoms of a suspected opioid overdose, a 3-step guide for administering NARCAN (naloxone HCI) Nasal Spray, an instructional video and immediate access to local emergency 911 services. The app's simple and easy-to-use design equips those administering NARCAN Nasal Spray with an important new tool that complements the prescribing and patient information. NARCAN Nasal Spray is not a substitute for emergency medical care. See indications and important safety information below.
The NARCAN Now app is available through Apple iTunes Store and Google Play for Android
NARCAN Nasal Spray is the only FDA-approved, ready-to-use naloxone nasal spray that delivers a 4 mg concentrated dose of naloxone in a single spray. NARCAN Nasal Spray is available at a discounted Public Interest Price to qualifying group purchasers including law enforcement, community naloxone distribution programs and first responders. The product has 3rd party insurance coverage.
A free carton of NARCAN Nasal Spray is also available for every high school in the United States.
Read More>>>>>>>>>>>> @Narcan Now App
Were the 80's Kids the Guinea Pigs for Generation Rx?
I am a baby boomer. My children were 80's kids known otherwise as Generation Y. Known to me as the guinea pigs to Generation Rx. You may know some of them yourself. The generation of kids who rate a hang nail and paper cut in the same pain scale as an
Friday, December 16, 2016
What Is Narcan/Naloxone?
What is Narcan?
Narcan Nasal Spray contains naloxone hydrochloride. Naloxone blocks or reverses the effects of opioid medication, including extreme drowsiness, slowed breathing, or loss of consciousness. An opioid is sometimes called a narcotic.
Narcan Nasal Spray is used to treat an opioid overdose in an emergency situation. This medicine should not be used in place of emergency medical care for an overdose.
Narcan Nasal Spray is also used to help diagnose whether a person has used an overdose of an opioid.
Narcan Nasal Spray contains naloxone hydrochloride. Naloxone blocks or reverses the effects of opioid medication, including extreme drowsiness, slowed breathing, or loss of consciousness. An opioid is sometimes called a narcotic.
Narcan Nasal Spray is used to treat an opioid overdose in an emergency situation. This medicine should not be used in place of emergency medical care for an overdose.
Narcan Nasal Spray is also used to help diagnose whether a person has used an overdose of an opioid.
Read More>>>>>>>>>>>>>>@ Important information
Up For Discussion: Should Politicians Submit To Drug Tests?
I haven't posted an Up For Discussion Post in a few months. I have thought about a few topics lately. One topic I come back to is Should Politicians Have to Submit to a Drug Test?Should they submit to a Drug Test Before Running For Office? OR Should they at least submit to a drug test before taking office?
The majority of us working folks have to submit to a drug test as
Challenge Myself: Day #139 Drink Your Juice
Today is Day #139 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today when stressed we need antioxidants. It's as simple as drinking a glass of juice!
The book says,
Can you say antioxidants?
During a crisis, your body responds by releasing turbo-charging stress hormones that flood your cardiovascular system to prepare you to deal with the emergency. But stress hormones flooding the system can also cause damage.
Antioxidants, substances found in certain fruits and vegetables, act as scavengers of free radicals (by-products created when cells use oxygen) and can both prevent and repair free radical damage.
Squeeze or use a juicer to extract the juice from organic vegetables and fruits such as oranges, limes, strawberries, carrots, apricots, peaches, cantaloupes and green leafy vegetables. Pomegranate, purple grapes and cranberries are high in phytochemicals and are good antioxidant agents as well.
Drinking fresh, organic juice is especially good for when you are under duress.
Just For Today: No one will take care of me, but me. I will start today healthier.
Pic from Pinterest
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Can you say antioxidants?
During a crisis, your body responds by releasing turbo-charging stress hormones that flood your cardiovascular system to prepare you to deal with the emergency. But stress hormones flooding the system can also cause damage.Antioxidants, substances found in certain fruits and vegetables, act as scavengers of free radicals (by-products created when cells use oxygen) and can both prevent and repair free radical damage.
Squeeze or use a juicer to extract the juice from organic vegetables and fruits such as oranges, limes, strawberries, carrots, apricots, peaches, cantaloupes and green leafy vegetables. Pomegranate, purple grapes and cranberries are high in phytochemicals and are good antioxidant agents as well.
Drinking fresh, organic juice is especially good for when you are under duress.
Just For Today: No one will take care of me, but me. I will start today healthier.
Pic from Pinterest
From the book: Live Happy
Thursday, December 15, 2016
Challenge Myself: Day #138 Stay Away From Drama
Today is Day #138 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is to stay away from melodramatic rhetoric.
The book says,
You know a drama queen when you see one. Understandably, people in crisis react differently but drama queens are all about being the center of attention.
Calm, clear thinking is what is most needed in dealing with a crisis; melodramatic or emotionally inflammatory rhetoric is not helpful.
If Chicken Little runs to you and shrieks that the sky is falling and everyone is going to perish, he or she is either genuinely panicked or vying for attention.
One way to deal with her or him is to not react. Reassure her or him in a calm, quiet, unfazed tone: "I can see that you are upset. I assure you that the sky is not falling. You are overreacting."
Let your quiet demeanor and words stand in stark contrast to his or her prostrations. If he or she continues, leave the room and reclaim your own mental/emotional equilibrium.
Don't give away your power of have happiness.
Just For Today: Will make it a purpose to stay away from drama!
from the book: Live Happy
The book says,
You know a drama queen when you see one. Understandably, people in crisis react differently but drama queens are all about being the center of attention.
Calm, clear thinking is what is most needed in dealing with a crisis; melodramatic or emotionally inflammatory rhetoric is not helpful.
If Chicken Little runs to you and shrieks that the sky is falling and everyone is going to perish, he or she is either genuinely panicked or vying for attention.
One way to deal with her or him is to not react. Reassure her or him in a calm, quiet, unfazed tone: "I can see that you are upset. I assure you that the sky is not falling. You are overreacting."
Let your quiet demeanor and words stand in stark contrast to his or her prostrations. If he or she continues, leave the room and reclaim your own mental/emotional equilibrium.
Don't give away your power of have happiness.
Just For Today: Will make it a purpose to stay away from drama!
from the book: Live Happy
Wednesday, December 14, 2016
Challenge Myself: Day #137 Skim Pebbles Across the Water
Today is Day #137 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today when you are stressed, skim pebbles across the water.
The book says,
At some point when you are in crisis mode, you need to feel expansive and push away the walls of your crucible.
When you can steal ten to twenty minutes, retreat into nature and do something mindless like skimming pebbles across the water in a reservoir, lake, river, pond or the sea.
If your thoughts start to plow that same old field of concern about the crisis you are facing, sink into an awareness of only your breath. Be mindful of the cycle of inhaling and exhaling.
Then, if you can, guide your inner awareness into the space between breaths. Experience the limitless boundary of your mind and return to serenity.
Just For Today: I will seek the ways to inner peace and serenity
pic found @ Woof Shinny Whisper
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
At some point when you are in crisis mode, you need to feel expansive and push away the walls of your crucible.
When you can steal ten to twenty minutes, retreat into nature and do something mindless like skimming pebbles across the water in a reservoir, lake, river, pond or the sea.
If your thoughts start to plow that same old field of concern about the crisis you are facing, sink into an awareness of only your breath. Be mindful of the cycle of inhaling and exhaling.
Then, if you can, guide your inner awareness into the space between breaths. Experience the limitless boundary of your mind and return to serenity.
Just For Today: I will seek the ways to inner peace and serenity
pic found @ Woof Shinny Whisper
From the book: Live Happy
Tuesday, December 13, 2016
Challenge Myself: Day #136 Overcome With Emotion
Today is Day #136 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today says when we are overwhelmed just scream into a pillow.
The book says,
If you are ever so overcome with emotion that you can't seem to hold it inside, scream into a pillow.
This technique releases the pent-up energy holding those negative feelings inside and works especially well for anger or grief.
Sob your sorrow into the pillow. Or, scream the words of anger that you can no longer hold in.
Empty out the feelings. If necessary, pound the pillow with your fists. You may need to get a bigger pillow or a new one if your beating it destroys it. It's a small price to pay for expressing rage.
Repeat the process until you know the emotion is spent and there's no longer a need to do anything. Then, when you peace is restored, do something to make yourself happy like listening to beautiful music or sipping your favorite tea.
Just For Today: When I am overcome with emotion I will search for the ways to restore peace.
See Also: Overcome With Emotion
pic found @ newsfeed.time
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
If you are ever so overcome with emotion that you can't seem to hold it inside, scream into a pillow.
This technique releases the pent-up energy holding those negative feelings inside and works especially well for anger or grief.
Sob your sorrow into the pillow. Or, scream the words of anger that you can no longer hold in.
Empty out the feelings. If necessary, pound the pillow with your fists. You may need to get a bigger pillow or a new one if your beating it destroys it. It's a small price to pay for expressing rage.
Repeat the process until you know the emotion is spent and there's no longer a need to do anything. Then, when you peace is restored, do something to make yourself happy like listening to beautiful music or sipping your favorite tea.
Just For Today: When I am overcome with emotion I will search for the ways to restore peace.
See Also: Overcome With Emotion
pic found @ newsfeed.time
From the book: Live Happy
Sunday, December 11, 2016
(Book) Unexpected Heroes
UNEXPECTED HEROES is a compelling collection of sixty-four true stories by mothers who were faced with no other choice but to step directly into the line of fire to save the most innocent victims of the war against drugs —their grandchildren. The reader will get a unique glimpse into the world of these women where they forged ahead beyond the devastating impact of addiction on their own families with remarkable strength, determination and unwavering hope. What others are saying:
“…One of those rare books you can’t put down…Stories are both heartbreaking and uplifting…A must read.” –Patricia Rosen, publisher of Sober World Magazine
“…An unflinching look at the ways in which addiction affects the entire family…The wisdom offered within the pages is a valuable resource for families who struggle with this issue, are fighting for the best interest of the children involved, and may feel they are alone in the battle.” –Deborah Doucette, author of Raising Our Children’s Children: Room in the Heart and The Forgotten Roses
“…A beautiful composition of courage, compassion, wisdom, strength, love, honesty and hard truths…heartbreaking…enlightening…empowering. –Sandra Swenson, author of The Joey Song
“Very highly recommended reading for anyone who stands to be positively enlightened by the stories of these exceptional individuals.” –Judy Herzanek, Changing Lives Foundation and co-author of Why Don’t They Just Quit
“Impressive and dedicated stories… a gifted work that will touch your heart.” –Karen Best Wright, author of I Love You From The Edges: Lessons From Raising Grandchildren
“I recommend this book…Raw, gut-wrenching stories of those on the front lines of this fight…” –Mark Turansky, author of Figure it Face it & Fix it: Your Surprising Solution to Addictions and Substance
This book written by Lynne Gassel and Laura Chapman is available on Amazon for Kindle and in Paperback
(Book) Love and Addiction
In Love and Addiction, published 40 years ago and sold as a mass-market paperback on love, Stanton Peele and Archie Brodsky laid out every major issue confronting the addiction field today. This pioneering classic, which was excerpted in Cosmopolitan and spawned the codependence movement, is the first—and still the definitive—book on addictive love. But it is much more than that; it is the book that explains why addiction is not what we think it is. Love and Addiction focuses on dependent love relationships to explore what both love and addiction really are—psychologically, socially, and culturally.Addiction is an overgrown, dependent, destructive relationship. Love is the opposite, a sharing, growth-inspiring one. The authors’ analysis makes clear that an addiction is an experience that takes on meaning and power in light of a person’s needs, desires, beliefs, expectations, and fears. By showing how addiction grows out of ordinary human experience, Peele and Brodsky offer a liberating understanding of all addictions—to alcohol, drugs, tobacco, food, gambling, shopping, electronic media, sex, or love. In 1975, Love and Addiction boldly proposed ideas whose truth is only now being recognized:
- Addiction is not limited to drugs, and drugs are not necessarily addictive.
- AA’s 12 steps are not the last word in addiction treatment. On the contrary, practically oriented addiction treatments are more effective.
- The goal of addiction treatment and recovery is not abstinence to the exclusion of all else, but to build a life that rules out addiction.
- Love is the opposite of the self-protective constriction of addiction; it is the expansion of your spirit with another human being.
“Destined to become a classic!” Psychology Today proclaimed in 1975. Rereading Love and Addiction 35 years later, addiction researcher Rowdy Yates wrote that the book “still reads absolutely true as an understanding of addictive behavior.”
Reading today this clairvoyant analysis of the most challenging issues we face in the twenty-first century—the meaning of love and the cure for addiction—you will recognize both the current relevance and enduring value of Love and Addiction, now reissued as a Kindle edition with a new (2014) Authors’ Preface, the Authors’ Preface written for the 1991 paperback reissue, and a brief new introduction to each chapter. Otherwise, nothing has been changed in the original book.
Written by: Stanton Peele and available on Amazon for Kindle, Written in Hardcover and Paperback
Challenge Myself: Day #135 Stay Strong Stay Focused
Today is Day #135 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today is to think of one thing you need to stay strong and focused.
The book says,
Think about what you would need to be grounded and focused if a crisis were to show up in your life five minutes from now.
What could instantly calm you and help you deal with a rise in possibly negative emotions?
Would a whiff of sandalwood help?
How about a shot of Brandy?
Would fingering your prayer beads of finding a place of absolute silenece where you could think and pray work best?
A crisis can arise suddenly and without warning. Whether it's an emergency, a cataclysmic natural disaster, or a financial catastrophe, a crisis often requires you to figure something out fairly quickly.
Knowing what will get you through the next minute and the minute after that can be as helpful as having an escape plan for the unlikely event that your house catches on fire.
Just For Today: I will stay focused and live today without fear.
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Think about what you would need to be grounded and focused if a crisis were to show up in your life five minutes from now.
What could instantly calm you and help you deal with a rise in possibly negative emotions?
Would a whiff of sandalwood help?
How about a shot of Brandy?
Would fingering your prayer beads of finding a place of absolute silenece where you could think and pray work best?
A crisis can arise suddenly and without warning. Whether it's an emergency, a cataclysmic natural disaster, or a financial catastrophe, a crisis often requires you to figure something out fairly quickly.
Knowing what will get you through the next minute and the minute after that can be as helpful as having an escape plan for the unlikely event that your house catches on fire.
Just For Today: I will stay focused and live today without fear.
From the book: Live Happy
Saturday, December 10, 2016
Drugwatch: BBC Education & Training video (1986)
I started watching this video but haven't finished. The video was from 1986 and the numbers then are just as startling as they are today. The ages of those interviewed are just as young as they are today.
video found on youtube
"STOP THE MADNESS" (1985, 1986) Anti-Drug Music Video
This video includes Claudia Wells, New Edition, LaToya Jackson, Whitney Houston, David Hasselhoff, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kim Fields, Herb Alpert, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Darrell Creswell, Tim Feehan, Casey Kasem and Boogaloo Shrimp from the Breakin' franchise. Perhaps the main star of the video was Ronald Reagan's wife, Nancy Reagan, whose main cause as First Lady was speaking out against drugs, and forming the "Just Say No" anti-drug association. Mrs. Reagan appeared twice in Stop the Madness.
This video also featured Stacy Keach, an actor arrested and jailed for possession of cocaine in 1984 immediately prior to the release of the video to American high schools.
As I watched the video I swear I thought a lot about Whitney Houston whose life was taken from drug use. I also thought I spotted a young Prince. How many in this video of years ago are now or has been affected by their own drug use?
It is one thing to for our celebrities to say, I am using this message in a more personal way to say I had a drug problem and I got help for it; than to say Look at me, I am fabulous and behind closed doors I secretly use and abuse drugs.
It is one thing to for our celebrities to say, I am using this message in a more personal way to say I had a drug problem and I got help for it; than to say Look at me, I am fabulous and behind closed doors I secretly use and abuse drugs.
video found on youtube
The 80's Campaign: Just Say No!
Thinking about all of the tools that could be used for awareness- community, schools and young people- took me back many years. How many of us reading can remember the, Just Say No campaign from the 1980's? "Just Say No" was an advertising campaign, part of the U.S. "War on Drugs", prevalent during the 1980s and early 1990s, to discourage
A Life Lost: Another Side of This Addiction
Most of the time here in Martinsburg and Berkeley County we hear of a life lost to overdose of heroin. When your loved one is actively using and abusing your loved ones life is in danger in more ways than you probably imagine. They often steal to get their next fix and could be shot entering a home or a property in which they are committing a crime.
Someone sent me this story months ago and I saved it. When Mr. James Boyd was trying to help the young lady a couple of months ago and she was talking about her life on the streets I thought of this young lady, Tina and how eerily similar the two ladies stories were except that Tina was never given the chance to tell her family she was ready for help because someone chose to take her life.
I then couldn't find it in the saved section. I recently found it and wanted to share it. Reading it tore me up that a life was lost in this town in such a horrible way. A beautiful person is gone from a more sinister, dark, ugly and evil side that we don't often hear about. I am talking about murder.
This was written by this young woman's family member in the hopes of reaching out to those
Someone sent me this story months ago and I saved it. When Mr. James Boyd was trying to help the young lady a couple of months ago and she was talking about her life on the streets I thought of this young lady, Tina and how eerily similar the two ladies stories were except that Tina was never given the chance to tell her family she was ready for help because someone chose to take her life.
I then couldn't find it in the saved section. I recently found it and wanted to share it. Reading it tore me up that a life was lost in this town in such a horrible way. A beautiful person is gone from a more sinister, dark, ugly and evil side that we don't often hear about. I am talking about murder.
This was written by this young woman's family member in the hopes of reaching out to those
Challenge Myself: Day #134 Rely On Your Inner Wisdom
Today is Day #134 of the Nar Anon Group Just For Today Challenge. I am also integrating the Live Happy into my Challenge. The Live Happy Challenge for today ask experts for their opinions, but rely on your own wisdom.
The book says,
Rely on your inner guidance when you are in a seemingly intractable place and need to make an important decision, such as committing a child with extreme special needs to a specialized care facility.
You may fear that you can't make that decision. How can you find help? Seek expert opinions, talk to health providers and caregivers, get insights from families in your situation.
Go into the darkness, the place of unknowingness, and quiet the chatter in your mind. Be very quiet and receive what the darkness has to offer. Let your thoughts move towards hope, inspiration, and, finally, to your decision. Once your decision is made, don't second guess it. Be at peace.
Depending on your situation and the crisis at hand this example can be applied in different situations arising. Replace thechild with special needs and insert your loved one suffering the disease of addiction.
In seeking help none of us really knows what to do in the beginning. I know I didn't. I wanted to find help for my son, but didn't know where to even start. That is why I have put so much information and links on this blog in the hopes of helping others just like you who don't know where to start.
First and foremost is yourself. How are you holding up in this crisis with your addict? Visit my page about Nar Anon. Do you need Nar Anon? Ask yourself the questions I've put on the page. You probably don't realize it but many who come to Nar Anon, come armed with information on treatment centers and are ready and available to help you. You also can contact The Hope Dealer Project for more information.
On the top of the blog you will see a page called, Treatment and Recovery Assistance. It is loaded with information including:
What Questions Should I Ask a Drug Rehab?
How Do I Choose The Right Rehab Based on My Loved Ones Need?
I have a link on How to Avoid SCAM's in the Rehabilitation Industry
The page is filled with phone numbers and information for you. If you scroll the side bar there is a section on local resources with links that I have provided.
Just For Today: I rely on my inner wisdom in so many areas of life.
From the book: Live Happy
The book says,
Rely on your inner guidance when you are in a seemingly intractable place and need to make an important decision, such as committing a child with extreme special needs to a specialized care facility.
You may fear that you can't make that decision. How can you find help? Seek expert opinions, talk to health providers and caregivers, get insights from families in your situation.
Go into the darkness, the place of unknowingness, and quiet the chatter in your mind. Be very quiet and receive what the darkness has to offer. Let your thoughts move towards hope, inspiration, and, finally, to your decision. Once your decision is made, don't second guess it. Be at peace.
Depending on your situation and the crisis at hand this example can be applied in different situations arising. Replace the
In seeking help none of us really knows what to do in the beginning. I know I didn't. I wanted to find help for my son, but didn't know where to even start. That is why I have put so much information and links on this blog in the hopes of helping others just like you who don't know where to start.
First and foremost is yourself. How are you holding up in this crisis with your addict? Visit my page about Nar Anon. Do you need Nar Anon? Ask yourself the questions I've put on the page. You probably don't realize it but many who come to Nar Anon, come armed with information on treatment centers and are ready and available to help you. You also can contact The Hope Dealer Project for more information.
On the top of the blog you will see a page called, Treatment and Recovery Assistance. It is loaded with information including:
What Questions Should I Ask a Drug Rehab?
How Do I Choose The Right Rehab Based on My Loved Ones Need?
I have a link on How to Avoid SCAM's in the Rehabilitation Industry
The page is filled with phone numbers and information for you. If you scroll the side bar there is a section on local resources with links that I have provided.
Just For Today: I rely on my inner wisdom in so many areas of life.
From the book: Live Happy
Friday, December 9, 2016
(Song) One Last Breath
If you love someone actively using and abusing heroin (or drugs) take a few moments right now, set aside all of your differences and misunderstandings, for one moment let go of all of those pent up feelings and anger, take a deep breath and reach out to your loved one.
Let them know you love them the person, not the drug.
Offer them help for their addiction instead of a handout.
Who knows?
Right this very minute they could be on the edge and just holding on before falling.
Maybe they are at the end of the road to nowhere and trying to escape.
Maybe they are down to one last breath.
It's possible that your loved one has realized that somewhere in His grace
They only want to live.
They are calling out to the heaven's, "Save Me"
It's possible today that your someone who is using could be
Six feet from the edge and falling quick and thinking maybe six feet ain't so far down.
As long as they are breathing there is Hope and a way out.
video from youtube
The words for this post is from the lyrics to the song, One Last Breath
The Holidays and Addiction: Have A Plan
I had hoped to share a guest post on this topic, but the person I asked to share has been so busy. I understand. Life takes everyone in so many directions it is often hard to yell, Stop! I did the next best thing and went in search of the Internet to help me with this task. I found, several stories and very good articles. The story @ Social Work Today, Surviving The Season of Stress has interesting info on Managing Expectations, Handling Those Who Are Still Actively Using, Supporting The Recovering Addict, Learning To Let Go
One article written I learned that once our addict is in the stages of Recovery that we too can help, but in ways that don't hinder their recovery. One is having a Plan and a Back Up Plan for the holidays.
I found a nice informative article written by, Christina Reardon, MSW, LSW for Social Work Today.
In addition to helping families with substance abuse issues manage the stress of the holidays, social workers may be called on to assist recovering addicts concerned about relapsing during the holidays. There are many strategies people in recovery can use to stay clean and sober amid the merriment of the season, according to behavioral health professionals contacted by Social Work Today. Among these strategies are the following:
• Prepare ahead of time. Recovering addicts should assemble a “recovery kit” they can take with them before joining their families for holiday celebrations, says Robert W. Mooney, MD, an addiction psychiatrist and medical director at Willingway Hospital in Statesboro, GA. At a bare minimum, this kit should include the contact information for the recovering person’s sponsor and a backup. Recovering people who are traveling out of town also should bring reading material, such as the Alcohol Anonymous Big Book and books of daily meditations, and attend support meetings available at their destination.
• Arrive early, leave early. People in recovery who are attending holiday parties should consider arriving and leaving early since alcohol and drug use typically becomes more prevalent as the party wears on. Recovering addicts should not worry that an early departure will offend the host, Mooney says.
• Bring beverages. Mooney encourages recovering addicts, especially recovering alcoholics, to bring their own beverages to holiday parties. That will allow the person in recovery to have more control over what he or she drinks and not fall victim to other attendees’ attempts to spike beverages with alcohol or drugs as a joke.
“Many people don’t take [the importance of recovery] seriously. For them, it’s no big deal,” Mooney says. “For [the recovering person], it can be a matter of life or death.”
• Have an escape plan. If a situation arises at a family gathering, such as an argument or pressure from relatives to drink alcohol, the recovering person may feel tempted to relapse, and he or she needs to take corrective action as quickly as possible, says Donna M. Hunter, LCSW, CAP, a social worker in Booneville, AR.
“I tell people in recovery that if they feel uncomfortable or feel that they need to use again because of the family situation, they need to get out or do what they need to do to maintain their sobriety because ultimately, that’s what’s most important,” she says.
Recovering people must remember that they are the ones who control whether they will relapse during the holidays, Mooney says.
“They have to realize that it’s not the family’s responsibility to keep them sober; it’s their responsibility,” he says.
Read More@ Families and Addiction: Surviving The Season of Stress
One article written I learned that once our addict is in the stages of Recovery that we too can help, but in ways that don't hinder their recovery. One is having a Plan and a Back Up Plan for the holidays.
I found a nice informative article written by, Christina Reardon, MSW, LSW for Social Work Today.
Helping Family Members Avoid Relapse During the Holidays
In addition to helping families with substance abuse issues manage the stress of the holidays, social workers may be called on to assist recovering addicts concerned about relapsing during the holidays. There are many strategies people in recovery can use to stay clean and sober amid the merriment of the season, according to behavioral health professionals contacted by Social Work Today. Among these strategies are the following:
• Prepare ahead of time. Recovering addicts should assemble a “recovery kit” they can take with them before joining their families for holiday celebrations, says Robert W. Mooney, MD, an addiction psychiatrist and medical director at Willingway Hospital in Statesboro, GA. At a bare minimum, this kit should include the contact information for the recovering person’s sponsor and a backup. Recovering people who are traveling out of town also should bring reading material, such as the Alcohol Anonymous Big Book and books of daily meditations, and attend support meetings available at their destination.
• Arrive early, leave early. People in recovery who are attending holiday parties should consider arriving and leaving early since alcohol and drug use typically becomes more prevalent as the party wears on. Recovering addicts should not worry that an early departure will offend the host, Mooney says.
• Bring beverages. Mooney encourages recovering addicts, especially recovering alcoholics, to bring their own beverages to holiday parties. That will allow the person in recovery to have more control over what he or she drinks and not fall victim to other attendees’ attempts to spike beverages with alcohol or drugs as a joke.
“Many people don’t take [the importance of recovery] seriously. For them, it’s no big deal,” Mooney says. “For [the recovering person], it can be a matter of life or death.”
• Have an escape plan. If a situation arises at a family gathering, such as an argument or pressure from relatives to drink alcohol, the recovering person may feel tempted to relapse, and he or she needs to take corrective action as quickly as possible, says Donna M. Hunter, LCSW, CAP, a social worker in Booneville, AR.
“I tell people in recovery that if they feel uncomfortable or feel that they need to use again because of the family situation, they need to get out or do what they need to do to maintain their sobriety because ultimately, that’s what’s most important,” she says.
Recovering people must remember that they are the ones who control whether they will relapse during the holidays, Mooney says.
“They have to realize that it’s not the family’s responsibility to keep them sober; it’s their responsibility,” he says.
Families of active substance abusers and people in recovery may need extra support managing festive but stressful holiday celebrations. Read some sound advice on helping families handle the potential problems.
Read More@ Families and Addiction: Surviving The Season of Stress
The Holiday's And Grief
With so many lives lost to the disease of addiction with the holiday season upon us so many parents, children and loved ones who will spend the holidays without their loved ones this year.
As I was reading through the list of those names on my page Never Forget Them Always Speak Their Names I was reminded of the pain that these families will suffer through the holidays.
A week or so ago I read a link to a story, The First Holiday Season Without Me and I continue to pray for those families locally through this holiday season who have lost their loved ones to this disease.
As I was reading through the list of those names on my page Never Forget Them Always Speak Their Names I was reminded of the pain that these families will suffer through the holidays.
A week or so ago I read a link to a story, The First Holiday Season Without Me and I continue to pray for those families locally through this holiday season who have lost their loved ones to this disease.
"The holidays are approaching, they were always so big when I was little. Thanksgiving was a feast, you always were the best cook mom. I think what I miss most is your homemade cranberry sauce. I know how trivial this sounds, but I miss so many little things that I took for granted.
Christmas was always magical , both of you went to never ending lengths to make it so. I could always tell whether you wrapped the presents or if dad did. He needed a lot of help.
We always would decorate the tree together, you still have all the handmade ornaments I made throughout my childhood years. Mom treasured them and we always spent time reflecting on the memories attached..."
Read More>>>>>>>>>>>>>@ The First Holiday Season Without Me
Other pages of Interest:
If you are suffering this holiday and need someone to talk to, or you are depressed please reach out to someone!
If you know someone who is depressed or needs someone to talk to call them, reach out to them. Just a phone call to them to let them know you are thinking about them this holiday season may be all they are seeking.
Remember: Keep the list of the Important Holiday Numbers I have posted on hand just in case you need them
© 2016 Gossip Girl
If you know someone who is depressed or needs someone to talk to call them, reach out to them. Just a phone call to them to let them know you are thinking about them this holiday season may be all they are seeking.
Remember: Keep the list of the Important Holiday Numbers I have posted on hand just in case you need them
© 2016 Gossip Girl
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