Rehab Toronto https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca Drug & Addiction Rehab Toronto Ontario Mon, 19 Mar 2018 06:33:39 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=4.7.10 Prescription Painkiller Use in Canada https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/prescription-painkiller-use-canada/ https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/prescription-painkiller-use-canada/#respond Fri, 16 Feb 2018 18:57:03 +0000 https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/?p=857 Prescription Painkiller Canada is currently ranked 2nd for the world’s biggest consumers of pharmaceutical opioids. Despite the fact that the country is experiencing some of its worst numbers for opioid abuse and overdoses, the number of painkiller prescriptions continue to increase. Ironically, another number that continues to increase is the number of therapies meant to […]

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Prescription Painkiller

Canada is currently ranked 2nd for the world’s biggest consumers of pharmaceutical opioids. Despite the fact that the country is experiencing some of its worst numbers for opioid abuse and overdoses, the number of painkiller prescriptions continue to increase.

Ironically, another number that continues to increase is the number of therapies meant to treat dependency.

Prescription painkiller use in Canada is on the rise, and it’s not really a surprise—there were approximately 19 million prescriptions dispensed to Canadians in the year 2016. This number has increased from the year prior, when nearly 18.9 prescriptions were handed out.

Even as the country continues to struggle with addiction, painkiller prescriptions have climbed 6% in the last 5 years.

What is the problem?

Prescription painkiller use in Canada can be blamed by overprescribing, with far too many doctors abusing their powers. Patients continue to be sent away with more orders for painkillers, opening up brand new opportunities for painkiller abuse and addiction with each new patient.

An increased number of deaths have occurred in the last few years, a result of both accessibility to these painkillers, as well as the introduction of the opioid known as fentanyl.

Although the provinces are more than aware of the growing issue, all provinces have failed to make changes to their prescription requirements. Not only are doctors sending away patients with unnecessary prescriptions, but they’re also helping the drug market to thrive.

Drugs such as Oxycodone and fentanyl are booming markets, both legally and illegally. Attempts to try and educate doctors on the dangers of overprescribing are falling on deaf ears; the easy solution is far too attractive than the alternatives.

Opioid Epidemic  

Patients who were being treated with drugs for opioid addiction have grown exponentially in the last few years. In 2013, more than 40,000 Ontario citizens were prescribed drugs for their addiction. By 2016, the number had reached almost 60,000.

As doctors continue to carelessly prescribe these addictive drugs, more and more patients are becoming dependent on them. Instead of going to their doctor for more inventory, patients turn to the illegal drug trade to get fixes that are cheaper. As time goes on, patients require larger doses to maintain their high, which only helps to improve the success of the illegal drug trade further.

In an effort to reduce prescription painkiller use in Canada, the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated their guidelines in 2016. The goal of the updated version was to educate doctors about the epidemic, and to urge them to consider drug-free methods for their patients before they turned to painkillers.

For some doctors who are newer to the profession, their struggle is with patients who have already been using prescription painkillers by means of their retired physicians. To counteract these patients, doctors are encouraged to avoid this tactic with new patients.

More than 2,800 Canadians died from prescription painkillers and fentanyl overdoses in 2016; that’s an average of eight deaths per day. British Columbia suffered the highest number of opioid-related deaths in 2016, while Ontario suffered the highest number of opioid-related hospitalizations.

Prescription painkiller use in Canada is a very serious problem; for those patients who have the option to obtain prescription painkillers, it is suggested that they request other options for treatment whenever possible.

 

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How to Stop Smoking Weed https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/how-to-stop-smoking-weed/ https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/how-to-stop-smoking-weed/#respond Wed, 14 Feb 2018 19:34:47 +0000 https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/?p=854 Marijuana is the most popularly used illegal drug in Canada, and Canadian youth possess some of the highest user numbers (28%) compared to other developed countries. It has been reported that the chronic use of marijuana can have dangerous effects within the body, affecting both the physical and mental aspects of the body and impeding […]

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Marijuana is the most popularly used illegal drug in Canada, and Canadian youth possess some of the highest user numbers (28%) compared to other developed countries. It has been reported that the chronic use of marijuana can have dangerous effects within the body, affecting both the physical and mental aspects of the body and impeding brain function.

Users who want to know how to stop smoking weed are in luck, since there are many approaches to reducing dependency. A combination of efforts may be necessary to quit the habit for good, so if one approach doesn’t help, be sure to try a few other methods or blending a few of them.

How to Stop Smoking Weed

Recognition

As it is commonly said, admitting you have a problem is the first step in fixing the problem. Many people cannot seem to quit marijuana because they don’t believe they’ve lost control. However, if you begin to feel lost without your latest fix, or you become anxious when your sources dwindle, there is a good chance that weed has started taking hold of your daily life.

You can stop smoking weed by first admitting that you cannot function with the drug, and that you want to begin taking your life back. Be wary that quitting any kind of addiction is never easy, but if you’re prepared to do what it takes then you’ll be on the fast-track to newfound independence.

Give Yourself a Date

It is ideal to set some goals if you want to stop smoking weed; otherwise, it becomes incredibly easy to put off the day you should be smoke-free. Try to pick a date that is realistic for you—if you can quit by the end of the month, then write that goal down and make sure you see it every day.

If a month is too fast, don’t push yourself. By not giving yourself enough time, you increase your chances of relapsing.

Focus on your date, and slowly begin to wean yourself off of the usual amount of weed that you smoke. As the days go on, you should be using less and less until your last day requires no weed at all. This will take some organization; try to put up a visual calendar that reminds you of what you’re working towards.

Find New Hobbies

When you’re figuring out how to stop smoking weed, you’re probably going to be thinking about it a lot. As your weaning off of weed, try finding other hobbies that can take up your time such as painting, bowling with friends or rock climbing.

You might become pleasantly surprised at how much you enjoy these new pastimes, and you may even begin to see friends and family more often.

Quitting Cold Turkey

If you’re going to stop smoking weed the day you decide to quit, your road may be a little tougher. The first thing you’ll need to do is throw everything out, including the weed you have left and every accessory you use with it. This includes the contact information for your dealer.

Withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, irritability and mood swings. Keep your support system in the know about what you’re doing, so they can support your progress and keep you away from temptations.

Even if you know how to stop smoking weed, you may struggle to do it by yourself. Professional help is always an option, so consider seeking that added expertise if you can’t seem to quit on your own terms.

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Benefits of Traveling for Addiction Treatment https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/benefits-of-traveling-for-addiction-treatment/ https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/benefits-of-traveling-for-addiction-treatment/#respond Mon, 12 Feb 2018 23:53:29 +0000 https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/?p=849 Traveling for Addiction Treatment Improves Long-Term Recovery When an individual has made the decision to visit a rehabilitation centre for their addiction, a few questions might come to mind first including, “Where should I go?”, “Should I stay near home?” and “Would I benefit from going away?” Oftentimes users will assume that it makes the […]

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Traveling for Addiction Treatment Improves Long-Term Recovery

When an individual has made the decision to visit a rehabilitation centre for their addiction, a few questions might come to mind first including, “Where should I go?”, “Should I stay near home?” and “Would I benefit from going away?”

Oftentimes users will assume that it makes the most sense to get help in their own town. The travel time is shorter; they can still see their friends/family and they won’t have to miss school or work. However, convenience or fear isn’t always the best solution for someone fighting a drug dependency.

In fact, traveling away from home might be exactly what a user needs. If you or someone you know is deciding on a treatment center for their drug abuse, the following are some of the benefits of traveling for addiction treatment.

Specialized Treatment

Not every treatment center is capable of offering all of the same tools and programs, which means some centers aren’t able to provide the specific solutions a user needs. In these cases, users will only be getting part of the treatment that would be best for them.

A drug addict who considers all of their options- including those that are far away- will be much more likely to find a center that provides exactly what they need to quit.

Away from Temptation

 It is a lot easier to fall back into old habits when you’re in a familiar place. Users who stay close to home will often be exposed to the same triggers that made them start using in the first place, including specific places, situations and groups of people.

Traveling somewhere new can expose users to the feeling of a fresh start, in a place where they’ve never been and with people they’ve never met. The experience can inspire them to stay on the right track, since this new location is a constant reminder of the decision they’ve made and how far they’ve come.

Privacy

Not everyone is comfortable with the idea of people knowing about their addiction troubles. One of the benefits of traveling for addiction treatment, is that users can travel out of their town where everyone knows everything about everyone.

Instead of a user worrying about what everyone is thinking and adding to their stress, traveling away from home can help them to focus on the task at hand in a comfortable environment.

New Relationships

The opportunities for meeting new people in a new place are endless, and users will have no trouble finding people who share the same kinds of interests, personalities and future goals.

These kinds of relationships are critical for users once they’ve left treatment. Users can stay in contact with new friends online, or agree to meet a couple times a year to update each other on their progress. Users who are now drug-free might also be able to help one another to get past potential relapses, and to remind each other of everything they’ve overcome.

The benefits of traveling for addiction treatment are plenty, but there are also benefits to staying close to home. The individual admitting themselves will ultimately make the decision that suits them best, but it can be helpful to list out the pros and cons of each before choosing.

If you’re not sure which option is best for you, consider consulting a professional who can assess your situation and help you make an informed decision.

 

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6 Warning Signs of Opioid Addiction https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/6-warning-signs-opioid-addiction/ https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/6-warning-signs-opioid-addiction/#respond Sat, 10 Feb 2018 14:48:59 +0000 https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/?p=846 Opioids are a type of medicine that are commonly used to help relieve pain. To do this, opioids alter the signals being sent between the body and the brain, thus relieving the intensity of the pain and discomfort felt. Opioids also have the ability to alter the way the brain responds to pain, and are […]

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Opioids are a type of medicine that are commonly used to help relieve pain. To do this, opioids alter the signals being sent between the body and the brain, thus relieving the intensity of the pain and discomfort felt. Opioids also have the ability to alter the way the brain responds to pain, and are commonly prescribed for individuals suffering from surgery, injuries, dental procedures and cancers.

There are a wide range of substances that are included in the opioid category. These substances include: Methadone, heroin, opium, fentanyl, morphine and oxycodone.

When used properly, opioids can be extremely helpful to relieving pain and getting people back on their feet. However, opioids can also become very addictive, and those who misuse their prescriptions can become dependent on them overtime.

Not everyone will recognize their dependency on an opioid, or they may refuse to come to terms with their addiction. Individuals who are unsure whether an opioid addiction is present might consider these 6 warning signs of opioid addiction to get a better idea of the seriousness of their situation:

 

  1. Avoiding Responsibilities

When an individual begins to develop a dependency to an opioid, they often start dedicating a lot of their personal time to getting high or locating more of the substance. When this starts to happen, other responsibilities that they used to value start to become less important, and less time is dedicated to activities they used to love.

This can be true of activities like favorite hobbies and sports, but may also be true of more important things like family responsibilities, work duties, pets and other important parts of life. These kinds of changes are some of the more obvious signs for close friends and family.

 

  1. Neglecting Friends/Family

An addiction can be a very private matter, and individuals who are suffering from one might try to keep the problem hidden from those closest to them. In order to do this successfully, a person might neglect their friends and family for days and weeks at a time, and begin lying to them about their whereabouts.

 

  1. Lack of Personal Hygiene

When an individual is focused on getting their next fix, things like personal hygiene are of little importance. Friends and family may notice that a person begins to wear the same clothing, or dirty garments, and that they aren’t showering and tending to their outward appearance as much as they used to.
Onlookers may even notice that the individual has unusually bad breath, smelly clothing and bad body odor.

 

  1. Psychological Changes

Many of the drugs categorized under opioids tend to give users feelings of euphoria and energy, and as the drug wears off they begin to “crash”. Onlookers might notice these psychological changes when a person begins in a positive and elated mood, and then immediately begins to demonstrate lethargy, abrupt mood swings and paranoia.

Of the 6 signs of opioid addiction, these outward changes in mood are some of the most obvious that chemical imbalances are at play.

 

  1. Change in Circle of Friends

A user who has dedicated a lot of their time to using will often experience a loss of friends and partners, who do not understand their new habit. Simultaneously, they may begin to hang around a new group of friends who demonstrate similar addiction behaviors and physical attributes.

 

  1. Depending on Opioids to Function

If an individual can no longer function properly without the use of an opioid, then dependency has taken over. This is a sure sign of an addiction, as the body now believes that it cannot perform regular tasks without having the sensation of being ‘high’.

Those who feel a loved one may be addicted to opioids may want to keep an eye out for these 6 warning signs of opioid addiction. While the effects differ between users, physical and behavioral changes will become more obvious as the addiction worsens.

 

 

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How Does Methadone Treatment Work? https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/how-does-methadone-treatment-work/ https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/how-does-methadone-treatment-work/#respond Sat, 10 Feb 2018 14:38:19 +0000 https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/?p=843 Methadone is a type of opioid that is used both to alleviate pain, and can also be used to taper individuals off of other opioids for which they’ve become addicted. Although methadone does not affect individuals in the same way that other addictive opioids can, it still maintains the potential to become addictive. When used […]

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Methadone is a type of opioid that is used both to alleviate pain, and can also be used to taper individuals off of other opioids for which they’ve become addicted. Although methadone does not affect individuals in the same way that other addictive opioids can, it still maintains the potential to become addictive.

When used properly and in controlled amounts, methadone is able to create the same kind of effect on the brain as other opioids; however, individuals will not experience the same physical effects. When methadone is not used as prescribed, there is still the potential for a user to become dependent on the drug.

Those who are asking, ‘How does methadone treatment work?’ should know that the success rate ranges anywhere from 60-90%. The following information gives a more in-depth look at the process of methadone treatment.

How It Works

Methadone affects both the brain and the spinal cord, subsequently blocking the “high” that is caused by other opioids such as codeine, fentanyl, morphine and heroin. Methadone also has the ability to stop feelings of cravings, and helps to halt withdrawal symptoms from occurring.

When taken once a day, individuals can ease their withdrawal symptoms from other drugs for approximately 24-36 hours. It is important to note that while methadone has the ability to curb the urge for other opioid substances, it is not able to fight withdrawal symptoms of other substances such as alcohol, cocaine and marijuana.

By halting the changing opioid levels in the blood stream, individuals can avoid all of the physical and psychological highs and lows attributed to withdrawal. As a result, it becomes easier for people to avoid relapsing, and it also helps to avoid common effects of withdrawal such as anxiety, mood swings and depression.

How Long Does It Last?

Those who are wondering how does methadone treatment work should make note that the longer an individual is on this treatment, the better the results. For some individuals, their dependency may not require methadone doses for more than a few months, while others may take methadone every day for the next several years, or even for the rest of their lives.

The seriousness of the addiction, and the individual’s likelihood of relapse will help to determine how long they’ll need to be treated.

Side Effects of Methadone Use

Some of the milder effects of methadone use can include drowsiness, constipation, dizziness and nausea. More severe side effects of methadone use can include impaired balance and coordination, poor focus and dependency.

Methadone remains in the body for long periods of time, which is why it is important that it is regulated by an addiction specialist. Results may not kick in for a few days after the first use, so users should be patient and stick to the prescription given.

Results

The success rates of methadone usages are usually higher, the longer that a person takes part in the treatment. This is because it can take a long time for the chemistry of the brain to change, and giving the methadone more time to reverse the effects of addiction results in a better chance of success.

Shorter programs make it more difficult to correct the changes, and relapse is common if the detox treatment hasn’t been applied for a long enough time.

Methadone is one of the many forms of treatment that can help to alleviate the symptoms associated with opioid addictions. Other forms of treatment that may be used in conjunction with methadone include group counseling, 12-step programs and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Consider the information provided to better understand how methadone treatment works.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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What Is The Drug Oxycontin Used For https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/drug-oxycontin-used/ https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/drug-oxycontin-used/#respond Fri, 26 Jan 2018 08:25:16 +0000 https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/?p=835 What is the drug OxyContin used for? This is a common question. OxyContin, which is more commonly referred to as oxycodone, is a type of opioid narcotic medication that is used for controlling pain. When considering the question, “What is the drug OxyContin used for,” it is important to note that oxycodone is an extremely […]

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What is the drug OxyContin used for? This is a common question. OxyContin, which is more commonly referred to as oxycodone, is a type of opioid narcotic medication that is used for controlling pain. When considering the question, “What is the drug OxyContin used for,” it is important to note that oxycodone is an extremely addictive drug. In fact, the way that it works puts you and anyone who takes it at a serious risk of developing an addiction.

The way that OxyContin works will put you at risk of developing an addiction. The main ingredient of oxycodone is extremely similar to the way heroin works by interacting with the various opiate receptors in your central nervous system. In addition to knowing what is the drug OxyContin used for, you also need to know how to identify and even how to treat, issues related to this substance. Learn more about the drug, what is the drug OxyContin used for, and treatment options for addiction here.

Uses of OxyContin

To answer the question, what is the drug OxyContin used for, you have to consider why doctors prescribe it to begin with. OxyContin is a type of prescription drug that is used for the treatment of moderate to severe pain. The amount of oxycodone that is in OxyContin will alter the way that your brain is able to perceive pain, and can even help to ease any pain you may feel after going through surgery, due to an illness or even an injury. However, the use of OxyContin may also result in intense feelings of euphoria, or well-being, which is why it is so common for this substance to be abused.

The Uses and Side Effects Caused by OxyContin

Using Oxycontin will come with certain risks. This is true for any prescription drugs. While some of the side effects resulting from the use of this drug can be bothersome, they aren’t usually dangerous. However, there are other side effects, which aren’t as common, such as seizures, abnormal heart rhythms and slowed breathing that may put you at a risk of suffering brain damage, a coma or even death. While learning what is the drug OxyContin used for, it is also important to understand that it also presents risks when taken.

The Addiction Risk Related to OxyContin

By now, you understand what is the drug OxyContin used for; however, some people who begin taking it to help manage their pain, have a hard time stopping it. In fact, their bodies grow dependent on it, which is when addiction may occur. If this happens, it is never a good idea to try and stop taking it “cold turkey,” as this can result in severe and in extreme cases, life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. A better option is to work with an addiction facility where you can go through the withdraw process and cease use of the substance safely.

As you can see, the question what is the drug OxyContin used for is not the only question you need to focus on. You also need to learn about the devastating effects this drug can have if you become addicted.

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What is Oxy Drug Used For? https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/what-is-oxy-drug-used-for/ https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/what-is-oxy-drug-used-for/#respond Thu, 25 Jan 2018 08:25:04 +0000 https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/?p=833 What is oxy drug used for? This is a common question, especially for those who may be considering going into rehab. The fact is, getting to know more about it can be beneficial and help you know what to expect. Learn more about what is oxy drug used for here. Use of Oxy Drug The […]

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What is oxy drug used for? This is a common question, especially for those who may be considering going into rehab. The fact is, getting to know more about it can be beneficial and help you know what to expect.

Learn more about what is oxy drug used for here.

Use of Oxy Drug

The medication is used to help relieve cases of moderate to severe pain. Oxycodone belongs to the class of drugs that is called opioid analgesics. When taken, it will affect the brain, changing how your body not only feels but also responds to pain.

Unfortunately, if you take oxy drugs for a long period of time, it can result in withdrawal reactions when you stop taking it. In these cases, you may no longer wonder what is oxy drug used for, but also what to expect if you are going through a withdrawal. Some of the most common symptoms of this include muscle aches, restlessness, sweating, watering eyes, nausea and a runny nose. If you want to prevent these issues, then you may have to work with your doctor to gradually reduce the amount you are taking, until you are eventually no longer dependent on it.

The Potential of Addiction with Oxy Drugs

In the beginning you may only wonder what is oxy drug used for; however, as time passes, and you learn how it makes you feel, and your body becomes dependent on it, you may develop an addiction. If you have some type of underlying substance use disorder, then the risk of becoming addicted is actually much higher. To reduce the possibility of addiction, you need to make sure you only take it as prescribed by your doctor.

Are You Addicted?

When it comes to figuring out what is oxy drug used for, you will discover it can be used to treat all types of pain. In most cases, it is only given by doctors for severe cases, such as cancer, and other similar debilitating issues. However, there are many people who become reliant on this drug after taking it for a long period of time to function on a day to day basis. When this happens, the likelihood of addiction grows substantially.

If you have discovered what is oxy drug used for, and succumb to it’s addictive nature, then you can’t sit idly by hoping the issue will pass. It is necessary for you to take action and ensure that you receive the treatment necessary to overcome the addiction you are facing. There are addiction rehabilitation facilities that can help you manage the withdraw symptoms and train your body to overcome the craving it has for the drug.

The Bottom Line

Now you understand what is oxy drug used for; however, it doesn’t mean you should attempt to stop taking it alone. You either need the help of a doctor, or rehab facility to ensure you don’t experience any negative side effects or consequences that may go along with stopping it “cold turkey.”

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President Trump Fails to Hit the Mark with Opioid Problem Plan https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/president-trump-fails-hit-mark-opioid-problem-plan/ https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/president-trump-fails-hit-mark-opioid-problem-plan/#respond Sun, 18 Jun 2017 12:04:32 +0000 https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/?p=760 President Trump Fails to Hit the Mark with Opioid Problem Plan, Health Authorities Say With the White House’s plan to deal with opioid problem, the authorities have countered the Trump administration’s justice and health policies, according to advocates and politicians. On Wednesday, the Trump administration declared its launch for a commission that aims to study […]

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President Trump Fails to Hit the Mark with Opioid Problem Plan, Health Authorities Say

With the White House’s plan to deal with opioid problem, the authorities have countered the Trump administration’s justice and health policies, according to advocates and politicians.

On Wednesday, the Trump administration declared its launch for a commission that aims to study and deal with the crisis. According to statistics, about 91 people in the United States die every day due to opioid overdose. This report was brought out by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention or CDC.

Donald Trump said that opioid addiction or abuse has truly become a very crippling issue in all parts of the United States of America. He added that this crisis is less talked about compared to the extremeness and severity people are witnessing nowadays.

These “almost untalked about” problems such as addiction to prescription drugs like opioid and heroin has been in the forefront of the federal health agency concerns for years now. In line with this reality, the Congress has also taken the liberty to commit itself in giving response to the said crisis while adopting certain types of federal policies that reflect legislation states all throughout the political arena. Unfortunately, the centerpiece plan of Donald Trump to convene a commission that promotes and develops recommendations is perceived by many people in the country as somewhat redundant.

It was in November 2016 when the surgeon general published and presented a nonpartisan report that outlines solutions as well as recommendations.

According to Daniel Raymond, the policy director of a drug policy advocacy group called Harm Reduction Coalition, he is not aware of the fact that there are many parties who are now enthusiastic about the creation and introduction of commission report. This is because the commission report itself does not seem to presuppose that Harm Reduction Coalition does not actually know what needs to be realized.

As a matter of fact, Raymond said that existing justice and health policies of the White House contradict or negate the pre-existing policy recommendations. On account to this, the advocates said that progress is practically threatened by the White House specifically its efforts to revoke or annul the Act on Affordable Healthcare which is otherwise known as Obamacare. Progress is also threatened by the stance of the justice department toward drug policy.

Raymond also stressed out that he is not aware of how a person is capable of turning a circle into a square by just merely saying, “we care much about drug addiction like opioid crisis” then gets in the way to cut budgets, terminates access to healthcare and beefs up strategies of the law enforcement instead of providing support and services.

There’s one big question which was also raised by Raymond in consonance to the commission report and this questions is stressed thus: Will the commission report be disconnected from the other policies of Trump administration? Another relevant question that was being raised is: Is the commission report going to help align and put agencies in order especially in the making of appropriate response to the crisis in question?

The White House has budget proposals for 2016 and 2017 and the fund has been cut and distributed to several key agencies that aim to fight off and combat opioid crisis. These agencies include the National Institutes of Health for its ongoing researches on solutions for opioid crisis, Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration or SAMSHA for its aim to award grants to help communities deal with the crisis and the CDC which is the agency that has the responsibility of tracking data on opioid use and addiction.

Jeff Sessions, an attorney general and the country’s chief law enforcement offices has also gotten himself in the way to advocate for drug policies that also echoes the war on drugs campaign albeit the fact that this campaign or strategy was discredited by science and was tagged as something which is counterproductive by the administration of former US president Barrack Obama.

Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a democrat from the state of New Hampshire said that a massive gulf or gap has been created between President Trump and the policies which have been proposed by the administration during the first two months of office of the president.

Another US senator by the name of Patty Murray, also a democrat from the state of Washington DC said that he is willing to take the proposed efforts of the president on opioid more seriously if Trump had not spent his last two months derailing the historic procedures on substance abuse treatment via the Affordable Care Act. He would also take the proposed efforts in a kore serious manner if the president didn’t cut the budget by 20 percent which is deemed to be very essential in the fight against the opioid epidemic in the United States.

While these concerns seemed to be very prevalent, US advocates said that they were at least somewhat encouraged that the White House administration pushed to signal opioid crisis as one of the major concerns. If it wasn’t then the administration may not have gotten in the way to contact trusted officials to create a commission report on opioid crisis in the United States of America.

On the lighter side, Chris Christie was appointed and he was warmly welcomed because this governor from New Jersey has long been in the frontlines and fighting off drug addiction crisis. His appointment was timely while the White House is currently teeming with people who don’t have any experience in public governance.

 

 

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Drug Addiction Problem in the US https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/drug-addiction-usa/ https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/drug-addiction-usa/#respond Thu, 15 Jun 2017 04:43:41 +0000 https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/?p=754 Drug addiction / abuse is considered as one of the most usual public health concerns in the US. Based on records, more than twenty million Americans are known as former and current drug abusers. Drug addiction is also the most common reasons why many citizens are involved vehicular accidents, incarcerations, employment problems and financial burdens. The […]

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Drug addiction / abuse is considered as one of the most usual public health concerns in the US. Based on records, more than twenty million Americans are known as former and current drug abusers. Drug addiction is also the most common reasons why many citizens are involved vehicular accidents, incarcerations, employment problems and financial burdens.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse or NIDA has declared that over eighteen billion dollars is wasted annually due to the effects of poor health and productivity and drug addiction plays a crucial role in this scenario. What is even worse is that drug addiction is also the most common causes of social problems which include domestic violence, family breakdown, vehicular accidents, child abuse, loss of employment, education problem, etc.

Currently, the United States is doing ways to fight off drug addiction and it is obvious to note that the country has many hindrances to consider to winning the battle against drug addiction. Such hurdles or hindrances usually include access to appropriate care, socio-economic inequality, racial inequality and congested prisons with high levels of drug use. In the past twenty-five years, the rates of drug in the US remained stable despite the intensifying effort of the US authorities to eradicate drug trafficking and use. In the country, carrying prohibited drugs (for sale or personal use) is considered as a federal crime and punishment can be extremely severe.

Facts and Figures on Drug Abuse in the US

Each year, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health is conducted in the US to determine the existing trend of drug use. Aside from drugs, this survey also assesses tobacco and alcohol dependence of Americans older than twelve years. The authority that conducts this annual survey is known as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration or SAMSHA and more than 67,000 Americans are surveyed and assessed. The survey has the following facts and figures for the year 2010:

  • 6 million Americans over 12 years old were previous or current drug users.
  • 6 Americans over 18 years old are users of illicit drugs.
  • 4 million Americans are users of Marijuana which is considered as the most commonly used prohibited drug.
  • 5 million Americans are cocaine users.
  • 2 million Americans are users of hallucinogen drugs with 700,000 of which are users of ecstasy.
  • In 2010, 7 million people in the country made use of prescription drugs which weren’t used for medical purposes.
  • A decrease in the number of methamphetamine use was reported in the past month. The reported number was 353,000.
  • 5 percent of all drug users in the country are unemployed, 8.4 percent are full time employees or workers and 11.2 percent are part time workers. This simply shows that 65.5 percent of the country’s total drug users are employed and working at some capacity.
  • 5 million people in the country are known to be driving cars and other types of vehicles even when they are under the influence of drugs.

SAMSHA said that about 8.9 million Americans are suffering from co-occurring mental health issue as well as substance abuse issue. Of this figure, 55 percent of which has been reported to not getting any proper treatment so as to cure the condition.

Legal Drugs or Prescription Drugs

Drugs can be legally used if they are prescribed by a licensed doctor and to be used for medical purposes. However, many Americans become addicted to prescription drugs simply because they are not used to treat certain illnesses. Thus, the Federal Government has announced that Prescription drug abuse has literally become one of the country’s menacing problems. According to statistics, about 20 percent of the country’s population is using prescription drugs for non-medical purposes.

Prescription opiates (vicodin and oxycodone) happens to be the most common type of abused prescription drugs in the country. In 2010, vicodin was prescribed in the US 130 million times. Basically, this kind of drug is used to treat extreme pain. On the other hand, the combination of hydrocodone and acetaminophen is commonly used as analgesic or pain reliever but it can be very addicting as well.

Another type of addicting prescription drug is oxycodone. It is also used as a form of analgesic or pain reliever. This drug also lives in the country by the name of coalminers’ cocaine or hillbilly heroin because of its massive use in the country’s poor regions. It is also taken a substitute for heroin. Many young and first time users believe that oxycodone is also much safer than heroin. When taken without proper supervision, this drug can be very addictive and dangerous.

Treatment Problems and Incarceration

In the US, there is a problem with treatment gaps as far as treating drug addiction is concerned. This means that people who are struggling with addiction find it hard to get access to treatment services and facilities and this proves to be true when they don’t have private health insurance. With this in mind, sort-term or limited treatments are obvious. Relapse is also possible.

Due to the untreated problem on drug addiction, over two million people in the country are incarcerated with more than 25 percent of which is due to drug offenses. Based on surveys, people who were incarcerated due to drug offenses came from communities that struggle with the lack of services that aim to treat drug abuse or addiction. This has brought out the strategy which was known as the War on Drugs. This particular strategy was introduced on the United States in the 1970s to help in the reduction of drug abuse cases and other forms of drug-related crimes.

Prior to the introduction of this strategy, certain regions in the country have successfully reduced problems on drug trafficking. Unfortunately, this has also become the reason why the country’s incarceration rates of drug abusers as a way to deal with and overcome substance abuse issues. In short, this strategy has not been effective enough to successfully reduce drug addiction rates in the country. The US has actually seen the greatest increase in number of people who were arrested due to drug offenses. It has actually tripled in the last 25 years.

 

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Marijuana Addiction: Know These Things before Seeking Treatment https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/marijuana-addiction-know-these-things-before-seeking-treatment/ https://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/marijuana-addiction-know-these-things-before-seeking-treatment/#respond Tue, 01 Nov 2016 14:55:41 +0000 http://addictionrehabthousandislands.ca/?p=223 Marijuana Addiction Marijuana addiction continues to plague Canada as one of the top substances that are most prone to use and abuse. The 2017 legalization of marijuana in the country is raising even more opposing views regarding this sensitive issue. There are several physiological and psychological aftermaths that are connected to the over-consumption of and […]

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Marijuana Addiction

Marijuana addiction continues to plague Canada as one of the top substances that are most prone to use and abuse. The 2017 legalization of marijuana in the country is raising even more opposing views regarding this sensitive issue. There are several physiological and psychological aftermaths that are connected to the over-consumption of and addiction to the substance. It is essential to know the signs of addiction to determine if you or a loved one is in dire need of intervention or treatment right away.

 

Marijuana Effects and Related Problems

The effects of marijuana addiction are encompassing and far-reaching. There are physical impacts to the person such as violent behaviours, paranoia, and hallucination. Marijuana or cannabis when unregulated and abused could pose a threat and serious problem not just to the individuals who are addicted to the substance but their family and the society in general. Addiction to marijuana leads to health-related problems, social, mental, and psychological repercussions.

 

Individual Treatment for Marijuana Addiction

Different patients require a unique and personalized treatment program for their substance abuse problem. These methods cater to the different unique needs and responses of the individual toward the treatment program. The customised treatment program is mainly based on the evaluation or initial assessment of the patient. The basic guidelines for administering and creating this program are the stage of the individual’s addiction and the diagnosis of the substance addict when he first submits to treatment.

 

The treatment program is formulated and implemented according to the evaluation of the patient and would generally include the following:

 

  • Recreation programs
  • Music and art therapy
  • Counseling (Individual, family, and groups)
  • Holistic treatment approaches (meditation and yoga therapy)
  • Life management
  • Personal training, physical fitness, and workout routine
  • Dietary and nutritional counseling
  • Aftercare solutions

 

What to Look for in a Rehab Facility

There are numerous rehabilitation centres and facilities in Canada. There are private and government-funded rehab facilities where you can get the treatment you need or if a loved one requires intervention and treatment right away. Private and government-funded rehabs have different features that would spell a difference between the two including the length of admission and the cost of the treatment program in general. However, there are certain features that a high-quality rehab should possess such as the team of professionals that are working for the overall operations of the facility.

Look for a rehab centre with licensed, trained, and professional addiction therapists, counsellors, addiction specialists, and medical practitioners. You need a facility with clean and well-maintained amenities that are conducive to treatment and recovery. The right facility has the best treatment programs and operations from admission to aftercare. These programs must be customized according to the unique needs of the patients.

Marijuana addiction destroys lives and Canadians are no strangers to the tremendous effects of cannabis or marijuana to individuals and societies. Check out the most effective and highly approved treatment programs for marijuana addiction. Make sure you choose the right rehabilitation facility today.

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