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Archive for the ‘Legal and Dangerous’ Category

Drug Abuse and the Elderly

You wouldn’t likely suspect your mother or grandmother of having a drug dependency, yet studies show that addiction among the elderly is climbing.

Older generations aren’t abusing illicit drugs like the young. Symptoms of anxiety and sleepless nights are being treated with prescriptions of Xanax, Valium and other benzodiazepines that are meant for short-term management of these conditions. Unfortunately, older patients are taking them daily whether they need them or not-much like pills they take for long-term disorders like high blood pressure-and the abuse is going largely unnoticed. Why?

Several reasons, actually. Doctors may be completely unaware or too busy to notice. Others find the task of confronting an elderly patient with questions that suggest she may be an addict embarrassing or distasteful. Still others may feel that since the person is old anyway, she should be left alone.

The main problem with elderly drug abuse is that they suffer from more psychological and physical issues than a younger person who uses prescription drugs other than for what they are intended. Depression is common among the elderly as they become more and more dependent on others. Whether they are abusing medications to alleviate uncomfortable emotional feelings or they have bad feelings because of the medications prescribed for other issues can only be determined by a professional.

The first step in getting treatment for elderly drug abusers is to be alert to signs and symptoms of the abuse. Family members especially need to be aware of what medications their parents or grandparents are on and monitor them carefully. It may become necessary for the family to intervene and for their loved one to seek inpatient care if the abuse has been long term.

The way back to recovery is a long road for the elderly. It will require the proper counseling, family support and time and patience. Loved ones need to be committed to helping her every step of the way and to proving long-term support and encouragement. There are many types of drug rehabilitation available today, and many programs that can truly work with the elderly. These would be centers that have Drs. And registered nurses on staff to help with any medical need that may arise during detox or any other time in the program. Contact a professional addiction counselor of advise on different methods of treatment and to find a program that fits the needs of your loved one.

Speak to a professional addiction counselor today; 1-877-744-3536

Or fill out the contact form below and a counselor will contact you.

Are You An Addict?

Sometimes it isn’t easy to see when we’re looking at ourselves. Denial is common among those who abuse drugs and alcohol and their friends and family may not want to see the problem either. If you think you may be developing a problem with drugs or alcohol, or if you know someone that may be, ask the following questions.

Do I use regularly? Or do I use more than other people?

Whether it’s several times a day or even just once daily, if you feel that you have to have this drug or drink on a regular basis, you may be dependent.

Can I stop using the drug on my own? Have I stopped using drugs or alcohol for extended periods of time in the past several months?

Failure to discontinue use on your own is a sign of trouble. Casual users can take it or leave it. Those who are addicted cannot stop using and using the drug occupies their thoughts almost constantly.

Do I spend money I don’t have on the drug?

If you’re behind on your rent and your bills are going to collection because you spend that money to obtain drugs or alcohol, you need help.

Am I engaging in behavior I never thought I would?

Addicts often steal, sell belongings and resort to degrading practices such as prostitution in order to purchase drugs.            

Do I feel anxious when my supply runs low?

Those who are dependent on drugs work hard to keep a constant supply available. Feelings of anxiety or panic and distress often occur when the user realizes that his supply is dwindling.

Do I resort to getting high every time I’m faced with a problem?

Self-medicating with drugs or alcohol at the slightest provocation may be a warning sign. Almost everyone at one time or another has “had a few too many” when something devastating has happened in their lives. But if you reach for drugs and alcohol every time a problem is the least bit distressing, it may be a sign of addiction.

Is all my time focused on getting and using drugs?

Typically a drug addict will spend most of his waking hours chasing down drugs so he can get high.

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, you may have a drug or alcohol dependency that needs to be treated. To find a quality drug and alcohol rehabilitation program contact a professional addiction counselor. Not all rehab programs are the same, there are many different methods of treatment and there is not one that is right for everyone.

To speak to a professional addiction counselor call 1-877-744-3536

Ritalin Nation: Use, Abuse and Treatment

Methylphenidate or Ritalin has grown in popularity over the past four decades. Not only is it the most prescribed drug for treating ADHD and ADD but it is also one of the most popularly abused drugs among adolescents and young adults. In fact it is estimated that 85-90% of prescriptions for Ritalin are for children and adolescents.

Adults suffering from obesity, depression, lethargy and narcolepsy are among the fewer recipients who receive Ritalin to treat their disorders, even though Ritalin is not indicated for such use.

The widespread availability of Ritalin, particularly in the United States adds to the potential for its abuse. Teenagers and college aged adults abuse the drug for its cocaine-like properties, often taking many more times the recommended dose to induce a euphoric affect. Crushing the tablets and snorting them or mixing the powder with other substances for IV use are the popular methods implemented by adults to abuse Ritalin.

In 2004 over 8000 cases of Ritalin overdose were reported in the United States. The majority of those were caused by intentional ingestion for the purpose of committing suicide or getting high. Clearly this drug is a threat to the well being of our youth because of its accessibility and acceptance as a viable tool in treating disorders that could be managed more safely using other methods.

Signs of abuse include: Decreased appetite, weight loss, irritability, and rapid speech, euphoria followed by bouts of depression, insomnia and paranoia.

Treatment for Ritalin abuse is similar for that of cocaine, methamphetamines and other stimulants. When looking for a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center for minors or adults you need to find a center that is not going to make the situation worse than it already is. Talk to a professional not just salespeople from rehab centers, learn the truth about  the centers from a natural third party that can help you find the help you need.

For help with ADD or ADHD medication abuse please call today we can help.

1-877-744-3536

Call a professional Addiction Rehabilitation Counselor today; 1-877-744-3536