Managing The Stress of Selling Your Home

Selling your home can be a headache. Even if you have sold multiple homes in the past, the act of getting everything together, cleaning, organizing, and finding an agent can put you on the fast track to loads of stress. Fortunately there are steps you can take to minimize stress during the home selling process.

Managing Stress During the Home Selling Process

Selling a home can give you an unmanageable migraine. The Huffington Post says that people often experience higher stress levels when going through the various stages of the home selling process. Studies show that the inspection process seems to be the most nerve-wracking experience for almost every seller.

Showing their home is not fun for sellers either, and then there is the appraisal process which can be a stomach churning experience. So, how do you stay calm and keep your stress levels manageable without running for the medicine cabinet and minimize the adverse effects that can be associated with selling your home?

Here are the top five tips we’ve found that should keep you sane during the sale of your home:

1. Preparation is key

No matter whether you are packing up the house, cleaning out the closets, or trying to find out how much your home is worth, planning is the best thing you can do to stay ahead of surprises and minimize your stress level. If you are a first time seller, then knowing what to expect ahead of time is the best way to combat the fear of the unknown.

Many sellers go into the property transfer process with blinders on not taking the time to research what to expect or how to find the most reputable appraiser. By learning about the processes that go along with selling a home, you can minimize anxiety because you know what to expect even if you do not know the ins and outs.

2. Get rid of clutter

You hear this statement all the time, but do how do you organize a whole home clearing without pulling your hair out? With the majority of home buyers searching online, the pictures of your home are critical to the sale.  Organize your clean out by room, function, or floor level depending on the time you set aside for cleaning. For instance, if you only have a few hours, then maybe it is best to tackle the bedroom closets or the mudroom first.

If you have a large block of time that you can set aside for sorting through your home, then you can tackle the attic, basement, or an entire room. To get even more work done in a short time, ask family and friends to help out. Forbes says to make three piles, sell, trash, and donate. If you plan to get rid of many extras, then you can order a dumpster, have a yard sale, or ask the thrift store to pick up your donations.

3. Take time for reflection and quiet time

One way to help yourself in the heat of the moment is to have a go-to meditation method or breathing exercise. You can do a grounding technique where you look for five things that you can touch, four things you can see, and so forth. Another way to get a hold of yourself when things get out of control is to breathe in and out slowly counting to five each way.

Practice stress relieving exercises before the home selling process begins to get the most benefits. By practicing stress-reducing techniques when you do not need them, you can train your brain to go to the technique quickly in the heat of the moment. When the selling process becomes overwhelming, you know what to do to get immediate relief from the strain.

Simple stress reducers

Fox News says several things can minimize your stress levels. Some of the most helpful tips include:

  • Think about a “happy place”
  • Practice accepting things you cannot change
  • Eat something healthy
  • Go for a walk
  • Take a break from electronics or social media
  • Limit email checks to once or twice a day
  • Start taking vitamins
  • Work out
  • Take a nap
  • Light an aromatherapy candle
  • Take a hot shower
  • Organize something
  • Check off something on your to-do list to feel like you are making progress

4. Plan a Vacation During the Week of Showing

If you are the person that freaks out at every little change, mistake, or delay, then perhaps it is a better idea to remove yourself from the situation. For instance, the week of the appraisal, you can book a spa appointment and let your agent meet with the home analyst.

When the home is ready to show to, and you have the date for the open house, you should consider taking a mini-vacation when the home viewing is on the weekend. If you are showing your house during the summer, try to combine your vacation with the same week the real estate agent is showing your property to get your mind off of everything. Entrepreneur says that you can keep your house spiffier if you get out of the way when you are ready to show the home because there is nothing to clean up.

5. Delegate, Delegate, Delegate

Whether you are getting the home ready for the inspection, need help cleaning out the basement, or you have a ton of phone calls to make, spread the work out. Ask your spouse to help make the phone calls, split up chores between each member of the family. Call your in favors or throw a moving party.

You can also hire help when you cannot do the lifting or moving. Plan ahead to make sure you have plenty of extra hands when you are on a tight deadline to make the process a little easier. If you book a facial or a massage immediately after the stressful event, then you know you have something to look forward to when you are going through the roughest parts of selling your home.

When you feel like the walls are closing in and you need a distraction, breathing through the moment is a fantastic way to get over hard times and, sometimes it’s important to just get out of the situation and give yourself a moment to reset. Sometimes, venting to someone is a great way to relieve stress too.

Selling your home is going to come with surprises, but you can control how you deal with them.


Luxury Rehab

Is a Luxury Rehab Right For Me?

Dealing with addiction is hard enough, but it is also hard to make the decision to go to a rehab facility and to decide which rehab to attend. There are a lot of things to look into when researching the perfect rehab facility for you, including types of rehab facilities, the programs offered, the cost associated with the programs, and more. In this article, we will be discussing the option of luxury rehab, what luxury rehabs offer, and the average cost to attend one.

What is Luxury Rehab?

Luxury rehabs provide the best treatment and comfort for those who are suffering from addictions, such as drug abuse and alcohol abuse, or mental illnesses. These rehabilitation centers are resort-style and offer a variety of therapy options to patients who need a safe place to heal. Most luxury rehab facilities offer traditional, evidence-based therapies like psychotherapy. There are also options for more inventive therapy programs such as adventure therapy.

Because most facilities house celebrities and high-profile professionals who are seeking treatment, discretion is enforced. Before employees can start employment, most centers require them to sign a nondisclosure agreement. The average number of patients that a standard treatment facility accepts is a lot higher than the amount of people luxury treatment centers allow. Luxury rehabs are preferred by wealthy people who want privacy and world-class care. These facilities are perfect for anyone who can commit to full recovery and still enjoy intimate, top-notch comfort.

Luxury Rehab

What is the Average Cost of Luxury Rehab?

Luxury rehabs are the most luxurious and expensive drug treatment centers worldwide. They offer unparalleled amenities, exclusiveness, and state-of-the-art treatments. A month at a luxury rehab costs between $30,000 and $100,000 while a month at a standard facility costs between $5,000 and $20,000 which can be partially covered by sliding scales or public assistance. Some luxury rehab costs may be covered by specific health insurance plans, but they will not usually cover the entire stay. The actual cost of treatment for a patient will vary depending on what they need and the options that they choose to have during recovery.

Luxury Rehab

Why is Luxury Rehab More Costly?

You might notice that luxury rehab is considered expensive for average Americans. This is due to the private rooms, luxurious locations, and activities available such as horseback riding. The amenities offered, like massage therapy and meal services, are of a higher quality than what you would receive at a traditional rehab facility. It is designed to feel more like a spa or vacation than a hospital stay. 

When treating patients, many luxury rehabs opt for a holistic approach which is recommended by the top medical professionals in the field. This approach allows patients to go into recovery while keeping their privacy and comfort in mind. Luxury rehab is sought after because of its distinctive and private healing process. Although the price of luxury rehab is more expensive than a regular program, it’s still a good deal. The level of care provided is unmatched.

Luxury Rehab

Should I Choose a Luxury Rehab Facility?

Luxury rehab is the best choice if you want to feel relaxed and reassured, while still focusing on getting sober and staying sober. Luxurious rehab facilities make sure that their guests feel supported throughout the healing process, and are much more well-adjusted at the end of their stay. Every patient is given the best care and attention by the staff. There are still options if luxury rehab costs seem daunting, but you can offset the total cost of treatment by purchasing health insurance or alternatives.

Conclusion

Don’t let rehab costs stop you from getting rid of addictions and leading a more fulfilling life. There are many options out there to help you receive treatment. Treatment providers are available to help you or your loved ones heal luxury and get the quality care that is deserved. Talk to a treatment provider now and find out what might be best for you or your loved ones.


Consequences of Drug Abuse

What are the Consequences of Drug Abuse?

Drug addiction is a serious disease, and the long-term consequences of drug abuse aren’t just limited to chronic use. An occasional dose can impact an individual’s brain chemistry so significantly that it can affect one’s sense of reality, cause short-term memory loss, intense cravings for certain drugs, hallucinations, disorientated thinking, and even compulsive drug seeking behavior. When you don’t get help, your problem quickly gets out of hand. It is very important to search for a drug addiction recovery center or a luxury drug rehab to get you or a loved one the help that is needed to overcome a drug addiction.

Mental & Psychological Consequences

Drug abuse manifests many different mental consequences. In most cases, drug addiction leads to severe depression and emotional instability. People become withdrawn and lose interest in family and friends. They experience paranoia and believe that everyone is after them. These individuals frequently feel they are at a high risk of relapse and suffer from acute anxiety and depression.

Depression & Anxiety

Psychological consequences include depression and anxiety. Many addicts suffer from severe depression due to their substance use disorder. This can eventually lead to psychological problems like anxiety and panic attacks. Those who experience this level of depression are more likely to commit suicide. Some addicts experience guilt, thinking that they are responsible for their addiction. This leads to a second depression and can lead to substance use disorder again.

Psychosis

Psychosis is defined as “a condition in which people see and feel things that cannot normally be thought or reason.” It is a psychological disorder characterized by hallucinations and delusions. Although not all who use drugs develop paranoia and depression, a significant number do. There is no definitive way to diagnose the beginning of a psychosis condition. Some research suggests that people who abuse prescription medications may experience early onset of psychosis and depression. It is important to note that some types of drug abuse can lead to depression and psychosis if the medication used to treat those symptoms is the addictive agent.

Psychosis can be divided into two categories – organic and non-organic. Organic disorders are those that are biologically based, meaning that the body has created the problem and are generally more serious than those caused by other substances. Non-organic disorders are those that are the result of a psychological disorder that does not have a direct biological cause. Drug addiction, prescription drugs, and certain other psychologically related illnesses can result in either type of illness.

Health Consequences & Subtle Physical Consequences

Another one of the substance consequences of addiction is the health consequences. Many addicts suffer serious health problems because of their drug addictions. Cancer, organ failure, bipolar disorders, diabetes, and other physical conditions can develop as a result of abuse. Drug detoxification is often required for these types of situations. Abstinence is required during treatment so that patients do not begin to abuse again after leaving treatment. Drug abuse negatively affects the liver, cardiovascular system, and central nervous system, and can lead to different kinds of cancers. The likelihood of health problems has only increased due to the opioid epidemic that has happened over the years.

Insomnia, Weight Loss, & Increased Risk of Infections

Some of these more subtle physical consequences of drug abuse are insomnia, weight loss, lack of appetite, vomiting, loss of interest in sex, and increased risk of infections. Drug users can contract various types of infections, such as HIV, hepatitis B and associated diseases, and hepatitis C, which are treatable. In fact, it is not uncommon for drug abusers to form cystic acne, which is similar to a severe case of acne vulgaris. Acne cysts often break out on the face, neck, shoulders and back. This condition, however, is rarely deadly.

Social Consequences

Drug addiction presents many social consequences. These social consequences are usually harder to deal with and are harder to observe because they are often subtle. Social consequences of drug abuse range from having to drop out of school to getting arrested or going to jail. Each of these consequences of drug abuse is based on the individual and their relationship to drugs.

Death & Effects of Death on Loved Ones

Drug abuse has been responsible for the death of many loved ones, and drug abuse can directly cause the loss of a loved one. Addiction is not only dangerous to the user, but to the user’s family as well. The victim’s family has to suffer the effects of their loved one’s addiction, as well as the victim’s addiction. Drug rehabilitation centers have experts who have experience dealing with these issues, so if your loved one is going through this process, it is important that you do not forget about the consequences.

Getting Arrested & Effects of Arrest

An addict may get arrested for suspicion of drug addiction, possession of drugs, or selling drugs. This can make dealing with the consequences of drug addiction extremely difficult. The person may be sentenced to time in prison or may be put on probation. They may even lose their job or be fired from their job because of the charges against them. Getting arrested can also lead to a mental health crisis in which case it may be advisable to consult with a drug addiction professional immediately.

Jail Time

For drug offenses, the consequences of being arrested will always be some form of jail time. Those arrested for misdemeanor crimes may serve up to one year in jail time. Those charged with felony crimes could face jail time over four years or more. The court may impose a number of additional charges for the defendant in addition to jail time. As soon as the defendant appears in court, the court must set a date for a pretrial hearing, at which time all charges will be decided.

Conclusion

It is imperative that you seek professional help if you suspect your loved one is suffering from addiction. You will want to do a thorough examination of their medical history. You should ask for a current evaluation from a drug rehabilitation center or other facility. You should also ask your loved one to fill out a drug evaluation form that details the extent of their substance abuse. Once you have obtained all this information, you will then need to determine the type of treatment that will work best for them. Your doctor may recommend detoxification, which will help remove the drug from their body, while a more conventional program may require that they try to break their dependence on drugs without using illegal substances. Drug rehabs also offer inpatient and outpatient programs that can accommodate any addict with whatever is going on in their lives.


Opioid Epidemic

Will the Opioid Epidemic Ever End?

The opioid epidemic refers to the widespread overuse of opioid drugs, both from illicit sources and from legal prescription medicines. The epidemic started in the United States in the early 1990s and continued into the end of the decade. Over a period of time, the overdose rates of prescription opioid drugs increased dramatically, particularly in people who were already susceptible to pain due to advanced age or illness. Thus, by the mid-2000s there was a burgeoning opioid deficiency problem that was beginning to pose a significant health risk.

History of the Opioid Epidemic

The history of opioids makes clear that the pharmaceutical industry was almost completely responsible for their acceptance among Americans. This was an extremely profitable market, which involved doctors writing prescriptions in extremely large quantities. Doctors would write hundreds, if not thousands, of prescriptions for these powerful, short-term medications each month. After initially prescribing low doses to patients, the number of doctors prescribing high doses of these narcotics soon began to climb, creating a huge consumer base that was both unaware and eager for this new type of medication. By the end of the decade, more than 15 million people had prescriptions for at least one type of opioid drug, and the numbers have continued to grow throughout the history of opioids and the opioid epidemic.

Common Drugs in the Opioid Epidemic

Prescription opioid analgesics such as oxycodone and morphine are most often given to chronic patients with a debilitating or ongoing disease; they are also used by physically disabled, elderly, or mentally impaired individuals. Because these opioids can be highly addictive, their abuse requires a strong counter-narcotic such as OxyContin to produce the same effect. This creates a problem for physicians treating these patients; because they cannot prescribe doses of narcotics that will maintain their efficacy, doctors are forced to either severely ration these drugs and allow patients to become addicted, or prescribe higher doses and allow the abuse of lower doses to continue. As a result, the rising number of deaths among Americans suffering from prescription opioid addiction has begun to attract the attention of politicians, public health officials, law enforcement professionals, and others who have an interest in reducing the rising number of drug overdose deaths across the nation.

Effects of COVID-19 on the Opioid Epidemic

The sudden onslaught of this pandemic (COVID-19) provides an uncharacteristic haven for those already battling chronic pain to succumb to opiate addiction. It has pushed persons struggling with addiction to feel isolated and alone in their fight to recover, further diminishing their chances for recovery and compromising their physical and mental health even more. However, limiting access to effective pharmacological interventions can be counterproductive to a patient’s efforts to combat the opioid crisis. As more people succumb to overdose and death, the increasing demand for safe and effective medications will lead to more consolidation of these medications and an increase in public health care costs. In addition, the lack of access to healthcare providers and the ensuing rationing of scarce resources will undoubtedly strain public health resources even further.

The shortage of qualified clinicians available to address the opioid crisis will be a serious deterrent to many new patients suffering from this disease. Although there is no evidence of a connection between the pandemic and increased suicides among youth, more youth are at risk of succumbing to overdose and death if proper attention is not provided. By keeping current patients involved in the process of recovering and promoting recovery as a priority, the shortage of clinicians will not only create more counselors and therapists available to address the issue of addiction treatment in the future, but also provide an educational opportunity for new patients and their families to learn about the disease and how it can be overcome.

Conclusion

With over two million deaths related to prescription opioids in the US, it is clear that this problem is a growing crisis. From prescription strength pills to heroin and now the highly addictive pain relievers like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine, the number of deaths from these drugs is on the rise. States across the country are dealing with overloaded hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers overflowing, and individuals losing their jobs and having to fall back onto the streets. One in five people living in the United States will die from a drug overdose this year, and the numbers are steadily rising. This is leading many to wonder if the opioid epidemic will ever end. We need to take a good look at how we can expand treatment services, (including residential therapy, luxury rehab, and group therapy), increase public awareness of the dangers of using these drugs, educate doctors and pharmacists, enforce mandatory minimum jail sentences for non-medical use of narcotic opioids, and find ways to make the buying and selling of these dangerous narcotics easier than ever before


Rehab in Luxury

Rehab in Luxury

In today’s modern world, the word “luxury rehab” has come to be synonymous with a top-shelf resort. Many of us can not imagine luxury rehab facilities without picturing lush, plush rooms, beautiful flat-screen TVs all around, comfortable drapes and plush beds with high thread count pillows. The truth is that many luxury rehabs offer the very same services and amenities that are available in these well-publicized resorts, but the difference is the price. These facilities offer top-notch services at an affordable price tag. They provide their guests with individualized care based on their individual needs and wants. It is for this reason that many people have chosen to stay in a luxury rehab facility instead of staying in a more traditional or full-fledged hotel.

Luxury Rehabs Offer Personalized Treatment Programs

There are many advantages to going to a luxury rehab over a traditional treatment program for a number of reasons. One is that because these programs are more personalized, they tend to have lower levels of alcohol and drug abuse than many other treatment programs. It is believed that the personalization factor makes these programs more effective. Another advantage is that these treatment programs often cater to those who may be suffering from a chemical dependency. These individuals may have a difficult time coping with their addiction on a regular basis, and so it is very helpful if they receive individualized treatment that is geared to their specific needs.

Luxury Rehabs Also Offer Knowledgeable Staff & Useful Amenities

Luxury rehab centers are also better able to handle cases of addiction because their staff is generally much more knowledgeable about the dangers of addiction and can provide support during the recovery process. Luxury rehab centers may also have more amenities such as day care or swimming pools for their guests. It is important to remember however that just because a facility has amenities does not mean that they provide excellent treatment. If the treatment program offered by the center is substandard, it will make the recovery process that much harder. Therefore, it is extremely important to do all that one can to find the right treatment center, and to look beyond the luxury factors in order to find a reputable, effective treatment program.

Types of Treatments Offered in Luxury Rehab

The programs which are housed within luxury rehabs offer many of the same treatments that would be offered in inpatient rehab centers, such as: addiction recovery programs (including social work, communication therapy, life coaching, behavioral treatment, etc. ), medication intervention, lifestyle changes, nutritional support, spiritual support, exercise, and detoxification. Many luxury rehabs even have onsite gyms and other fitness facilities for the patients to use. All luxury rehabs provide personalized service that is focused on each patient’s needs and is tailored to the particular needs of the individual patient.

Discuss Treatment Options With Your Doctor

When comparing luxury rehabs it is important to remember that every program is different and what is best for one person may not be the best option for another. As such, it is essential that you discuss all treatment options with your chosen treatment center and/or doctor thoroughly before signing up for the program(s). Always remember that it is ultimately your choice to enter into any treatment program, however, remember that the most important thing to keep in mind when deciding to enter a luxury rehab is that it is ultimately your choice. No one else can tell you what is best for you, only you can.

Conclusion

Whether you are seeking inpatient treatment or outpatient services, be sure to do your research and consider all of the options available. Some facilities offer a number of complimentary activities and resources to help you along your road to recovery. While others offer aftercare programs and peer counseling services for those who have already completed their treatment. Luxury rehab treatment centers offer everything to help you reclaim your life and re-enter the world.


smart recovery

What should I do to Get Rid of Addictions?

What should I do to Get Rid of Addictions?

People suffering from addiction often wonder, “what should I do to get rid of my addiction?”  Although there are a few different options available, for most, a rehabilitation center that uses Smart Recovery is usually the best choice.  Drug rehab is the process of psychotherapy or medical treatment for addiction to psychoactive drugs including alcohol, prescription medicines, and street drugs like cocaine, crack, meth, heroin or methadone. Drug rehab centers offer different kinds of treatment including inpatient, day/night, residential, outpatient, short-stay rehab, long-term rehab, social work rehab, special needs rehab, marriage recovery program, group therapy and spiritual support. Each drug rehab center has its own set of procedures to provide effective treatment to drug addicts and it follows the recognized guidelines for the treatment. In addition, different methods are followed for different kinds of addiction.

Inpatient Rehab

During inpatient rehabilitation, the most common procedures followed include behavioral modification programs, group therapy, individual counseling and family therapy. Medication is also provided during inpatient rehabilitation in order to treat patients with different kinds of addictions. Substance abuse treatments include inpatient detoxification, residential treatment, outpatient treatment and short-stay residential rehab. Recovery programs include relapse prevention, cognitive behavior therapy, life skills and relapse recovery planning. These programs help in restoring the health and life of addicts and improve their coping skills for succeeding in life.

Outpatient Rehab

Out patient treatment programs offer a high degree of privacy and independence for those who are uncomfortable in a group environment. This type of program allows patients to explore their own issues without the supervision of a licensed therapist or medical practitioner. These services can also be delivered in a variety of settings including hospitals, residential treatment centers, halfway houses, outpatient treatment facilities, mental health facilities, schools, and addiction clinics. Many addiction support groups are now offering in patient recovery programs.

Addiction is a complex illness and those suffering its debilitating effects need help. They often go to great lengths to avoid contact with the substances of addiction, but without going through detoxification or treatment. Addicts have problems managing their cravings. They are often triggered by negative stimuli (such as stress, loss of a job, or a parent passing on) and are unable to resist their craving for that substance. When they try to stop, it becomes a struggle.

Smart Recovery

A good addiction recovery program addresses both the cravings and the behaviors that lead to addiction. SMART Recovery offers assistance to people seeking abstinence from alcohol and other substances of addiction. SMART Recovery is a non-profit organization that offers support to people seeking abstinence from addiction through a twelve-step program. SMART Recovery offers a variety of services, including medical consultation, social service referrals, legal counsel, and education and motivation.

A four-point program is designed to assist individuals in maintaining motivation during their recovery. These include the use of coping statements, creative activities, and activities that foster feelings of power and control. This four-step program offers tips and strategies for fighting cravings and maintaining motivation during sobriety. The SMART recovery program also offers resources that help those with addictions maintain abstinence.


Inpatient or Outpatient rehab?

Inpatient or Outpatient Rehab?

What is Best? Inpatient or Outpatient Rehab?


Within our nation, one in every thirteen people or only abuse liquor or drugs. That is about fourteen million people. The great deal of people who find themselves afflicted by alcohol misuse is shocking, to say too much to handle and the least.

From teens, professionals and habitual users who’re addicted, to drinking or drugs, no single group of Americans can claim immunity. The benefits of a properly implemented drug rehabilitation program works for all.

There’s literally no person who’s unaffected by drug addiction or alcohol abuse. Whether its a parent, spouse, child or friend, drug and alcohol abuse has touched us all.

It boils down to pinpointing the path,and becoming educated on options for inpatient drug and alcohol rehab. That might be every bit as tricky. In actuality, that is just the spot where nonprofit organizations and referral centers come in.

Inpatient Rehabilitation Centers are rehabs that you live in over a predetermined period of time with limited connection to the outside world.

Along with details via tens of tens of thousands of drug rehabs throughout the U.S, you will find an assortment of no or low-cost sources available to offer the strategies you need to start treatment.

The type of rehabilitation center and type of therapies they deliver are important. A simple web search should be able to find information on a treatment center near you that fits your individual needs to fight addiction.

Different recovery centers offer different types of treatment. While nearly all will provide inpatient treatment, many do not offer follow-up outpatient treatment. In addition, there are many newer recovery models that leverage relationships with animals including Equestrian Therapy for drug and alcohol abuse.

living drug free

Regardless of whether your condition requires inpatient rehab or outpatient rehab is strictly unique to your situation. Choosing among the many substance abuse rehabilitation centers located across the country and with diligence you should find the perfect drug or alcohol rehab that fits with your schedule while identifying and treating the underlying addiction.

Every family unit, every person is one of a kind and the patient support from the outside is important. A good drug treatment facility can leverage an outside support system with equestrian and other therapies to fight long term addiction.

Unfortunately, many patients will need to detox before entering inpatient or outpatient treatment. Detoxification is the starting point of the rehabilitation process and is the first step to living a healthy life.

Unfortunately, many people in need of help do not know where to go. They do not know the questions to ask. Truth is…a quick Google search for a drug and alcohol rehab does a great job of decimating that information for you.


A Deep Look Inside Opiate Addiction

A Look At Opiate Addiction

Opioid or opiate addiction has reached crisis levels in the United States. A common medication used to help alleviate pain is now changing into a go-to drug for an “easy high.” Sadly, using this potent substance can quickly lead to addiction.  The opiate crisis includes a variety of opium based narcotics including Heroin, Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, Codeine and others

The Statistics are Scary

According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, in 2015 there were 20,101 drug overdoses associated with prescription opiate based drugs and 12,990 deaths attributed to heroin overdoses, an illegal form of opiate drugs. We have continued to see overdoses from opiates surge. This accounts for more than 2/3 of all drug overdoses that occurred that year. The Institute also cites that emergency room visits for overdoses that did not result in death has grown by 70 percent over the last decade. These startling figures show the dangers of opiate addiction.

Still Increasing

2016 figures are even more startling according to a report made by CDC Wonder, a firm who tracks overdose death rates. The report stated, “Among the more than 64,000 drug overdose deaths estimated in 2016, the sharpest increase occurred among deaths related to fentanyl and fentanyl analogs (synthetic opioids) with over 20,000 overdose deaths.”

Options for Addiction

Thankfully, there is help available. Drug rehabilitation centers can save your life offering people facing the harsh reality of an opiate addiction a way to overcome this problem and learn to live life drug free.

What Are Opiates?

Opiates and Opioids

Examples of Opiates and Opioids

Opiates are drugs made from opium. Opium is a plant based substance that has been harvested for thousands of years. One of the beneficial qualities of opium is that it has the ability to mask pain sensors in the body by interacting with receptors in the brain. The opium floods the brain with “feel good” hormones which for many people also causes a state of euphoria.

Over time the feel good hormones take more opiates to trigger. So people begin to use more drugs to achieve the same high. This can progress over time until an eventual overdose or drug related death occurs.

Opiates are highly addictive. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) a person can become addicted mentally to an opiate based drug in as little as 10 days, and physically in as little as 21 days. This is why it is imperative that anyone who uses these types of medications for a medical condition do so under strict medical guidance.

What Types Of Drugs Are Considered Opiates?

Any type of medication that is based from the opium plant or a synthetic version of opium is considered an opiate. Here are some of the more popular names associated with opiates:

  • Morphine
  • Oxycodone
  • Oxycontin
  • Hydrocodone
  • Fentanyl
  • Codeine
  • Demerol
  • Percodan
  • Percocet
  • Dilaudid
  • Methadone

Opiate Addiction Causes Significant Health Problems

When you become addicted to an opiate based drug, you put your life at risk. The opiates in the drugs slow body functions to dangerously low levels. As a result, many people who use opiates also experience health issues:

  • Heart Attack. The opiates slow the heart rate to a point where it can no longer function properly. This can lead to heart failure or heart attack.
  • Loss of Lung Function. Lungs are also impacted by opiates. Your breathing can become so slow that your lungs will have to labor hard to make sure you intake enough oxygen. Too much opiates may cause your lungs to just stop working.
  • Severe Constipation. Your intestines are continually moving to process the food that you eat. This movement helps the body digest food and absorb nutrients. When this process is slowed by the opiates, you can become constipated. Overuse of opiates can lead to severe problems that will require surgery to correct.
  • Nausea. Because your digestive system is not working properly you can experience regular nausea. This is a very common issue with opiate abuse. Sadly this often leads to people not wanting to eat to avoid the problem which in turn creates more health problems.
  • Confusion and Mood Swings. Opiates directly affect your brain chemicals. Because of this you can experience confusion, mood swings, depression, and mania.

The good news is that once you have entered rehab you can overcome and correct many of these problems. One of the main issues addressed in rehabilitation centers is how to stay healthy after you have beaten an addiction.

Overcoming Your Addiction

When you are in the grasp of an addiction it may seem like there is no way to every break the hold the substance has on your life. The good news is that if you want to break the addiction you can. Wanting to overcome a problem is the first step to success.

Working closely with a quality rehabilitation center is your next step to overcoming your addiction. You will need to choose between inpatient and outpatient treatment. You will need to choose between inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation. During rehab you will learn about the physical and mental issues that have led to your addiction or are the result of your addiction and how to make the necessary changes to overcome these problems.

Your substance abuse counselor will work with you at every level of your recovery to help ensure that you take the steps necessary to leaving your addiction behind. Whether you are in a live in program or attend recovery on an outpatient basis, your counselor will be your guide throughout the entire recovery process.

You can stop using opiates, even if you still face issues with pain. There are many alternatives now available that are just as good or better at managing the pain without the awful effects of addiction.


Non-Drug Treatment for Pediatric Migraine

Non-Drug Treatment for Pediatric Migraine

The last thing any parent wants to do is give their kid a any type of drug. But in certain circumstances, such as a migraine, that cant be avoided.  It has been reported that for somewhere between 10-28% of kids under the age of 18, many feel they have no choice.

There Are Other Options

Truth be known, many pediatric specialists do recommend other treatments before prescribing medication.  An increasing number of non-drug therapies are available for pediatric migraine sufferers. As it is true of any r alternative medicine (CAM) treatment, the physician must be a part of the team making the decisions and oversee the unique care of the pediatric patient.

Non Drug Options for Migraines

One of the most common non-drug treatment options is temperature therapy. The application of a warm or cool compress eases pain for many. Apply the hot or cold pack to the forehead and back of neck.

Getting additional sleep can  sometimes ease the suffering of adults with migraines.  We have yet to see much additional sleep therapy studies that have been directly done on children yet.  The duration of children’s migraines is usually shorter than that of an adult. It may be beneficial to have the child take a nap taken in a dark, quiet, area can eliminate some migraines altogether.

Other Options

Scheduling can be a factor in reducing the frequency of pediatric migraines. Unlike adults, who experience stress in an acute, episodic manner, children usually experience a constant stress level, particularly during the school year. Establishing a regular routine, including time to relax and an age-appropriate sleep schedule, helps many adult that deal with migraines.

Learning to fully relax has proven beneficial.  Some preliminary studies have proven successful utilizing self-hypnosis and guided imagery, is becoming the treatment of choice for recurrent pediatric migraines. Studies on the subject show that over half of the pediatric patients who learn these relaxation techniques experience less frequent migraines, but with no reduction in pain intensity when they do have one.

There are many options for pediatric migraine therapy, do not be afraid to ask the doctor about drug alternatives.

 

 

 

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As a Migraine suffer if you have had the chance to obverse the previous Republican Presidential candidate Congresswoman Michele Bachmann at a sunny afternoon public event and watch her as she speaks what do you fellow Migraineurs notice when you watch the evening news later that day or happen to walk by a news stand with all those glossy photos of the photogenic Congresswoman the following day?

Could it be something odd?  Something strange, no there is nothing odd about the Congresswoman herself, back off you far-left-wingers, no place for harsh gotcha political tactics here readers, this is a health column—not a political column!   Having said that, we perused hundreds and hundreds of rally and event photos on Google and other databases with tens of hundreds of smiling Congresswoman Bachmann ALL sans Dark Eyeglasses or Tinted Eyeglasses of any type?

For a self proclaimed Migraineur that seemed odd! But not unless she simply chooses to risk a possible Migraine trigger for sake of having what many might think is a more marketable image.  These are choices Migraineurs are often forced to take whether we wish too or not every day.

Now for a woman who has gone on the public record in June regards to her Migraine disease:  “Let me be abundantly clear — my ability to function effectively has never been impeded by Migraines and will not affect my ability to serve as commander in chief,” Mrs. Bachmann, Republican of Minnesota, said in a statement. She described the headaches as “easily controlled with medication.” Which may be another reason she feels confident about taking a risk with photophobic triggers seeing as hers are “easily controlled with medication.”

Now we bring up former Presidential Candidate Michele Bachmann because she is one of the most photographed persons in the United States and if you take the time to peruse those countless Bachmann images you will notice one sunny day after another sunny day with thousands of Paparazzi snaps and professional photojournalists capturing the Minnesota Representative never wearing her Migraine preventing sunglasses, or tinted glasses Migraineurs so often don’t go home without!

Over the years this health advocate never goes anywhere without tinted eyewear so I thought it was interesting to see Ms. Buchmann forgoing most Migraine doctor’s advice to avail her possible campaign managers advices.   Do I know this for a fact?

No.  The purpose of using this public figure as an example was to draw attention to the fact for most Migraineurs are photosensitive and can benefit from the proper protective eyewear from a common Migraine trigger.  In no way do we think she is exaggerating her Migraines, just the opposite.

To that fact it appears to highlight how we Migraine sufferers have to take decisions as simple as what some might consider a fashion statement can affect our risk to future attacks.  We applaud all Migraineurs who give up a choice which might help them avoid a trigger to better interact at work or play.

If timing is everything in politics then how nice a major science backed study much stronger than the 1991 Photophobia Filter Study et al R.H.Taylor , F. R. C. S. & M.J. Mortimer, M.R.C.G.P. “The Use of Tinted Glasses in Childhood Migraine”  back when Congresswoman Bachmann made her Migraine disease decree a very hardy study in the prestigious Headache and Migraine disease medical publication called Cephalalgia Magazine came both occurred in June of 2011!

“fMRI Evidence that Precision Ophthalmic Tints Reduce Cortical Hyperactivation in Migraine” What is important for those who don’t realize just how hard it has been to get NIH or any other medical body to conduct Migraine disease or headache disorder research, but that is a whole other story and you can get started by reading up about Headache On the Hill to learn more about the inequity of medical studies.

So we are always grateful to see any, especially ones done by major institutions , and keep in mind studies based around high tech devices such as Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging or functional MRI (fMRI).  The advantages is they allow researchers to actually map the brain and brain function of vetted Migraineurs and you do not need thousands of patients such as a double blind study as it would be very redundant and a waste of very expensive resources as well as cutting into research time for other struggling diseases. We still hope to see more such studies on Migraines continue which is one of the reasons we are writing about it.