1

Someone who takes responsibility for

someone else’s behavior. The enabler

shelters and protects, even denies the

dysfunction of the family

THE PROGRESSION OF ENABLING

1.PROTECTION

• THE ADDICT WILL USE THEIR DEFENSES SUCH AS RATIONALIZING, REPRESSION , PROJECTION……….AND MINIMIZING. THE ENABLER WILL BELIEVE HIM/HER, FEEL AS IF IT IS THE ENABLER’S FAULT, AND BE OVERLY RESPONSIBLE AND PROTECTIVE.

2. CONTROLLING

• THE ENABLER TAKES OVER ALL RESPONSIBILITY

• THE ENABLER FEELS INADEQUATE, GUILTY, ANXIOUS, ANGRY AND DEPRESSED

• THE ENABLER SINCERELY BELIEVES THE “IF ONLY’S”

• THE ENABLER “SOFTENS” THE CONSEQUENCES FOR THE ADDICT

WITHOUT REALIZING IT, WE CAN BE ENABLING OTHERS TO CONTINUE THEIR ADDICTION BECAUSE IT

IS, SOMETIMES, EASIER TO ALLOW IT TO CONTINUE THAN TO ADDRESS OUR OWN NEEDS

MAJOR ENABLING

APPROACHES

• AVOIDING AND SHIELDING • ATTEMPTING TO CONTROL • TAKING OVER

RESPONSIBLITIES • RATIONALIZING AND

ACCEPTING COOPERATING AND

COLLABORATIONG

PARENTS SUPPORT GROUP N.J. INC. NEWSLETTER P.O. BOX (221) W.O. B. WEST ORANGE, NJ. 973-399-9070 OR 800-561-4299 FAX 973-399-9074

VOLUME 21

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NYU study identifies spike in opiates in people

over 50

Recent years have seen a change in drug use patterns,

especially for older adults, with an increase in their

admission to substance abuse treatment and increased

injection drug use among those over the age of 50.

Yet, there has been little research regarding the

epidemiology, health status, and functional

impairments in the aging population of adults

accessing opioid treatment.

Of the few studies on this population to date, most

have been based off a limited dataset that only

accounts for treatment admissions, and therefore may

not fully capture the utilization of substance abuse

treatment over time. Furthermore, the treatment

episode dataset (TEDS), defines an older adult as aged

over 50 or 55, and may not fully demonstrate how the

population is aging.

Given the gaps in existing data, researchers affiliated

with New York University's Center for Drug Use and

HIV Research (CDUHR), and NYU’s School of

Medicine (NYUSoM) sought to elucidate age trends

for opioid treatment programs, with an emphasis on

older adults, in a new study published in the Journal

of Substance Use & Misuse. The investigation focuses

on such trends in New York City, as it has one of the

largest methadone treatment systems in the U.S. and

consistently provides access to treatment in the public

system.

The study, “Demographic Trends of Adults in New

York City Opioid Treatment Programs- An Aging

Population,” used data collected by New York State's

Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services

(OASAS). OASAS provides more detailed

information on the treatment population than what is

available nationally through the TEDS dataset,

allowing the NYU researchers to characterize basic

demographic, self-reported other substance use, and

self-reported physical impairments.

“Most notably,” says Benjamin Han, MD, MPH, an

instructor at NYUSoM and the study’s principle

investigator, “we found a pronounced age trend in

those utilizing opioid treatment programs from 1996

to 2012, with adults aged 50 and older becoming the

majority treatment population.”

Specifically, individuals aged 50-59 which made up

7.8% (N= 2,892) of the total patient population in

1996, accounted for 35.9% (N= 12,301) of the

population in 2012. Patients aged 60-69, also saw a

dramatic increase in numbers, originally constituting

1.5% of patients (N= 558) to 12.0% of patients (N=

4,099).

“These increases are especially striking, considering

there was about a 7.6% decrease in the total patient

population over that period, and suggests that we are

facing a never seen epidemic of older adults with

substance use disorders and increasing numbers of

older adults in substance abuse treatment.

Unfortunately, there is a lack of knowledge about the

burden of chronic diseases and geriatric conditions or

the cognitive and physical function of this growing

population” says Dr. Han.

During the same period, those ages 40 and below, who

in 1996 accounted for 56.2% of patients (N= 20,804),

were a fraction of that in 2012, responsible for 20.5%

of total patients (N= 7,035).

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Non-narcotic sown to rival opiates in relief

A new study has found that Naproxen, a pain reliever

that is available over-the-counter (OTC) and by

prescription (Rx), appears to provide as much relief

for lower back pain as a narcotic painkiller or a muscle

relaxant, Health Day reports.

The study compared the sole use of prescription-

strength Naproxen (Naprosyn) with the use of OTC

naproxen with the Rx painkiller oxycodone with

acetaminophen (Percocet), or the muscle relaxant

cyclobenzaprine (Amrix).

The data underscored that patients who took a

combination of the medications did not feel pain relief

any better than when they took naproxen alone,

according to study researchers.

“Acute low back pain is a frustrating condition,” said

lead researcher Dr. Benjamin Friedman, an associate

professor of emergency medicine at Montefiore

Medical Center and Albert Einstein College of

Medicine in New York City. “Adding the narcotics or

muscle relaxants to naproxen therapy didn’t help pain

or function any more than naproxen alone. Nearly 50

percent of patients were still suffering one week later

and nearly 25 percent of the patients were still

suffering three months later.”

Dr. Houman Danesh, director of integrative pain

management in the department of anaesthesiology-

pain at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York

City, said, “This is another study to add to the pile that

says narcotics are not appropriate to treat back pain.

Although fewer doctors are prescribing narcotic

painkillers for back pain, many still do.”

The report was published Oct. 20 in the Journal of the

American Medical Association.

Massachusetts insurer act on opiates

Health insurance companies in Massachusetts are

trying new ways to address the opioid crisis.

Some are imposing restrictions on prescriptions for

OxyContin, Vicodin and other painkillers, while

others are calling and visiting members being treated

for addiction.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts put limits on

opioid prescriptions three years ago. It is now

contacting members who are in detox programs to

help coordinate their care and prevent relapses, The

Boston Globe reports.

Staff members at Boston Medical Center Health Net

Plan call and visit members being treated for

addiction to help them locate and stick with

treatments.

Neighbourhood Health Plan has partnered with

Massachusetts General Hospital to hire a recovery

coach to help members diagnosed with a substance

use disorder.

“If we’re able to learn that attaching someone to a

recovery coach early reduces recidivism, it would

easily be worth the investment,” said

Neighbourhood’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Paul

Mendis.

A small health insurance company called CeltiCare is

spending more than 10 percent of its $24 million

prescription drug budget on the addiction treatment

Suboxone—more than it will spend on any other drug.

Many of the company’s 50,000 members are low-

income people on Medicaid. Some are homeless and

many have chronic diseases. Almost one-quarter of all

hospital admissions CeltiCare covers are related to

substance use disorders.

The insurer has begun limiting prescriptions of opioid

painkillers to 15 days at a time.

Doctors who want to prescribe more than that must

fill out additional paperwork. Patients being treated

for addiction do not need prior-authorization

requirements for all treatments, including detox

programs, outpatient care and medication.

CeltiCare this fall began offering training to its

members who take opioids, both legally and illegally,

4

and their families, in how to use the opioid overdose

antidote naloxone.

BATH SALTS

Synthetic stimulants that are marketed as

“bath salts” are often found in a number of

retail products. These synthetic stimulants are

chemicals. The chemicals are synthetic

derivatives of catinone, a central nervous

system stimulant, which is an active chemical

found naturally in the khat plant. Mephedrone

and MDPV(3-4

methylenedioxypyrovalerone) are two of the

designer catinones most commonly found in

these “bath salt” products. Many of these

products are sold over the internet, in

convenience stores, and in “head shops.”

STREET NAMES

Bliss, Blue Silk, Cloud, Nine, Drone, Energy-

1, Ivory Wave, Lunar Wave, Meow, Ocean

Burst, Pure dust, Vanilla Sky, White Dove,

White Knight, White Lightening.

LOOKS LIKE

“Bath Salts stimulant products are sold in

powder form in small plastic or foil packages

of 200 and 500 milligrams under various

brand names. Mephedrone is a fine white, off

white, or slightly yellow colored powder. It

can also be found in tablet and capsule form.

MDVP is a fine white or off white powder.

Methods of abuse effect on mind

people who abuse these substances have

reported agitation, insomnia, irritability,

dizziness, suicidal thoughts, seizures, and

panic attacks. Users have also reported effects

including impaired perception of reality,

reduced motor control, and decreased ability

to think clearly.

AFFECT ON THE BODY

Cathinone derivate act as central nervous

system stimulants causing rapid heart rate

(which may lead to heart attacks and

strokes), chest pains, nosebleeds, sweating,

nausea and vomiting.

DRUGS CAUSING SIMILAR EFFECTS

Drugs that have similar effects include

amphetamines, cocaine, Khat, LSD and

MDMA, these substances are usually

marketed with the warning “not intended for

human consumption. “Any time that users

put uncontrolled or unregulated substances

into their bodies, the effects are unknown

and can be dangerous.

LEGAL STATUS IN THE UNITED STATES

Mephedrone has no approved medical use in

the United States. It is not specifically

scheduled under the Controlled involving me-

phedrone can be prosecuted under the

Federal Analog Act of the Controlled

Substances Act. MDPV-3,4

methylenedioxypyrovalerone)has mp

approved medical use in the United States;

MDPV is not scheduled under the CSA.

5

COMMON PLACES OF ORIGIN

Law enforcement officials believe that the

stimulant chemicals contained in these

products are manufactured in China and India

and packaged for wholesale distribution in

Eastern Europe. Many countries have banned

these products.

2C-I, nicknamed “Smiles” is the latest

designer drug that is responsible for teen

deaths following in a long line of other

synthetic marijuana, “Spice” and “bath salts”.

The use of Smiles has not hit critical mass yet,

but it is growing.

Law Enforcement officials agree that they

can’t keep up with the latest designer drugs.

In a constant game of catch-up federal and

state l takeaway makers and losing the

battled to keep designer drugs like “Bath

Salts” and “Spice” in check,

As soon as the current chemical substance is

banned, a new chemical takes its place.

K2/SPICE

K2 is a mixture of leafy looking Herbs and

spices that are sprayed with a psychoactive

chemical, then smoked.

The mixture comes in several flavors

watermelon cotton candy and pineapple

express. K2, otherwise known as “fake pot”.

Is produced in China Korea, it’s sold online,

and can be found in smoke shops and stores

where incense is sold. Merchants who sell

these pricey bags of fragrant herbs can’t keep

them on the shelves.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Rapid heart rates • Drastically raised blood pressure • Hallucinations • Delusions • Can affect some users

neurological systems • Can cause changes in behavior

and perception • Seizures and Death

K2 sells an incense or potpourri for about $30 to $40 per three-gram bag. U. S. Drug Enforcement Administration bans K@ effective January 1, 2011 for one year while drug is researched for hazard concerns. The ban has been extended and the DEA is working to permanent add the chemicals to the Schedule 1 list.

Research into the effects of long- term

cannabis use on the structure of the brain has

yielded inconsistent results. It may

be that the effects are too subtle for

reliable detection by current techniques. A

similar challenge arises in studies of the

effects of chronic marijuana use on

brain function. Brain imaging studies in

chronic users tend to show some consisted

alterations but their connection

to impaired cognitive functioning is far from

clear. This uncertainty may stem from

confounding factors such as other drug use,

residual drug effects or withdrawal

symptoms in long-term chronic users.

6

LONG TERM- marijuana abuse can lead to

addiction: that is, compulsive drug seeking

and abuse despite the known harmful effects

upon functioning

in the context of family, school, work,

and recreational activities. Estimates from

research suggest that about 9 percent of users

become addicted to marijuana: this number

increases among those who start young (to

about 17

percent) and among daily users (25-50

percent).

Marijuana abusers trying to quit report

withdrawal symptoms including, irritability,

sleeplessness, decreased

appetite, anxiety and drug craving.

These symptoms begin within about 1 day

following abstinence, peak at 2-3 days and

subside within 1 or 2 weeks following drug

cessation. A number of studies have shown

an association between chronic marijuana use

and increased rates of anxiety.

Depression, and schizophrenia. Some of

these studies have shown age at first use to

be an important risk factor, where early use is

a marker of increased vulnerability to later

problems. However, at this time it is not clear

whether marijuana use causes mental

problems, exacerbates them, or reflects is an

attempt to self-medicated symptoms already

in existence.

Chronic marijuana use, especially in a very

young person, may also be a marker of risk

for mental illnesses including addiction

stemming from genetic or environmental

vulnerabilities, such as early exposure to

stress or violence. Currently the strongest

evidence links marijuana use and

schizophrenia and/or related disorders. High

doses of marijuana can produce an acute

psychotic reaction. In addition, use of

the drug may trigger the onset or relapse of

schizophrenia in vulnerable individuals.

Marijuana increases heart rate by 20-100

percent shortly after smoking, this effect can

last up to 3 hours. In one study, it was

estimated that marijuana users have a 4.8-

fold increase in the risk of heart attack in the

first hour after smoking the drug. This may

be due to increased heart rate as well as the

effects of marijuana on heart rhythms,

causing palpitations and arrhythmias this risk

may be greater in aging populations or in

those with cardiac vulnerabilities.

Marijuana grows are on the increase in

National Parks. The plant, cannabis sativa,

contains chemicals called " cannabinoids."

THC delta 9- (tetrhydrocannabinol)

believed to be responsible for the

psychoactive effects

of cannabis.

THC can be found in all parts of the cannabis

plant, including hemp.

This is why hemp is regulated carefully as

some hemp products such as clothing, rope,

yarn, lotion and soap are legal products

because they do not contain THC.

EFFECTS ON THE LUNGS

Numerous studies have shown marijuana

smoke to contain carcinogens and to be an

irritant to the lungs. In fact, marijuana

smoke contains 50-70 percent more

7

carcinogenic hydrocarbons than tobacco

smoke. Marijuana users usually inhale

more deeply and hold their breath longer

than tobacco smokers do, which further

increase the lungs' exposure to

carcinogenic smoke. Marijuana smokers

show deregulated growth of epithelial cells

in their lung tissue, which could lead to

cancer, 6 however a recent case controlled

study found no positive associations

between marijuana use and lung, upper

respiratory or upper digestive tract

cancers. 7 Thus, the link

between marijuana smoking and these

cancers remains unsubstantiated at this

time

Nonetheless, marijuana smokers can have

many of the same respiratory problems as

tobacco smokers, such as daily cough and

phlegm production, more frequent acute

chest illness, and a heightened risk of lung

infections. A study of 450 individuals found

that people who smoke marijuana

frequently but do not smoke tobacco have

more health problems and miss more days

of work than nonsmokers. Many of the

extra sick days among the marijuana

smokers to the study were for respiratory

illnesses.

EFFECTS ON DAILY LIFE

Research clearly demonstrates that

marijuana has the potential to cause

problems in daily life or make a person's

existing problems worse. In one study

heavy marijuana abusers reported that the

drug impaired several important measures

of life achievement, including

physical and mental health, cognitive

abilities, social life, and career status. 9.

Several studies associate worker's

marijuana smoking with increased

absences, tardiness, accidents, worker’s

compensation claims and job turnover.

Behavioral interventions, including cognitive

behavioral therapy and motivational

incentives (i.e., providing

vouchers for goods or services to

patients who remain abstinent) have shown

efficacy in treating marijuana dependence.

Although no medications are currently

available, recent discoveries about the

workings of the

cannabinoid system offer promise for the

development of medications to ease

withdrawal, block the intoxication

effects of marijuana, and prevent relapse.

The latest treatment data indicate that

marijuana accounted for 17 percent of

admissions (322,000) to treatment

facilities in the United States, second

only to opiates among illicit substances.

8

METHAMPHETAMINE

Methamphetamine use can be lethal, addictive, and unpredictable. This drug has effects similar to those of amphetamine, yet the effects of methamphetamine are more damaging to the central nervous system.

Chronic methamphetamine abuse can result in inflammation of the heart lining, and among users who inject the drug, damaged blood vessels and skin abscesses. Heavy users also exhibit progressive social and occupational deterioration. Psychotic symptoms (paranoia, delusions, and mood disturbances) can sometimes persist for months or years after use has ceased. Over time, methamphetamine appears to cause reduced levels of dopamine, which can result in symptoms like those of Parkinson’s disease, a severe movement disorder. Acute lead poisoning is another potential risk for methamphetamine abusers. A common method of illegal methamphetamine production uses lead acetate as a reagent. Production errors therefore may result in methamphetamine contami-nated with lead and there have been documented cases of acute lead poisoning in intravenous methamphetamine abusers. Hypo phosphorous acid, which is used legally for a variety of commercial purposes, is a chemical that increasingly is substituted for red phosphorus in the methamphetamine production process. The U.S. federal government regulates the sale of hypo phosphorous acid through registration, record keeping, reporting, and import/export

requirements regardless of the quantity being handled or distributed. Although hypo phosphorous acid is a List I chemical under the U.S. Controlled Substances Act, methamphetamine producers typically purchase the chemical via the Internet or from associates who also are engaged in methamphetamine production. The use of hypo phosphorous acid in methamphetamine production is an extremely dangerous practice because of the deadly gases that can be generated as well as the risk of fire or explosion. COCAINE Crack cocaine is derived directly from powder cocaine. In the process, cocaine (powder) is dissolved in a solution of ammonia or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and water. The solution is boiled until a solid substance separates from the boiling mixture. The solid substance, crack cocaine, is allowed to dry and then broken or cut into “rocks,” each weighing from one-tenth to one-half a gram. Crack is most typically heated and smoked. The term “crack” refers to the crackling sound heard when it is heated. One gram of pure cocaine will convert to approximately 0.89 grams of crack cocaine. Crack is typically between 75-90% pure cocaine. The effects of crack are similar to those of cocaine yet they occur more rapidly and are more intense but do not last as long as powder cocaine high. Smoking crack can cause severe chest pains with lung trauma and bleeding. Smoking crack also has a more rapid addiction potential. Smoking crack delivers large

9

quantities of the drug to the lungs, producing effects comparable to intravenous injection. These effects are felt almost immediately after inhaling and are very intense, but do not last long. For example, the high from smoking crack cocaine may last from 5 to 1 0 minutes. The high from snorting powder cocaine can last for 15 to 20 minutes.

OXYCODONE

Oxycodone is a narcotic prescribed

to relieve pain AND is twice as

potent as morphine. There are many

variations of Oxycodone products

on the market but of these

OxyContin, Percocet, and Percodan

are used and abused most

frequently.

OxyContin (Oxycodone

hydrochloride ER) is timed-release

version of Oxycodone and until

recently, was the only extended

release version of Oxycodone. In

March 2004, a genetic version

became available by prescription.

The generic version quickly became

available on the illegal drug market

and may pose a significant threat

because it is only available in 80

mg. doses, whereas

OxyContin is available in 10, 15

20,30,40,60 and 80mg.doses.

Oxycodone ER (the generic version)

comes in small oval, light green

tablets. One side of the tablet is

labeled

“93,” the other side is labeled “33.”1

Oxycontin is reportedly crushed (to

break down the timed-release

component) and then snorted or

injected. Used as a substitute for

heroin, abusers use the drug to

relieve pain alleviate withdrawal

symptoms, and gain euphoric effects

typically associated with use of the

drug. OxyContin generally sells for

$5 to $80 per tab-let, depending on

the strength of the dose.

Signs & Symptoms

• Dilated pupils • Hyperactivity • Euphoria • Irritability • Anxiety • Excessive talking • Depression or excessive

sleeping • Long periods without eating • Long periods without sleeping • Weight loss • Dry mouth and nose • Paranoia • Disturbance of heart rhythm • Chest pain • Heart failure • Respiratory failure • Strokes

• Seizures

As a prescribed medication

OxyCon-tin costs $4 per tablet. On

the street, OxyContin sells for $1

per milligram making a 40-mg tablet

$40.

Other possible negative effects

include an allergic reaction,

difficulty breathing, swelling of the

10

face, hives, seizures, loss of

consciousness, and coma. Effects of

long term use include constipation,

respiratory depression, physical

tolerance,

psychological and physical

depression, physical tolerance,

psychological, and physical

dependence. Withdrawal symptoms

include restlessness, muscle and bone pain, insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, cold flashes, and involuntary leg movements. Signs & Symptoms

• Pinpoint pupils • Nausea • Drowsiness • Impaired coordination • Weakness • Confusion • Muscle relaxation • Lower blood pressure • Lower heart/respiratory rate

THE TWELVE STEPS

1. We admitted we were powerless over substance abuse — that our lives had become unmanageable.

2. Came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.

3. Made a decision to turn our will and our over the care of God as we understood him.

4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.

5. Admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.

6. Were entirely ready to have God remove these defects of character.

7. Humbly asked him to remove our short-comings.

8. Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.

9. Made direct amends to such people where-ever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.

10. Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong, promptly admitted it.

11. Sought through prayer and meditation

to improve our conscious contact with God

as we understood him, praying only for

knowledge of his will for us and the power

to carry that out.

12. Having had a spiritual awakening as the

result of these steps, we tried to carry this

message to others with addictions, and to

practice these principles in all our affairs.

11

Besides their medical use,

Narcotics/opioids produce a general sense

of well-being by reducing tension, anxiety,

and aggression. These effects are helpful in

a therapeutic setting but contribute to the

drugs ‘abuse. Narcotic/opioid use comes

with a variety of unwanted effects,

including drowsiness, inability to con-

centrate, and apathy.

Heroin is a highly addictive drug and the

most rapidly acting of the opiates.

Heroin is processed from morphine, a

naturally occurring substance extracted

from the seed pod of certain varieties of

poppy plants grown in:

• Southeast Asia (Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar (Burma).

• Southwest Asia (Afghanistan and Pakistan)

• Mexico; and Colombia.

• It comes in several forms, the main one being “black tar” from Mexico (found primarily in the western United States) and white heroin

from Colombia (primarily sold on the East Coast), Heroin is typically sold as a white or brownish powder, or as the black stick substance known on the streets as “black tar heroin.” Although purer heroin is becoming more common, most street heroin is “cut” with other drug or with substances such as sugar, starch, powdered milk, or quinine. Heroin can injected, smoked, or sniffed/snorted or smoked. One of the most significant effects of heroin use is addiction. With regular heroin use, tolerance to the drug develops. Once this happens, the abuser must use more heroin to achieve the same intensity. As higher doses of the drug are used over time, physical dependence and addiction to the drug develop. Because heroin abusers do not know the actual strength of the drug or its true contents, they are at a high risk of overdose or death.

12

Other opioids such as OxyContin, Vicodin, co-deline, morphine, methadone, and fentanyl can cause similar effects as heroin. East Baton Rouge Louisiana Parish Coroner reports that Baton Rouge is on track to see heroin deaths reach record number this year. Naloxone can be “sprayed into the nose of an over-dose victim of opiated drugs like (OxyContin, Vicodin, or heroin) and keep them breathing and alive until medical help arrives. Police, emergency personnel, public health workers and private citizens in many states can now combat opiated drug overdose )$10.00. Narcotics are known as “opioids,” The term “narcotic” comes from the Greek word for “stupor” and originally referred to a variety of substances that dulled the senses and relieved pain. Though some people still refer to all drugs as “narcotics,” today “narcotic” refers to opium, opium derivatives, and their semi-synthetic substitutes. A more current term for these drugs, with less uncertainty regarding its meaning, is “opioid.” Examples include the illicit drug heroin and pharmaceutical drugs like OxyContin, Vicodin, codeine, morphine, methadone, and fentanyl.

FLAKKA

Use of a dangerous synthetic cathi none drug called alpha-pyrrolid inopentiophenone(alpha-PVP) Popularly known as “Flakka, “is surging in Florida and is also being reported in other parts of the country, according to news reports. Alpha-PVP is chemically similar to other synthetic cathinone drugs popularly called “bath salts”, and takes the form of a white or pink, foul-smelling crystal that can be eaten, snorted, injected, or vaporized in an e-cigarette or similar device. Vaporizing, which sends the drug very quickly into the bloodstream, may make it particularly easy to overdose. Like other drugs of this type, alpha-PVP can cause a condition called “excited delirium” that involves hyperstimu-lation, paranoia, and hallucinations that can lead to violent aggression and self-injury. The drug has been linked to deaths by suicide as well as heart attack. It can also dangerously raise body temperature and lead to kidney damage or kidney failure.

13

This drug is widely advertised for sale online by Chinese companies and can be shipped in large quantities to U.S. addresses by established global delivery companies. Flakka largely has replaced crack cocaine in the area, said a Fort Lauderdale Police Department Captain. Given that it is relatively easy to purchase online from China, he said. “Our concern is that we’re going to start getting people into the game that weren’t necessarily potential sellers and distributors in the past.” Flakka illustrates the threat posed synthetic drugs made in laboratories in China and elsewhere, such as spice, which mimics the effects of marijuana. As authorities crack down on one chemical

substance, manufacturers come up with something new that hasn’t been listed as controlled, said a spokesman for the Drug Enforcement Ad-ministration Hundreds of synthetic drugs has emerged in recent years, he said. Flakka has spread to Kentucky, Tennessee and Ohio, authorities say, hitting communities already hard-hit by prescription-drug abuse. Flakka which causes users to display bizarre behavior has posed difficulties for thinly staffed rural law-enforcement agencies and hospitals.

Parents need to set clear firm guidelines about what is

acceptable behavior. Parents need support (groups),

education and practice to become strong and skilled in

dealing with substance abuse related behavior. Your

home and it’s atmosphere are yours. Never let them go

14

Listen to me, I am an Addict/Alcoholic

I am a drug abuser. I need help.

Don’t solve my problems for me. This only

makes me lose respect for you-and for myself.

Don’t lecture, moralize, scold, blame, or argue

whether I’m stoned or sober. It may make you

feel better, but it only makes the situation

worse.

Don’t accept my promises. The nature of my

illness prevents my keeping them, even though

I mean them at the time. Promises are only my

way of postponing pain. And don’t keep

switching agreements; if an agreement is

made, stick to it.

Don’t lose your temper with me. It will destroy

you and any possibility of helping me.

Don’t let your anxiety for me make you do what

I should do for myself.

Don’t believe everything I tell you. Often, I

don’t even know the truth-let alone tell it.

Don’t cover up or try to spare me the

consequences of my using. It may reduce the

crisis, but it will make illness worse.

Above all, don’t run away from responsibility

as I do. Drug dependence, my illness, gets

worse as my using continues.

I need help-from a doctor, a psychologist, a

counselor, from some people in a self-help

program who’re recovering from a drug problem

themselves-and from a Power greater than myself.

WHAT IS ADDICTION Addiction affects the mind body and spirit that

takes control over a person’s life most addicts

have obsessive thoughts about their drug of

choice from when they wake in the morning and

continues on through their waking hours. The

thoughts remain with them until they give in and

take something.

Their tolerance for the substance increases and

they need more to get the same effect. Their

behavior becomes more erratic they become

secretive and isolate from family. They become

defensive and manipulative. This is a warning

sign of addiction.

Why is the Disease of Addiction so Secretive? The well-kept secret of sharing that someone

you love is suffering from the disease of

addiction (which the AMA declared a disease in

the 1950’s) is based in guilt, shame, fear of

reputation for self and the loved one, denial,

isolating from others, and don’t know who, to

trust.

There is not enough information as to what

families are going through. There’s a lot of

blame put on families. The DISEASE of addiction

has nothing to do with the home environment.

Thus, the secret makes it difficult to know where

to go for information and help.

There are many Self-Help groups such as our

own Parents Support Group meeting

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throughout NJ, calling the Self-Help number

which is 1-800-367-6274 and getting as much

education from professional in treatment

facilities that offer Family Education such as the

Carrier Foundation in Belle Mead or by calling

other facilities to ask what they offer. By taking

this action families can learn what they are

dealing with and how to handle the situations

appropriately. Families will learn, there are

always resources, help and hope available.

When families do find help, it’s so vital that they

stay and give support to new families.

Lasting Pleasures, Robbed by Drug

Abuse

Of all the things that people do, few are as puzzling

to psychiatrists as compulsive drug use. Sure, all

drugs of abuse feel good at least initially. But for

most people, the euphoria doesn’t last. A patient of

mine is all too typical know this will sound strange,”

he said, as I recall, “but cocaine doesn’t get me high

anymore and still I can’t stop.”

When he first started using the drug, in his early 30s,

my patient would go for days on a binge, hardly

eating or drinking. The high was better than

anything, even sex.

Within several months, though, he had lost the

euphoria — followed by his job. Only when his wife

threatened to leave him did he finally seek

treatment.

When I met him, he told me that he would lose

everything if he could not stop using cocaine. Well, I

asked, what did he like about this drug, if it cost him

so much and no longer made him feel good? He

stared at me blankly. He had no clue. Neither did

most psychiatrists, until recently.

We understand the initial allure of recreational drugs

well. Whether it is cocaine, alcohol, opiates, you

name it, drugs rapidly activate the brain’s reward

system a primitive neural circuit buried beneath the

cortex and release dopamine. This neurotransmitter,

which is central to pleasure and desire, sends a

message to the brain: This is an important

experience that is worth remembering.

CONFLICT Keys to Keeping the door Open

1. Clarify what the actual conflict is first.

Then, see if there is any other reason

this conflict is here; tired, low estrogen,

low sugar level, whatever.

2. Stick to the issue at hand. don’t

dredge up past hurts or problems,

whether real or perceived.

3. Maintain as much physical contact

as possible.

4. Avoid sarcasm.

5. Avoid “you” statements. Use the

words “I feel” or “I think.” No past or

future predictions. For example: Wife

says “You could have called, you know.

You always try my patience. You’re

inconsiderate and you always will be.” A

better example: “It’s not like you to be

late without calling. I was worried, what

happened to you?

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6. don’t use “hysterical” statements or

exaggerations at the time of conflict.

7. Resolve any hurt feelings before

continuing the conflict discussion.

8. don’t resort to name calling or losing

your temper. If this happens, agree to

continue the discussion later.

9. Avoid power statement and actions.

For example: “I quit!” “Sleep on the

couch tonight.” You’re killing me.”

1O.Don’t use the silent treatment.

11. Keep your arguments as private as

possible to avoid embarrassment.

12. Use the “Quick-listening Method” of

communication when arguing.

Repeating back each other’s words for

clarification.

13. Resolve your conflicts with “Win-

Win” solutions. Both agree with the

solution or outcome of the argument.

14. Above all, strive to reflect HONOR in

ALL of your words or actions during a

conflict.

ENABLING”

IT IS EASIER TO FIND A LIST OF

“DON’TS” IN DEALING WITH

CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY, FOR IT IS

EASIER TO UNDERSTAND WHY YOU

FAIL THAN TO KNOW WHY YOU

SUCCEED. THE FOLLOWING LIST IS

NOT INCLUSIVE, BUT IT MAKES A

GOOD BEGINNING.

1. Don’t allow the dependent person to lie

to you and accept it for the truth, for in

so doing, you encourage this process

(ENABLING). The truth is often

painful, but get at it

2. Don’t let the chemically dependent

person exploit you or take advantage of

you, for in so doing you become an

accomplice (ENABLER) in the evasion

of responsibility.

3. Don’t let the chemically dependent

person outsmart you, for this teaches

him/her to avoid responsibility and

loose respect for you at the same time

(ENABLING).

4. Don’t lecture, moralize, scold, praise,

blame, threaten, or argue. You may

feel better, but the situation will be

worse.

5. Don’t accept promises for this is just a

method of postponing pain. In the

same way, don’t keep switching

agreements. If an agreement is made

stick to it.

6. Don’t lose your temper and thereby

destroy yourself and any possibility of

help.

7. Don’t allow your anxiety to compel you

to do what the chemically dependent

must do for him/herself.

8. Don’t cover up or abort the

consequences of chemical use. This

reduces the crisis but perpetuates the

illness (ENABLING).

9. Don’t try to follow this as a rule book.

It is simply a “guide” to be used with

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intelligence and evaluation. If possible,

seek good professional help. You need

it as well as the chemically dependent

person.

10. Above all don’t put off facing the

reality that chemical dependency is a

progressive illness that gets

increasingly worse as use of mood

altering chemicals continues. Start

now to learn, to understand, and plan

for recovery. To do nothing is the

worst choice you can make.

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE ADDICT AND CO-DEPENDENT

CHEMICAL DEPENDENT CO-DEPENDENT

• Obsessed with drinking/drugging Obsessed with drinking/drugging

• Denying extent of problem Denying extent of problem

• Lying to cover drinking/drugging Lying to cover drinking/drugging

• Unexplained mood swings Unexplained mood swings

• Anger, depression, guilt, resentment Anger, depression, guilt, resentment

• Irrational acts Irrational acts

• Violence Violence

• Self-hate Self hate

• Spiritually sick Spiritually sick

CHARACTERISITICS OF RECOVERING

• Admit helplessness to control disease Admit helplessness to control disease

• Cease blaming Cease blaming

• Focus on self-taking responsibility for Focus on self-taking responsibility for own action own actions

• Seeking help for recovery Seeking help for recovery

• Begin to deal with own feelings rather Begin to deal with own feelings rather than avoid them than avoid them

• Build circle of well friends, healthy Build circle of well friends, healthy interests interests

Substance abusers have a disease and their disease affects their

families

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If you have any questions about suicide, or are experiencing a crisis in your life that seems too difficult

to handle, you can call these numbers for help, 24 hours a day.

SUICIDE

EAST ORANGE GENERAL HOSPITAL, CRISIS INTERVENTION UNIT

(973) 672-9685

FAMILY SERVICES BUREAU OF NEWARK

(973) 412-2056

POSION CONTROL CENTER

(800) 222-1222

SUICIDE (YOUTH IN CRISIS)

800- 621-4000

NOTE: AIDS HOTLINE

(800) 624-2377

THE 211 HOTLINES

Residents can now call 211, 24 hours a day seven days a week for referrals to a variety of social services

including: private & government agencies located in their community.

• Basic needs-food pantries, shelters, rent and utility assistance.

• Support for seniors and the disabled home health care, respite care and transportation.

• Family and children services, child care, after school programs, tutoring and summer camps

• Physical and mental health services, Medicaid and Medicare, crisis intervention and substance abuse programs.

• Employment, job training, education and financial assistance.

• Volunteer opportunities

SUICIDE

If you have any questions about suicide, or are experiencing a crisis in your life that seems too difficult to handle,

you can call these numbers for help, 24 hours a day

EAST ORANGE GENERAL HOSPITAL, CRISIS INTERVENTION UNIT (973) 672-9685

FAMILY SERVICES BUREAU OF NEWARK

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(973) 412-2056

POSION CONTROL CENTER

(800) 222-1222

SUICIDE (YOUTH IN CRISIS)

GRAND PARENT INFORMATION CENTER

The AARP Foundation provides crucial funding for the AARP Grandparent Information Center.

This special Information Center offers assistance for

grandparents who might need assistance bridging the distance if they live far away, handle a

conflict in their family, or even if they find themselves as the primary caregiver for their

grandchildren.

1-800-862-3446 www.aarp.org/grandparents

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS ENDURING LOSS FROM ADDICTION

(PLEA)

973-682-8733

HELP FOR THE PARENT CRISIS INTERVENTION

When teenagers are out of control due to the use of drugs, Crisis Intervention is a very helpful tool. The state

provides a Crisis Intervention Center in every county, you can access this service and the courts will intervene. The

course can order an addict into recovery program. Call before a crisis occurs to learn what services are available for

you and how to access these services when a crisis does occur. For further information, call your county Crisis

Intervention contact: Atlantic County- 609-344-1118

Bergen County- 201-336-7360

Burlington County- 856-234-0634 or

856-234-8888 or

866-234-5006

Cape May County 877-652-7624

Cherry Hill serving 1-888-375-8336

(Camden, Cumberland, Gloucester and

Salem Counties)

Essex County 973-623-2323(Suicidal)

973-972-0480 (Crisis)

Hudson County 201-915-221

Hunterdon County 908-788-640

Mercer County 609-396-4357 o 609-989-7297

Middlesex County 732-235-5700(Adult) or 732-5705 children

Morris County 973-625-0280

Ocean County 732-240-6100

Monmouth County 723-923-6999

Morris County 973-625-0280

Ocean County 609-693-5834

Passaic County 973-754-2230

Somerset County 908-232-2880

Sussex County 800-969-4357

Union County 908-289-7800

Warren County 908-454-5141

KISS Do Not LECTURE

Do Not ARGUE

Direct Clear Statements When

Addict is Sober

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Are What Each Parent Should Strive

For: Avoid trying to psycho-analyze

Avoid Projection

Do Not Have To Explain Yourselves

Speak Clear and Tell The Truth with

Simplicity

Example: I Love You, Go Get Sober

Reasoning, Lecturing, scolding

and threatening are methods that

seldom work with substance

abusers.

Did you know 1 teaspoon of

cinnamon can cause lungs to

collapse it’s called Dragon Face.

Keep coming back. It works if

you work it so work it you’re

worth it!

PARENTS SUPPORT GORUP-NEW JERSEY INC.

1-800-561-4299 (TOLL FREE)

WEBSITE: www.psgnjhomestead.com

• PARENTS SUPPORT GROUP-NEW JERSEY INC. helps mothers and fathers to understand and cope with the disease of addiction.

• As a nonprofit foundation, we sponsor self-

help groups based on Twelve Steps, however we are no affiliated with any other twelve-step program.

• We believe that addiction is an illness and that changed attitudes and responses by the parents can greatly help a child’s recovery.

• Our mothers and fathers refer to their sons and daughters as children, even though they range in age from 18 to 50+.

• Each support group has a team of two facilitators who are trained to ensure that meetings deal with appropriate subject matter and that everyone has a chance to participate.

• Guest speakers attend our meetings on a regular basis. They include counselors from well-known rehabilitation facilities and prominent authorities in the field of addiction.

• Absolute confidentiality is practiced by the staff and required of all parents.

• There are no financial charges to parents attending our meetings.

• We are not associated with any organization, institution, political party, sect or denomination. We have no position on any causes nor do we engage in any controversy

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DON’T EVER GIVE UP