"Spice" in New Hampshire: Highly Addictive and On the Rise

“Spice” in New Hampshire: Highly Addictive and On the Rise

What is “Spice” and Why is it Dangerous?

The Drug “Spice” may look like the potpourri you buy your grandmother for Christmas and may sound like something to be added to food, but don’t be fooled. Spice, also known as “K2”, (“K2” being a popular brand of Spice), can be defined as Synthetic Marijuana. Often sold as “incense” in head shops, the Spice drug is most often abused by smoking, but can also be mixed with food or drink. Poison Control Centers whom receive regular calls from Spice abusers report severe withdrawal and addiction symptoms and such symptoms from users as hallucinations, confusion, agitation, vomiting and rapid heart rate which is associated with reduced blood supply to the heart and high risk for heart attacks. 

An increasingly alarming reality associated the drug Spice is that we are not exactly sure of the effects of Spice on the human brain. Scientists do know that the compounds found within Spice loosely resemble those within Marijuana, but may actually bind more strongly to the brain’s receptors. Reports have also been made which indicate the presence of unknown substances, chemicals and assorted additives. Such realities are associated with a “stronger high” than Marijuana and unpredictable results. Though the Spice drug is advertised as “natural”, this is far from reality. Spice is synthetic and thus it is not natural and certainly not safe.

Not only does Spice resemble Marijuana in appearance, the effects of the two substances have been reported as similar. Such effects include:

·         hallucinations

• paranoia
• relaxation 
•   extreme anxiety
• elevation in mood
• altered perception

Spice Sales in New Hampshire

The frightening reality of the Spice drug is that it can be found in stores around the state of New Hampshire. Despite efforts to ban the presence of this substance, (Spice is technically illegal), the drug is commonly disguised under different names and/or the ingredients are changed.

In 2012, the DEA seized both synthetic marijuana (Spice) and Bath Salts, (another dangerous and addictive drug often sold in head shops and convenience stores alongside Spice). 8.5 kilos of Spice and Bath Salts were confiscated from a New Hampshire self-storage locker. Hampton, New Hampshire police believed that before seized, such drugs were intended to stock New Hampshire convenience stores and New Hampshire head shops. On July 25, 2012, the DEA executed 265 search warrants in over 90 cities in 30 states. This was in an effort to seize both Spice and other brands of Synthetic Marijuana and Bath Salts.

Though the DEA’s large Spice bust occurred in 2012, it is important to note that prevalence of Spice and other synthetic drugs disguised as harmless substances, (such as Bath Salts) remain on the market. Many individuals right here in New Hampshire suffer from addictions to synthetic drugs, to include both Synthetic Marijuana (Spice) and Bath Salts.

We’re Here to Help!

At Self-empowerment NH, LLC, we take addiction issues personally. A counseling company located in Concord, NH; at Self-empowerment NH LLC, we understand how difficult addiction can be and have an extensive background in treating individuals suffering from the toughest of addictions, to include addiction to Spice and Bath Salts. We are outraged by the state of New Hampshire’s negligence in providing access to addiction treatment and adequate prevention measures. We have made it our mission to fight one of the most devastating of all diseases to ever be identified. Addiction. 

Lori Magoon is a Licensed Mental Health Clinician and a Master’s Level Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselor. Lori’s effectiveness is based on providing a welcoming, supportive and non-judgmental environment for all clients; as well as use of innovative counseling strategies with scientifically proven effectiveness. Lori stresses that as long as the individual seeking treatment is invested in his/her recovery, recovery from even the toughest of addictions is possible.

 Self-empowerment NH, LLC accepts health insurance and does offer a sliding scale for those who qualify. A variety of services are offered at our Concord location, some of which include; individual and group counseling, evaluations and presentations for parents, educators and both large and small employers in reference to signs and symptoms of substance abuse. 

To schedule an appointment or to attain more information, please contact Lori at selfempowermentnh.com or by phone at (603)470-6937.

Open the door to self-empowerment. Open the door to a better tomorrow.

Sources:

·         http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/spice-synthetic-marijuana

·         http://www.wishtv.com/news/local/franklin-gas-station-shut-down-again-after-spice-raid

Back to School, Back to Substance Abuse: Is Your Child Using Drugs?

Back to School, Back to Substance Abuse:

Is Your Child Using Drugs?

September brings the start of the 2013-2014 school year. For some parents, the start of the school year is a relief, an opportunity for more free time during the week. For other parents, however, the start of the school year brings anxieties and fears surrounding their children associating with the “wrong crowd” and experimenting with drugs. This September, all parents should activate the “eyes behind their head” and pay close attention to their children’s behavior. With a recent rise in the use of dangerous mind-altering substances, such as Bath Salts, “Molly” or MDMA and Synthetic Marijuana, association with the “wrong crowd” can be more detrimental than ever.

According to a recent survey, ninety percent of American high school students report that one or more of their classmates uses illicit drugs regularly during the school day. These numbers are alarming, as we often assume that school is a safe and healthy environment for young people. With heavy volumes of students due to funding decreases; educators often cannot recognize student drug use, let alone facilitate an intervention. In order to keep our youth population away from such dangerous drugs as Bath Salts, “Molly” (MDMA) and Synthetic Marijuana, as well as other mind-altering substances; parents must pay close attention to their children and take immediate action if they suspect that their child may be using drugs.

1.)    Search for Signs: There are signs specific to all drugs, including Bath Salts, “Molly” and Synthetic Marijuana. Parents should search for such signs as; paleness of skin, discoloration, dark circles around the eyes, rapid weight loss, sudden mood changes, shaky hands, suffering grades, suspicious school absences and a shortened temper.

2.)    Search Your Child’s Bedroom: Bath Salts, “Molly”, Synthetic Marijuana and other mind-altering substances could be hidden within a child’s personal space. Thus, as a parent, you have the right to search your child’s bedroom. The most likely spots for drugs to be hidden include; under cabinets, under mattresses, under dresses and inside pockets of clothing not commonly worn.

3.)    Look Closely at Your Child: Children using Bath Salts, MDMA, Synthetic Marijuana or other mind-altering substances are often withdrawn. This is especially true in interactions with parents or other figures of authority. If your child is using mind-altering substances, he/she will likely avoid conversation and give short yes or no answers. He/she will also likely seek to mask physical symptoms of drug use and may take such measures as; chewing gum, using Visine to disguise eye redness, and covering eyes with a hat or another piece of clothing.

4.)    Keep Track of Your Child’s Friends: The more you know about your child’s friends, the better. Peers are a significant influence on your child, and association with the “right friends” is critical for a young person’s “drug free” existence.

5.)    Give Your Child a Random Drug Test: This may seem like a desperate measure, but if you are concerned that your child is using Bath Salts, MDMA, Synthetic Marijuana or another illegal substance; this step is an appropriate one.

6.)    Keep Track of Your Child’s Money: If your child has a job where he/she makes their own money, have a job where he/she earns money, keep track of the money you give them. Many young people save the money their parents give them to buy drugs.

7.)    Check Your Child’s Vehicle After a Friday or Saturday Night: Pay close attention to unusual odors and search for signs of white powders, (especially white powders present on CDs or mirrors), green leaf-like particles and seeds.

Parenting is more stressful of a job than ever. With the presence of such frightening drugs as; Bath Salts, MDMA, Synthetic Marijuana, the development of open, strong and judgment-free parent and child relationships are crucial. With school in full-swing, collaboration between educators and parents can also be extremely beneficial.

Self-Empowerment NH, LLC specializes in working with families suffering from substance abuse issues. Through both individual counseling and family counseling; Selfempnh is here to serve as an empathetic, confidential and non-judgmental support system.

Self-Empowerment NH, LLC is also excited to announce half and full day presentations, one in which is titled Signs and Symptoms of Substance Abuse in the Workplace. Signs and Symptoms of Substance Abuse in the Workplace is an interactive presentation geared for parents and educators seeking education about youth substance abuse. Learn about the signs and symptoms of youth substance abuse by drug of choice, and appropriate steps for intervention and recovery. For more information about the signs of youth drug abuse, counseling and group services and/or presentations, please contact Lori Magoon, MLADC, LCMHC at (603)470-6937 or selfempowermentnh@gmail.com.

 

You are not alone. Open the door to self empowerment. Open the door to a better tomorrow.

 

 

 

 

Bath Salts: Not Meant for Bubble Baths

Bath Salts: Not Meant for Bubble Baths

The term Bath Salts has been featured in the media quite a bit this year. However, the Bath Salts the media has been referring to are not meant for luxurious bubble baths. Bath salts, also known as "Ivory Wave," "Purple Wave," Vanilla Sky," and "Bliss" are Methylenedioxypyrovalerone; designer drugs which contain synthetic chemicals that are similar to Amphetamines. Despite the misleading label, Bath Salts do not have anything to do with hygiene, and the exact chemicals present within this drug are currently unknown.

In recent months, Bath Salt use has become prevalent within the American youth population. The reported effects of Bath Salts are disturbing and include; hallucinations, kidney pain, chest pain, nausea, heightened blood pressure, muscle tension, suicidal thinking/behavior, agitation, paranoia, delusions, confusion, an increased pulse and drug induced violence. There have also been several reports of individuals dying from the abuse of such designer drugs as Bath Salts; both through the medical effects of this drug and through the actions inspired by a Bath Salt high.  

Bath Salts, like other designer drugs, can be taken in many different ways, including through; shooting, snorting and mixing with food and drink. Individuals who normally use Cocaine or Methamphetamine as their drug of choice may choose to use such designer drugs as Bath Salts, as the high is similar to that of such “upper” drug. Bath Salts are strong stimulants and have been considered highly addictive, producing intense cravings on part of addicted individuals.

In addition to looking for the reported effects of bath salts as listed above, concerned individuals may recognize a designer drug user through such signs as euphoria (“high”), sexual stimulation and a heightened sense of focus and energy for a period of two to four hours. Parents should talk to their children about the serious dangers associated with designer drugs, particularly Bath Salts. As designer drugs are often easily accessible, young people are often unaware of the serious risks associated with such substances. It is imperative for all individuals, particularly youth, to be made aware of the multiple severe medical and emotional complications which are associated with Bath Salt abuse, including the risk of death.

The diagnosis of Bath Salt addiction often involves the gathering of medical, family and mental-health information. As such designer drugs are highly addictive; the process of recovery requires intensive therapy and support from the loved ones of the addicted individual.

 At Self Empowerment NH, LLC, we specialize in addiction therapy; offering services by a Certified Mental Health Clinician and Master’s level Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Our philosophy focuses on families, recognizing that when an individual is struggling with substance abuse; his or her entire family is affected. Self Empowerment NH, LLC has a background in supporting individuals suffering from the toughest of addictions, and seeks to communicate the message that addicted individuals and the loved ones of individuals struggling with addiction are not alone. Selfempnh is here to serve as an empathetic, confidential and non-judgmental support system. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction, please contact Lori Magoon, MLADC, LCMHC at (603)470-6937or selfempowermentnh@gmail.com.

You are not alone. Open the door to self empowerment. Open the door to a better tomorrow.