Just One More Reason You Should Quit Today: Secondhand Smoke Devestating for Both Children and Non-Smoking Adults

Just One More Reason You Should Quit Today: Secondhand Smoke Devastating for Both Children and Non-Smoking Adults

So why quit smoking? You hear all of the chatter about Lung Cancer and Emphysema, but you haven’t been diagnosed yet. Your teeth may be a little yellow, but that’s what whitening strips were invented for, right? Besides, the stress of quitting smoking is way too much on top of all the stress you are already dealing with in everyday life. But what about second-hand smoke? Did you know that secondhand smoke occurs most often in homes and workplaces and has devastatingly detrimental effects on non-smoking individuals?

Secondhand smoke can be defined as a mixture of gases and fine particles which includes smoke from a burning cigarette, cigar or pipe tip which has been exhaled or breathed out by the person or people smoking. Secondhand smoke exposure most often occurs in homes and workplaces, but can also occur in such public places as restaurants, bars, casinos and private vehicles. Despite popular belief, ventilation does not eliminate secondhand smoke exposure. The only way to ensure that secondhand smoke does not occur is by, (sigh), quitting smoking.
Not surprisingly, the population which is most affected by secondhand smoke is children, specifically young children. In children, secondhand smoke can cause more frequent and severe asthma attacks, ear infections, respiratory infections, other respiratory symptoms and a greater risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. As a result of secondhand smoke, approximately 7,500-15,000 hospital visits are made by children and an estimated 150,000-300,000 new case of Bronchitis and Pneumonia are reported annually.

Non-smoking adults are also affected by secondhand smoke. This is most common when non-smoking adults have romantic partners whom are smokers. If individuals knew that they were putting their loved ones at risk for Heart Disease and/or lung Cancer, would they still choose to smoke? Would they think more about their actions if they knew that there is no risk-free level of contact with secondhand smoke? Despite contrary belief, the “it was just for a second” mentality does not apply in terms of secondhand smoke exposure.
Unfortunately, as any smoker knows, quitting is just not that easy. It can be incredibly stressful and even agonizing. Many individuals want to quit smoking, mindful of the risks smoking presents to themselves and their loved ones, but do not feel that they are able to.

So what if there was a solution? No, it is not a patch. It is not a pill. The solution to successfully quitting smoking is a choice. It is a choice that an individual makes for themselves and for their loved ones. It is the choice to choose support from a professional counselor whom specializes in helping motivated and dedicated individuals quit smoking.

Addiction is addiction. Whether you are addicted to alcohol, illegal drugs, food or cigarettes, fighting addiction is a difficult battle. Effective counselors whom seek to assist clients in quitting smoking often utilize the “Five A’s” of counseling patients to stop using tobacco. Such “Five A’s” include; asking, advising, assessing, assisting and arranging. An effective counselor may support a client within the development of a smoking cessation plan and help guide the client through the process. It is important to note that the client must be fully invested in his/her decision to quit smoking in order for such counseling to be effective.

 The decision to quit smoking is one to be made not only for oneself, but for loved ones as well. Secondhand smoke is a serious issue, and one that is too often overlooked. Millions are affected by secondhand smoke, to include both children and adults, and devastating health effects are the result.

Self-Empowerment NH, LLC, located in Concord, New Hampshire, has a background in supporting individuals suffering from the toughest of addictions, including addictions to Nicotine and to the act of smoking itself, (humans are habitual creatures and habits, even the unhealthy and dirty ones like putting poison to one’s lips, can be incredibly difficult to break). If you or someone you know is invested in quitting smoking but is having trouble doing so, Selfempnh can help. As an organization, we are here to serve as an empathetic, confidential and non-judgmental support system. Lori Magoon, MLADC, LCMHC, has a background in assisting individuals in quitting smoking through both traditional counseling approaches and Hypnotherapy. For more information about the services Self Empowerment NH, LLC offers, please contact Lori at (603)470-6937or selfempowermentnh@gmail.com. You can also visit the organization’s website at selfempowermentnh.com.

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

 

 

 

From Pills to Heroin: Rates of Opioid Abuse High in New Hampshire

From Pills to Heroin: Rates of Opioid Abuse High in New Hampshire

No one likes to be in pain. Thus, it makes perfect sense for medical professionals to prescribe Opioid pain-killers as a method of pain management for clients whom require such. When Opioids are used as directed under medical supervision, such medications can be both effective and non-addictive. Unfortunately, this is not often the case and Opioid abuse has become a large problem within the state of New Hampshire.

The use of prescription Opioids for other than their medical purpose is considered abuse. Opioid abuse is alarming for several reasons. Since Opioids are depressant drugs, they slow down the part of the brain that controls breathing. They are also highly addictive and are associated with detrimental long term social, financial and emotional effects. Opioid abuse may also cause menstrual irregularities, mood swings, constipation and a decreased interest in sex. Opioid overdose can be fatal.

Prescription Opioids are very expensive and can be difficult to obtain. As a result, addicted parties often turn to Heroin, (a cheaper and more easily obtainable drug with similar effects). In New Hampshire, authorities have seen a dramatic increase in Heroin use, even suggesting an ultimate high rate of Opioid abuse within the state.

The possession and distribution of Opioids is regulated by federal law. Use of such drugs is only legal when prescribed by a licensed medical practitioner. However, based on the high demand for Opioids, pills are often stolen from health facilities or sold to addicted parties by individuals with prescriptions.

Most Opioid addictions begin with a legal prescription. An individual may be prescribed Opioid pain-killers for pain-management and find that when their pain is gone and the prescription runs out, they are unable to stop using the medication. Soon, they are not thinking clearly and taking illegal measures to obtain pills. They may even resort to using Heroin when they can no longer afford the high price of illegal Opioid pain-killers.

How do You Know that You are Addicted to Opioids?

If you were prescribed Opioid pain-killers and are concerned that addiction has already manifested or may manifest in the future, there are several questions that you might ask yourself:

• Do you find yourself taking larger amounts of Opioids or taking Opioids over a longer period than was intended?
• Do you experience urges, cravings or strong desires to use Opioids?
• Do you experience a persistent desire for Opioids?
• Have you engaged in unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control Opioid use?
• Have you spent a great deal of time in activities necessary to obtain, use, or recover from the effects of the Opioid?
• Have you continued to use Opioids despite experiencing persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of Opioids?
• Do you use Opioids in a fashion that results in a failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home?
• Have you given up or reduced important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of Opioid use?
• Have you continued to use Opioids in physically hazardous situations?
• Do you feel that you have developed a tolerance to Opioids, (either a need for increased amounts of Opioids to achieve intoxications or desired effect, or a diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of an Opioid)?
• Have you continued to use Opioids despite knowledge of having persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problems that are likely to have been caused or worsened by the substance?
• Have you experienced withdrawal from Opioids?

Opioid abuse is not a problem which is diminishing, but is instead becoming more prevalent. Self-Empowerment NH, LLC, located in Concord, New Hampshire, has a background in supporting individuals suffering from the toughest of addictions, including addictions to Opioids. If you or someone you know is struggling with an Opioid addiction, or any other addiction, Selfempnh can help; as we are here to serve as an empathetic, confidential and non-judgmental support system. For more information, please contact Lori Magoon, MLADC, LCMHC at (603)470-6937 or selfempowermentnh@gmail.com.

New Hampshire Struggles with Substance Abuse: Why Illegal Drugs are More Prevalent and Dangerous Than Ever

New Hampshire Struggles with Substance Abuse: Why Illegal Drugs are More Prevalent and Dangerous than Ever

Illegal drugs plague the entire world as we know it. For as long as there are human beings on Planet Earth; substance abuse and addiction issues will likely exist. Though most individuals recognize that substance abuse and addiction is a large problem, few recognize substance abuse as a local issue. However, 2013 studies rank New Hampshire among the highest for rates of alcohol and drug abuse, New Hampshire ranking 5^th in the nation for Alcohol and Drug Abuse among young adults. Binge drinking among New Hampshire’s 18-25 year old population is 9% above the national average and 27% of young adults use Marijuana on a regular basis. According to the The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 11 percent of New Hampshire residents reported past-month use of illicit drugs, while the national average falls at 8 percent.

 

Why has Substance Abuse become a larger problem in New Hampshire?

There are several alarming new trends which contribute to substance abuse in New Hampshire. Drug prices have dropped significantly over the course of the last 20 years. Yet, the purity of illegal drugs has increased. The combination of cheaper prices and purer ingredients has authorities fearful for the large population of individuals whom struggle with substance abuse issues within the state of New Hampshire. At the global level, the British Medical Journal Open suggests that it is time to consider drug use from a public health perspective. Similar reports emphasize the role and importance of substance abuse counseling.

What Role do Substance Abuse Counselors Play?

Substance Abuse Counselors play an imperative role in decreasing illegal drug use. Most individuals who seek substance abuse treatment from an effective substance abuse counselor over an extended period of time are able to stop abusing substances. As a result, criminal activity is decreased and occupational, social and psychological functioning is significantly improved. Quality interaction between the patient and his or her treatment providers can be crucial within attaining higher quality of life for individuals suffering from addiction.

It is important to recognize that successful substance-abuse treatment requires continual evaluation and appropriate modification; two strategies utilized by substance abuse counselors. Effective substance abuse counselors practice non-judgment, and have experience in counseling individuals with many different drugs of choice, as well as individuals whom have suffered from trauma within their lifetime.

If you or someone you know suffers from substance abuse issues and is seeking treatment from an experienced and effective substance abuse counselor, Self-empowerment NH, LLC is here to help. Located in Concord, NH, Lori Magoon, MLADC, LCMHC provides high-quality counseling services.  She specializes in working with families suffering from substance abuse issues, and 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 Youth Substance Abuse. This presentation is geared for parents and educators seeking education about youth substance abuse. Signs and Symptoms of Substance Abuse in the Workplace is another presentation which Selfempnh offers, meant to provide a valuable professional development opportunity in educating employers/employees in how substance abuse issues affect the success of businesses and organizations.

 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.

 

 

 

Trick, Not a Treat: Reports of Krokodil Use Make Cause for Concern this Halloween Season

Trick, Not a Treat

Reports of Krokodil Use Make Cause for Concern this Halloween Season

This Halloween season, belly aches from excess candy corn consumption are the least of the public’s worries. There have been several reports of Krokodil, or Desomorphine use within The United States, and authorities feel that this drug could soon take the place of Heroin.

Krokodil, or Desomorphone, is an Opioid. Thus, like other Opioids, this drug has a sedative and analgesic effect. Krokodil is attractive to Opioid dependent individuals because it can easily be made with paint thinner, Hydrochloric Acid, lighter fluid, Red Phosphorus, Codine and Iodine. Since Desomorphone can be “homemade”, it is both cheaper and more easily attainable than such Opioids as Heroin and Oxycodone. In that it is eight times more potent than most other Opioids and incredibly fast-acting; Krokodil or Desomorphone use is an alarming trend this fall.

Krokodil use is new within The United States. However, this drug has been popular in other countries for a number of years and is specifically prevalent in Russia. The term Krokodil derives from the Russian word for crocodile, as one of the drug’s side effects includes the development of green and scaly skin. Other side effects of this drug include; abcesses, gangrene, blood vessel rupture, tissue damage, deterioration of motor skills, severe brain damage and death. Chronic Desomorphone users should not expect to live longer than two to three years. This can be compared to an average 6-7 year life-span o of an individual after becoming a Heroin addict.

As Krokodil is an Opioid, it is highly addictive. As it becomes more prevalent within The United States, it is expected that addiction rates will rise. If you are concerned that someone you know may be suffering from an addiction this Halloween season, look for the following signs:

·         Changes in appetite, sleep patterns and/or weight

·         Blood shot eyes or pupil dilation

·         Unusual smells on clothing, breath or body

·         Tremors, impaired coordination and/or slurred speech

·         Deterioration of school or work attendance/performance

·         Unexplained financial problems

·         Engagement in secret or suspicious behavior

·         Changes in attitude or personality

·         Sudden mood swings

·         Lack of motivation

·         Periods of unusual hyperactivity and paranoia

Self-Empowerment NH, LLC, located in Concord, New Hampshire, has a background in supporting individuals suffering from the toughest of addictions. If you or someone you know is struggling with Krokodil addiction, or any other addiction, Selfempnh can help, as we are here to serve as an empathetic, confidential and non-judgmental support system. For more information, please contact Lori Magoon, MLADC, LCMHC at (603)470-6937or selfempowermentnh@gmail.com.

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.

 

 

 

 

"Lazy Cakes"- The Dangers of the Melatonin Snack

 “Lazy Cakes”- The Dangers of the Melatonin Snack

Lazy Cakes have been labeled as the world’s first relaxation brownie. Containing the ingredient Melatonin, a medication that can help promote sleep, Lazy Cakes act similar to a hypnotic. Although Melatonin is a hormone produced within the brain and is a legal supplement, Lazy Cakes are not necessarily harmless and youth consumption is especially dangerous. The human brain normally produces 0.3 milligrams of Melatonin, and an average Lazy Cake contains about 3.9 milligrams of this ingredient. Thus, Lazy Cakes are categorized as a drug, can be fatal when taken excessively and should never be consumed by children.

Since Lazy Cakes look like regular brownies, there is a high risk of overdose through consumption, as well as probability of accidental children consumption. There have been a number of reports of Melatonin overdose in young people in association with Lazy Cakes, categorizing Melatonin as the cause of more calls to Poison Control than any other herbal supplement. Though the Lazy Cake package specifies adult use only, youth Melatonin consumption is common and has been associated with such effects as diarrhea and nausea.

Perhaps more alarming than the increase of calls to the Poison Control Center in association with Melatonin overdose are the uses of Lazy Cakes as marketed through advertisements. The website which sells Lazy Cakes associates their product with such stimulants as Red Bull, marketing Lazy Cakes as a means to come “down” after being “up” on energy drinks. The use of “uppers” and “downers” together is concerning in that injuries and deaths have been associated with high Melatonin and/or Caffeine levels, and the combination of such substances can be harmful to the human body. Based on the Lazy Cake website content, Lazy Cake manufacturers also advertise their product as food rather than as a drug. This is concerning to parents and medical professionals, as children may not have the ability to distinguish the difference between a food and a drug, and may consume Lazy Cakes irresponsibly, (in excess).

Lazy Cakes are easily accessible to all populations, as they can be obtained both at local convenience stores and over the internet. Lazy Cakes are also reasonably priced, thus; such Melatonin snacks can be purchased by minors at ease. Since drugs with similar effects as Melatonin, such as Marijuana, are generally more expensive than Lazy Cakes and cannot be obtained as easily; Melatonin goodies have become a common snack of choice for individuals seeking a “mellow” effect.

Just as such drugs as Marijuana have been labeled as “gateway drugs”, (drugs which lead individuals to more potent and dangerous drug use), there are concerns that Lazy Cakes may also serve as a “gateway”.  Just as a large number of individual rely on caffeine to get through the day; the heightened use of Lazy Cakes has sparked a trend of regular and sometimes often daily Melatonin use. The “gateway” possibilities present one more concern for parents of teens who may have or continue to consume Lazy Cakes.

If you or someone you know has been affected by Lazy Cake use, or if you would like more information about the dangers of Melatonin induced snacks;  Self Empowerment NH, LLC is here to help. 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.

 

 

 

 

MDMA: A Death Trap for Youth

MDMA: A Death Trap for Youth

 

August 2013 was a month of publicity for MDMA, also known as “Molly” or Methylenedioxymethamphetamine. This illegal white powder, sold from $15 to $50 per hit, made the news several times when two people died at a New York dance festival over Labor Day weekend in association with MDMA use.  Despite the recent MDMA headlines and the presence of the drug in new singles by such artists as Miley Cirus and Kanye West; “Molly” is not a new drug. Methylenedioxymethamphetamine is also not a safe drug, and is associated with potential adverse health effects, undesirable effects to last up to one week after use, and death.

MDMA produces a unique high for most users, which is potentially the reason for the popularity of the substance. The effects of “Molly” which make it desirable for users include; emotional warmth, mental stimulation, a general sense of well-being, empathy towards others, decreased anxiety and enhanced sensory perception. This substance is most often used among youth populations, and is most common in dance or club settings, as MDMA is known to aid users in dancing for extended periods of time. Since “Molly” is a pure form of an ingredient typically found in the illegal drug Ecstasy, there is a misconception among users that the drug is safe. As demonstrated by multiple Labor Day deaths and a shocking number of negative health reports in association with MDMA, Methylenedioxymethamphetamine is extremely dangerous.

Though rumored as safe in reference to its purity, “Molly” is associated with such undesirable effects as; anxiety, restlessness, irritability, sadness, impulsiveness, aggression, lack of appetite, sleep disturbances, reduction in mental ability and interest in sex, decreased sexual pleasure and thirst. The potential adverse health effects associated with this substance include; chills, sweating, involuntary jaw clenching and teeth grinding, nausea, blurred vision, muscle cramping, rise in body temperature, heart and kidney failure, Arrhythmia, dehydration, high blood pressure and death. Overdose of MDMA is common and symptoms include; high blood pressure, panic attacks, loss of consciousness, faintness, seizures and death. The popularity of “Molly” among populations of youth is speculated to relate to the unnerving number of overdose reports.

Perhaps the most frightening trait of MDMA, besides the frequency of deaths in association with the substance, is the length of time in which effects of the drug may exist. Users may experience changes after using MDMA for a week or longer, particularly in reference to memory loss and basic mental processing ability. Other serious risks arise when drug dealers mix other harmful substances with MDMA without notifying users. When mixed with other drugs, “Molly” is more likely to be fatal.

Although MDMA addiction is not as severe as such addictions as Cocaine or Crystal Methamphetamine, a rising number of individuals have reported MDMA dependency. MDMA affects many of the same neurotransmitter systems in the brain as other addictive drugs, and symptoms associated with withdrawal have been reported.

Self-Empowerment NH, LLC has a background in supporting individuals suffering from the toughest of addictions, including MDMA dependence, 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 or seeks more information about "Molly" or other illegal drugs, 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.