Justin Bieber Arrested for Drunk Driving: How Celebrity Influence Contributes to Substance Abuse Issues

Justin Bieber Arrested for Drunk Driving: How Celebrity Influence Contributes to Substance Abuse Issues

From the clothes we wear and the way in which we talk, to the food we eat and the unfortunate substance abuse habits we model after; it cannot be argued that youth and adults alike are influenced by celebrities. Since it is common for the “rich and the famous” to struggle with substance abuse and addiction issues, (perhaps due to pressures from the media, monetary resources, the non-traditional celebrity lifestyle or a combination of the three), celebrity substance abuse sends the message that the abuse of substances is acceptable, and perhaps even trendy.

When Justin Bieber was arrested on the morning of January 23, 2014 for drunk driving, resisting arrest and driving without a valid license, fans were sent the message that drinking and driving is okay, “Even Justin Bieber does it…” The smile in Bieber’s mug shot which went viral immediately after release sent the message “Yeah, I got arrested. No big deal…”

What is perhaps the most concerning of Bieber’s arrest, (aside from his acts of endangering others by driving while intoxicated) is that the majority of Justin Bieber’s fan base consists of young teens whom are especially impressionable and may have newly attained a driver’s license or are in the process of working to attain one. They are entering an age when the decisions they make have the potential for lasting impact and “role models” like Bieber are inadvertently destructive behaviors, especially in regards to substance abuse.Bieber is by no means the first celebrity to make headlines in regards to substance abuse and addiction related run-ins with the law. Such celebrities as Amanda Bynes, Kesha, Britney Spears, Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan (to name a few) have also been featured in the news as having substance abuse and addiction issues, as well as legal issues associated with substance abuse. It is very common for anyone whom suffers from addiction to experience legal trouble.

21^st Century society is plagued with pressures. Media influence has extended far beyond the tabloids in the aisles of the grocery store. Kids, teens and adults alike are all bombarded with messages intended to influence perception of the way in which they should live their lives. It is essential to recognize that there is nothing glamorous, romantic or admirable about substance abuse and/or addiction. What may begin as stress-relief (“self-medicating”) or a surge of pleasure/numbness quickly metastasizes into a downward self-destructive spiral. Addiction ruins lives.

Where Should You Turn if You are Suffering from Addiction?
 Self-Empowerment NH, LLC specializes in working with families suffering from substance abuse issues and has supported a number of individuals whom suffer from even the most severe of addictions. Through both individual counseling and family counseling; Selfempnh is here to serve as an empathetic, confidential and non-judgmental support system.

For more information about counseling and group services and/or presentations regarding Substance Abuse in Youth and in the Workplace, 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.

"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

How the Rise of Amphetamine Abuse in Australia Affects Us Here in New Hampshire and What You Need to Know About Amphetamine and Methamphetamine

How the Rise of Amphetamine Abuse in Australia Affects Us Here in New Hampshire and What You Need to Know About Amphetamine and Methamphetamine

According to Australia’s largest rehabilitation service, Sydney’s Odyssey House, for the first time in history Amphetamine abuse is the number one problem for people seeking treatment for drug addiction. Drugs like Heroin and Cocaine remain prevalent, but Amphetamine abuse cases are now larger in number.

Ten years ago, Heroin was the most prevalent drug of choice rehabilitation facilities in Australia encountered. However, the last ten years brought a decrease in Heroin supply and abuse, as well as a frightening rise in popularity of Amphetamine abuse. Other drugs that Sydney’s Odyssey House notes a rise in use include; “speed”, “ice” and “ecstasy”.

Select Odyssey House employees have associated the rise in Amphetamine abuse with a decrease in Heroin availability. According to the organization’s chief executive, James Pitt, in reference to the decrease in Heroin abuse and increase in Amphetamine abuse, “That has a lot to do with some of the interventions by The United States over in Afghanistan, who produces almost 90% of the Opium which produces Heroin,” he said, “It is because of the reduction in Heroin availability that Amphetamines have replaced that.”

How does Amphetamine Abuse Affect Us in New Hampshire?

The Odyssey House may be all the way in Australia, but Sydney is not the only place affected by a rise in Amphetamine abuse, Amphetamine being a close relative to “Meth” or Methamphetamine. According to Methpedia.org, a site dedicated to “Meth” or Methamphetamine prevention, tools and resources; there has been a rise in the availability in Methamphetamine within the state of New Hampshire. This substance is often produced in Mexico and transported into the state via express mail packages and private vehicles.

It is important to note that contrary to popular belief, Amphetamine and Methamphetamine are not the same. Methamphetamine and Amphetamine are both psycho-stimulants which increase the ability for one to remain awake. However, one large difference between the two drugs is that when used properly, Amphetamine can be quite useful and is often utilized to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). When abused, Amphetamine can cause serious health problems, some of which include; speeding up the metabolism to a level that can harm the human heart, dry mouth, shallow and rapid breathing, constipation, arrhythmia, dizziness, shaking and insomnia. Other side effects include the dissipation of such essential components of one’s life as; relationships, careers, prized possessions, pride, self-esteem and one’s sense of self, identity and sanity.

In comparing Amphetamine and Methamphetamine, (“Amph” and “Meth”), it may be noted that “Meth” actually breaks down into Amphetamine inside the human body. The main difference between the two substances is that the drugs are processed differently, and the way in which the two interact within the body differ. Another name for Amphetamine is Methylated Phenylethylamine.

When abused, Amphetamine is an addictive substance and Methamphetamine is known to be highly addictive. Those whom suffer from addiction of either of these substances are highly encouraged to seek professional support. Addiction counseling has been highly effective for many individuals seeking addiction recovery from Amphetamine, Methamphetamine and many other addictive drugs.

What Should You Do if You are Struggling from Addiction to Amphetamine, Methamphetamine or Both?

Self-Empowerment NH, LLC specializes in working with families suffering from substance abuse issues and has supported a number of individuals whom suffer from addiction to both Amphetamines and Methamphetamines. Through both individual counseling and family counseling; Selfempnh is here to serve as an empathetic, confidential and non-judgmental support system. 

For more information about counseling and group services and/or presentations regarding Substance Abuse in Youth and in the Workplace, 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.

Sources:

·         Methpedia.org/new-hampshire

·         ABC News- http://abc.net.au/news/2013-12-23/more-people-seeking-help-for-amphetamine-addiction/S171926