Overcoming New Hampshire’s Drinking Culture: Why You Should Stop Drinking and What You Can Do Instead

Overcoming New Hampshire’s Drinking Culture: Why You Should Stop Drinking and What You Can Do Instead

Have you ever felt like you needed to drink to have fun? How many times have you found yourself drinking more than you should have because friends around you were drinking? Have you ever drunk alcohol because, frankly, you were bored and had nothing else to do? According to ‘24/7 Wall Street’, New Hampshire has the highest per capita alcohol consumption of all 50 United States. Translation: people in the Granite State drink a whole lot of alcohol, and just because it is legal when over the age of twenty one, it does not mean it is healthy or a good choice.

How Bad Can Alcohol Really Be… I Mean, It’s Legal Right?

             Damage to the Brain-Alcohol consumption can cause blackouts, poor judgment, slowed reflexes, distorted vision, a loss of coordination, memory lapses.

Personality Changes- Drinking can lead to risky behaviors, such as driving when you shouldn’t, or having unprotected sex.

Cancer- Alcohol consumption is associated with a higher risk of many different Cancers, whether long or short term.

Hangovers- Is it really worth the headaches, fatigue, nausea, muscle aches, mood disturbances and blood-shot eyes?

Waste of Money- Ever paid for an alcoholic drink at a bar or restaurant. No further explanation needed.

Dependence- While some individuals are at a higher risk of Alcohol Dependence, any individual could potentially become an Alcoholic.

Empty Calories-  There are no nutritional benefits of alcoholic drinks and a standard beer, glass of wine or shot of liquor contains about 150 calories.

Death- Each year, individuals from all social classes, age groups and of both genders die from binge drinking (alcohol poisoning).

 

What Can I Do Besides Drink?

· Rethink Your Friend Group- It is Friday night and it has been a long week. You are looking to let off some steam and get together with friends. You call up Sally, text Bill, email George. They are all headed to the bar and know they will be buying rounds until they can no longer state their own name, but you are trying to refrain from too much drinking because you know that Alcoholism runs in your family and hate to spend your Saturday with an excruciating headache. You certainly do not want to spend the night alone at home, no matter how much you love your cat. So what is the solution?

When you were a kid, your parents told you to choose your friends wisely. Guess what? That still applies as an adult. In order to live a healthy lifestyle which is not centered around polluting your liver and damaging your sense of reasoning, choose friends who do not center their lives around alcohol. The people you meet when you are at the bar who describe themselves as “regulars” are more than likely not the individuals you want to add to your immediate friends circle.

· Get More Active- Research shows that people who live active lifestyles are both healthier and happier than those who do not. The trick is finding active activities that you enjoy and will actually engage it without it feeling like a chore. Depending on what appeals to you, you can try joining a gym, swimming, going for a long walk, bike riding, kayaking, skateboarding, motorcycle riding, or dancing.

· Get Creative- Engaging in creative activities is incredibly therapeutic for the human brain. Depending on your interests, you may try; taking a class on languages or art, learning to play an instrument, making a meal from scratch, developing your own recipe and cooking it for friends or family, painting a picture, re-painting a room in your home, scrapbooking, writing or look up DIY projects on Pinterest that interest you.

Other ideas:

·         Visit a zoo or museum, (there are many in New Hampshire and Massachusetts which are reasonably priced and both interesting and educational)

·         See a movie

·         Get some coffee at your favorite coffee shop

·         Attend a play at a local high school

·         Walk around the mall

·         Read a book

·         Play a board-game with family or friends, (You could even organize a “Board-game Party” where friends and family bring their favorite games to play and eat a Pot Luck Dinner)

·         Plant a flower or tree

·         Volunteer at a local food bank or shelter

·         Write a letter to a far away relative

·         Organize your photos

·         Call an old friend

·         Organize a baseball or volleyball game with friends or co-workers

·         Clean out a closet at home

·         Take a bath

·         Look through old yearbooks

·         Study the history of your town

·         Visit the Humane Society

·         Go to the library

·         Have a picnic

·         Plan your dream vacation

I Am Suffering from Addiction to Alcohol and/or Other Drugs! Where Can I Turn?

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.

Sources:

http://247wallst.com/special-report/2012/10/10/states-that-drink-the-most-beer/

http://www.livestrong.com/article/108890-reasons-shouldnt-drink-alcohol/

New Hampshire House Rejects Marijuana Legalization: What You May Not Know About the Dangers of Marijuana

 New Hampshire House Rejects Marijuana Legalization: What You May Not Know About the Dangers of Marijuana

Marijuana is not the equivalent of Heroin. Nor Cocaine. Nor Methamphetamine. Marijuana is not known for physical dependence, nor will an unlaced joint cause death to a person of average health. However, it cannot be argued that Marijuana use is not healthy in a number of ways; and many feel that legalization of Cannabis may not be good for our society either.

On March 26, 2014, New Hampshire’s House killed a bill which would have legalized up to one ounce of Marijuana with the intention of recreational use for those 21 years of age and over. Having gained preliminary approval in the House with a 170-140 vote with a request for committee review, it was determined that legalized commercial sales of this drug could be a large cause for concern. The end result was a 192-140 House vote against the proposed bill.

There are Good Arguments Behind Legalization

Self-empowerment NH, LLC in no way endorses drug use. That is a fact. However, we do agree that there are solid arguments behind the legalization of Marijuana. One reason is that such a bill would provide certain protections in regards to the contents of the drug. “Lacing”, (including additional chemicals or drugs with or without the consumer’s knowledge) would be less prevalent, an issue which causes serious health issues and may even cause death. There is also the argument that other dangerous drugs like alcohol and tobacco are legal, thus making it difficult to rationalize the individuals behind bars as a result of Cannabis sales or use.

But Here’s What People Don’t Think About…

Marijuana is not harmless. Regardless of the results of future legalization efforts and the decisions based on de-criminalization of this substance, there are factors that all individuals should keep in mind.

1.)    According to Dr. Drew Pinsky, an individual whom has been working with addicts for decades, there are populations of people with genetic potential for addiction. Despite arguments that Marijuana is not addictive, Dr. Pinsky argues that categorizing Marijuana as a non-addictive substance could be considered malpractice, and that many people who smoke Marijuana regularly have a difficult time quitting this habit.

2.)    Studies show that regular Marijuana users experience impairment in memory, learning and attention, even when use has been discontinued for twenty-four hours. Impaired motor coordination was also noted.

3.)    Marijuana significantly effects brain development. Translation: youth exposure to Cannabis could cause the brain to not develop to its full potential and could put a serious kink in the success of the next generation, (our planet’s future).

4.)    According to Dr. Dan Brookoff of the New England Journal of Medicine, 45% of reckless drivers not impaired by Alcohol tested positive for Marijuana. This brings up the frightening reality that a rise in Marijuana use could lead to an increase in injuries and deaths associated with motor vehicle accidents.

5.)    It has been argued that Marijuana may be a closer relative of such drugs as Heroin, Cocaine and Alcohol than many may think, as Marijuana activates the same pleasure centers in the brain as such drugs.

6.)    There are a number of physiological effects associated with Cannabis, to include Anxiety, panic attacks and/or paranoia.

7.)    Benzopyrene is the chemical in Tobacco that causes Lung Cancer and an average Marijuana cigarette contains nearly 50% more Benzopyrene than a Tobacco cigarette.

8.)    Heavy Marijuana use can affect hormone levels in both females and males.

9.)    Marijuana can affect the immune system and its ability to fight disease/illness.

Are You or Someone You Know Addicted to Drugs and/or Alcohol and Need Somewhere to Turn?

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, 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.

Scared for Our Kids: Rise in Youth Substance Abuse Numbers Concern New England Parents

Scared for Our Kids: Rise in Youth Substance Abuse Numbers Concern New England Parents

Substance abuse and addiction issues exist all around the world, and New England has certainly never been exempt from such trends. However, the law enforcement employed within New England states have been increasingly overwhelmed by rising numbers of substance abuse related crimes and incidents. Substance abuse issues exist in all populations,  but has become especially prevalent in youth.

In his state of address last week, Maine Republican Governor Paul LePage stated, “We must confront a troubling epidemic. It’s tearing at the social fabric of our communities. We are losing the war on drugs.”

Lepage requested the addition of an additional fourteen drug enforcement agents to the team of thirty two, four drug prosecutors and four judges to serve exclusively in special drug courts.

On the New Hampshire front, law enforcement has expressed that the largest issue they are facing is Heroin. According to The Associated Press, at least 61 people died of Heroin overdoses in New Hampshire in 2013, compared with 38 the previous year.

In a New Hampshire State address, Hassan stated, “New Hampshire has among the highest rates in the country of drug and alcohol abuse and dependence but ranks at the bottom in accessing treatment. We must focus on improving access to treatment for all substances, especially among our young people.”

So what does this increase in substance abuse trends and larger supplies of dangerous illegal drugs mean for New England families?  Parents are worried about their kids. And they should be.

“I am worried about my child experimenting with drugs and alcohol or have suspicions that abuse is already occurring. What can I do to stop this?”

According to The National Crime Prevention Council, the main reason that kids do not use tobacco, alcohol or drugs is because of their parents. Here are some ways in which parents can work to prevent youth substance abuse:

Ø  Bring back family dinner-Americans are busy people, (sports, activities, homework, work, you name it…). However, research shows that parents sitting down to eat with their children at least a few times a week serves as a means to facilitate stronger relationships and effective communication.

Ø  Ask quality questions- Most parents have asked their child a question only to be given a one word answer. Practice asking your child quality questions, open ended questions in which a one word or yes or no answer will not suffice.

Ø  Listen with a non-judgmental ear- If your child approaches you with something or answers a question in an unexpected way, practice responding non-judgmentally. Focus on the fact that your child felt comfortable coming to you and recognize the importance of maintaining an open line of communication.

Ø  Know your child’s friends- Peer influences are a large indicator of whether or not your child will experiment with drugs and alcohol. Always know where your children are, what your children are doing and with whom they are with.

Where Should You Turn if You or Your Child 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(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:

Ø  http://www.ncpc.org/topics/drug-abuse/alcohol-tobacco-and-other-drugs

Ø  http://www.rutlandherald.com/article/20140210/THISJUSTIN/702109970/0/FRONTPAGE

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Heroin Robs Us of Philip Seymour Hoffman: The Frightening Reality of Substance Abuse and Overdose

Heroin Robs Us of Philip Seymour Hoffman: The Frightening Reality

of Substance Abuse and Overdose

On February 2, 2014, Hollywood and Broadway lost an exceptionally talented actor, Philiph Seymour Hoffman, to an overdose on the drug Heroin. Hoffman was highly respected, having won the Academy Award for Best Actor in the 2005 biographical film Capote, nominated three times for Best Supporting Actor and having received three Tony Award nominations for his work in theater. One might ask; how could such a talented, successful and obviously intelligent individual suffer such a death from a drug as publicly detrimental as Heroin? However, Hoffman is just one example of how even the most successful and highly-respected individuals are affected by the down-ward spiral of Heroin addiction.

In a 2011 interview with “60 Minutes”, Philip Seymour Hoffman expressed that he had struggled with substance abuse and drug and alcohol addiction in the past, but had fought this addiction. However, the power of addiction overcame Hoffman. By the beginning of 2014, Hoffman was back to his old habits. He was found unresponsive on February 2, 2014 and the cause of death was ruled to be Heroin overdose.

As an MLADC, it is difficult to come to terms with the fact that Hoffman could have been saved. Had he received adequate care and support, he may still be on the big screen today. It is too late for Hoffman. However, when it comes to others whom are suffering from Heroin addiction, (and there are many), it is not too late.

Years ago, before having entered the field of Substance Abuse Counseling, I did not think Heroin was common. I certainly did not think of Heroin as having a large role in the lives of many individuals within the state of New Hampshire. However, I now recognize the prevalence of this drug and the power it holds over individuals whom struggle with addiction.

Often, addiction to Heroin begins with the use of pain-killers or other Opiates. Since Opiates are highly addictive and very expensive, addicted individuals in “needing to get their fix” turn to Heroin. The effects of Heroin are similar to that of pain-killers and other Opiates at a significantly lower price. In other words, users do not often begin by injecting Heroin into their veins. Such methods are commonly taken after an individual’s body, mind and spirit are taken over by their drug of choice, often after having used the substance in pill form. The focus becomes getting their fix no matter the consequence.

Philip Seymour Hoffman is not the first celebrity to have passed away as a result of a drug overdose. Such individuals as Heath Ledger, Anna Nicole Smith, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis, Janis Joplin and Kurt Cobain were also noted as having deceased as a result of drug addiction. And as for “non-celebrities” whom have deceased as a result of a drug addiction? Millions.

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.

Sources:

Ø  http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/05/showbiz/philip-seymour-hoffman-death/

"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