Category: International

Dabbling with illegal drugs is seen by many young adults to be the ‘done’ thing, others consider experimenting with a variety of illicit substances as a rite of passage into adulthood.

If only they understood the brutal reality and devastating effects these illegal substances can create it would immediately be apparent just how completely uncool they really are.

Let’s take a look at why many are tempted to try drugs in the first place, why they are so addictive, and how they can leave your life in limbo unless professional rehab services are called upon.

Peer pressure:

The group of friends you hang out with can bring enormous benefits. You will have similar interests, be with people who think along the same lines, have someone to confide in when others do not seem to understand (think parents and teachers!), have fun times together, and build friendships that last a lifetime.

While all of this is extremely positive, there is one negative aspect of this union that comes in the form of peer pressure. There will be times that you feel forced to changed your attitude or behaviour in certain situations. This will be against your better judgement, but will be done out of the need to conform.

The last thing you want is to fall out with them, or feel left out. This means there will be occasions you agree to do or try something that in the normal scheme of things would never have entered your mind.

An example of this is drug experimentation. If one of your group declares they have managed to ‘score’ some illegal drugs and urges the others to share them and sample the experience on offer there is a good chance that several of your group will be ‘up for it’. Even though you are not, you will agree simply to ‘go with the flow’.

The majority will get through this experience without any lasting effects, but there is a chance that others will have unwittingly unlocked a door in their mind. This door strongly associates drug use with pleasurable feelings that need to be repeated.

Your body and mind – A hidden hunger for effects offered:

It is vital to understand just how addictive illegal substances are. You will not realise it beforehand, but your body and mind readily accept the initial ‘highs’ on offer, and once they get a ‘taste’ for these feelings they will hunger for more. Feeding this hunger by popping another pill, snorting a line or smoking whatever is on offer comes at a price:

Tolerance:

Your body and mind are extremely quick on the uptake. They like what you are feeding it and will happily accept more. This is not a passive process. Powerful thoughts and feelings will be fuelled by the urge to ‘have another go’.

The more you use, the more you will want and the greater your tolerance becomes. Because of this increased tolerance the body and mind demand more of the same in order to achieve the same high as previously enjoyed.

This never ending, constantly increasing hunger cannot be satisfied. It makes increased and heavier drug use a given.

But surely I can quit whenever I want:

If that were the case life would be a different story, but the millions upon millions of men and women the world over who are now addicted to their drug(s) of choice will tell you a very different story.

You will continually chase previous highs, your thoughts, desire and needs for more become stronger and what was once occasional use will turn into regular use.

Strong, two-pronged resistance:

Trying to cease drug use abruptly will be met with a strong, two-pronged resistance. The body will ache, you will feel rundown, lethargic and have little interest in things that used to please.

Your mind is quick to back these feelings up by strong and ever increasing urges for more and will present you with the obvious, ideal solution; have just one more hit!

By surrendering to this burning desire you will follow it by another and then another. The result is that your inevitable spiral into drug dependence will spins ever faster.

A point where the choice of using drugs or resisting the urges for more will quickly be reached. Once it is, the overriding feelings and thoughts you have lead in one direction only; continued and increased use.

Life is for living – Do NOT be afraid to seek professional assistance:

Whether you are at the early stage of feeling an increased desire to use drugs on a more regular basis, or already feel use has grown out of all proportion it is vital that you do not continue to ignore and deny these feelings.

Completely confidential professional help is available in the form of drug rehabilitation services. You should not hesitate, or be afraid to contact a drug counsellor. Many will already have been through, and successfully kicked a drug habit. They know where you are coming from.

They will offer sound, sensible advice without judgement. They are there to help, they want to help, and will offer solutions and associated treatment. This support coupled with determination and desire will allow you to work towards a future that is drug free and a life that really is worth living.

Cocaine goes by many street names. A few examples are; Coke, Snow, Toot, White and Charlie. Whatever ID you give this drug it should be made very clear that it is one of the most highly addictive drugs on the planet.

Three common forms:

While freebase and crack are both highly addictive forms of the drug, powder cocaine is still seen by millions the world over as the most ‘acceptable’ form of purchase and use.

We will concentrate on the powder form and explain why it is so ‘moreish’, and why many find the idea of ‘knocking another line up’ comes knocking on their brain more and more often until the need to feed that cocaine habit becomes insatiable.

Strength is the luck of the draw:

Do not believe any dealer that tells you the wrap in your pocket is guaranteed to be potently powerful. This is because the drug is mixed with a wide variety of substances including lidocaine which is used for its numbing effect.

Such an effect tricks the user into thinking the deal they have just scored is far stronger than it really is.

Highly stimulating:

Charlie is a very powerful stimulant that gives a very pleasant high. Users regularly report a sense of euphoria, of feeling on top of the world and bursting with confidence. It also lowers inhibitions which means that an ‘anything goes attitude’ can become the norm.

While all of this sounds positive it must be understood that the major effects received from a line of Charlie wear off anywhere between 30 minutes and 2 hours after the last snort.

The obvious answer to the lowering of these feelings is to knock another couple of lines up. At the time this solution seems like the most natural thing in the world to do. Users will continue to snort on while partying or socialising without comprehension or care of the clock.

Highly addictive:

Your mind and body take to cocaine with ease. They find the effects very pleasing indeed. They also quickly build up a tolerance to the drug. As this tolerance increases so does your dependence.

The problem with this tolerance is that to achieve similarly expected highs to previous ones a user needs to take more of the same. This continual increase of use is speeding your slippery slide into cocaine addiction.

Becoming dependent upon any drug means that a person cannot function normally without it. It also means that if they abruptly stop use then some pretty nasty withdrawal symptoms will let them know of the fact in no uncertain terms.

Withdrawal symptoms:

The good news is there are no physical withdrawal symptoms associated to withdrawing from cocaine such as nausea, body cramps or shaking that are common to those withdrawing from alcohol or methamphetamine.

The bad news is there are some severe psychological withdrawal symptoms that can last for many months after a user has quit the drug.

Initial symptoms include feelings of intense tiredness and a constant weariness that affects both the mind and body. Anxiety, irritability, mood swings and depression are all par for the course while many will also suffer overly from agitation, increased suspicion and paranoia.

One withdrawal symptom common to all:

Every person who has become dependent upon cocaine and attempts to stop use abruptly will suffer from one very powerful withdrawal symptom. That is an extremely intense and powerful craving for more cocaine.

It is this craving that will generally break the resistance of those trying to quit the drug without professional rehabilitation assistance.

Continued use of Charlie will break you in more ways than one:

We stated at the beginning of this piece just how addictive cocaine is. This fact should not be underestimated by anyone.

Continued and increased use will empty your bank balance, destroy relationships and distance you from friends.

Another unwanted outcome can become a frightening reality. If, like many coke addicts you combine this drug with alcohol and/or other illicit substances there is a very good chance that it will put you in the mortuary long before your time.

Don’t let it destroy your life:

The slide into cocaine addiction can be a rapid one. If you find your use is increasing on a far too regular basis, and you have tried quitting yourself but failed, please take the brave and sensible step of contacting a rehab establishment to discuss with one of their knowledgeable councillors exactly what treatment is available.

It won’t be an easy journey out of addiction, but it is an eminently achievable one that has seen millions of men and women come through cocaine dependence stronger, more determined and wiser.

Sex addiction is a very real condition. It requires serious and complex treatment if those suffering are to bring their compulsive sexual behaviour under control.

What most people think of sex addiction:

It is easy to understand why the majority of people will raise a smile or make some lewd comment if the subject of sex addicts is brought into the conversation.

They imagine sexy, scantily clad men and women available and willing to have sex at the drop of a hat, or cavorting nakedly while moving from partner to partner and having a thoroughly good time in terms of constant sexual experiences.

Because they do not understand the psychological and life affecting challenges those with this condition have they can only assume it must be a rather exciting addiction to ‘suffer’ from, when the reality is far removed.

What sex addiction is not:

It is very important to understand that those who have a healthy libido and enjoy regular and varied sex sessions are not sex addicts. Indeed, a healthy sex life is part and parcel of a happy and satisfying life.

When you feel comfortable with a partner, sexual experimentation will become something you are willing to participate in, and will discover many different ways of giving and receiving sexual pleasure. Such activity works to build stronger, more loving relationships.

What sex addiction is:

By its nature sex addiction is not an easy thing for others to identify. This is for a whole variety of reasons and the fact that a person addicted to sex is certainly not going to shout their admission from the rooftops.

Here are 5 signs to be considered if you feel the thoughts and actions of your sexual activities are taking over your life.

Constantly thinking about sex:

Those addicted to sex have constant, chronic and obsessive sexual thoughts as well as fantasies that are way beyond the realms of normality.

Such thoughts will simmer in their mind and very frequently burst to the surface leading them to:

Sex with multiple partners:

Sex addicts thrive on the thoughts and desires of having sex with multiple partners. This can either be individually, one after the other, becoming involved in group sex sessions and making it known to complete strangers that sex is the only thing on their agenda during a chance meeting.

It is known that many sex addicts will actually go to completely new places in their attempts to attract strangers for frequent sex sessions. Once such a conquest is complete they are already moving on and thinking of their next sexual association.

Placing themselves in danger:

It goes without saying that making it clear to complete strangers that you are immediately interested in sex is a risky business. This is from a violence perspective as well as the greatly increased potential of sexually transmitted diseases.

Accomplished liars:

It is the nature of a sex addict to become expert at lying. If they are in a relationship they will need to cover their tracks when late home or absent for long periods. It is also well known that most prostitutes do not take credit cards, so they need to have explanations ready as to what cash has been used for.

If single they would never dream of admitting to regular partners how many others they are having sex with, or the fact that as soon as this liaison is over they will be heading for the next one.

Illegal sexual activity:

While using the services of a prostitute is certainly not the biggest crime in the world many sex addicts have such strong desires that it leads them to far more serious activities such as having sex with minors, interfering with children, or using animals to satisfy their sexual cravings.

Complex treatment for a complex condition:

Addiction in general is treated by the addict committing to kicking their habit once and for all. Drug and Alcohol addictions are good examples of this.

This is obviously not possible with sex addiction as a person cannot be expected to forgo sexual activity for the rest of their lives.

What this means is that in-depth counselling sessions are required to help those struggling with sex addiction to re-learn what is classed as normal sexual behaviour as opposed to obsessive behaviour.

There is no quick fix to help a sex addict, although medication can often assist during such treatment. It is also felt that an extended inpatient stay at a rehabilitation centre is the most positive way for those with compulsive sexual behavioural issues to begin healing which will help put this damaging condition behind them.

There are far more articles about drugs, their effects, what damage addicts are doing to themselves, and treatment options available than there are about what it is like for those living with an addict.

Those going through the day to day uncertainty which is part and parcel of living with an addict need sympathy, support and knowledge.

Below we will look at this heartbreaking problem from various angles, see what steps can be taken to alleviate the stress, worry and angst for those affected, and why rehabilitation services must be used to help all concerned.

Unaware of how readily available illegal drugs are:

This point mainly relates to elderly parents and those parents who were not associated with drugs during their youth and into adulthood. Their lack of comprehension on drug availability today is completely understandable.

Drugs can be purchased with ease, there are street dealers, drug houses and venues such as clubs, concerts and festivals where drugs are a given part of the fabric.

Many without knowledge of the ease of access to illicit drugs assume it is inner-city areas that are rife with drug purchasing opportunities. While this is true they also need to understand that upmarket housing areas and wealthy suburbs are certainly not immune.

Drug gangs target those with means and money:

The ruthless drug gangs who operate multi-million dollar operations are not in the business for the fun of it. They understand exactly how addictive drugs are, and the more people they target, the bigger their profit.

Drugs are also relatively cheap to purchase; in the beginning. But once a person gets a ‘taste’ for their drug of choice the cost climbs exponentially.

This results in those with few funds turning to crime or prostitution in order to feed their habit, while those with money or living with a family that is relatively well off will dig into savings, or use whatever cash they can get from parents in order to continue their drug purchasing.

One partner becomes more partial:

It is not uncommon for couples living together to share the enjoyment of using drugs on an occasional basis, perhaps when celebrating events with friends of similar ages, hitting a club for a wild night out or attending an all-day music festival.

The problem here is when one partner becomes far more partial to drug use than the other. They will begin to increase drug use when not in the presence of the other, and individual dependence will grow.

This leads to taking drugs in secret, longer than normal absences from home while they are scoring and taking drugs, and money unaccounted for from joint income.

If this happens it is sure to lead to friction between the couple because the one who is using more heavily will be in constant denial, the other will become suspicious, angry and disillusioned with their partner’s attitude and the state of their relationship.

Common signs:

There are many signs that a person is slipping into deeper drug dependence. Mood swings are common. One minute they are up and happy, the next down, uncommunicative and unresponsive.

Regular meals take a back seat as many drugs suppress appetite and the last thing on an addict’s mind is a good, healthy meal. Glazed eyes, pupils that are overly large or look like pinpricks are common, and a deterioration in general appearance should be looked out for.

If money or valuables begin to disappear this is a sign that the addict is now in a desperate drug cycle. They need a fix, they need it now, and whatever they can use to fund a purchase will be taken.

Steps not to take:

The completely natural step to take if you suspect a loved one of heavy drugs use is to fly off the handle and scream angry threats. While this is totally understandable it is not the way to go.

This will only lead to the addict reinforcing their denial, retreating into their shell and increasing their drug use.

The truth is, deep down they know the damage they are causing but their dependence on drugs is currently far stronger that their will to stop using.

Steps that should be taken:

For those who have little knowledge of drugs the first step is to educate themselves on general facts about illicit substances. Understand how easy it is to become dependent because of the highly addictive effects drugs have on the mind and body.

Learn about common signs and actions of those using heavily, and very importantly understand what steps can be taken to help them.

If you are aware of a particular drug that is becoming all-consuming for your partner, then take in as much knowledge as possible as to why and what can be done to help.

Armed with facts and treatment options:

Once you are armed with facts it is then time to sit down with your loved one and calmly explain that you are aware of their drug problem. Do NOT take denial as an answer, tell them that they need professional help and that you will be with them every step of the way.

Initially they may well be reluctant to admit their dependence. Not because they want to defy you. It is down to fear. Many are petrified at the thought of how they will cope without their regular hit, they also fear some fairly painful withdrawal symptoms which are part and parcel of kicking a drug habit.

Perseverance and support:

You must persevere, point out the steps to be taken which will help them kick a habit that is destroying their lives and causing you untold, undeserved and unwanted anguish.

Phone or make an appointment with a professional rehab establishment, understand what services are offered and persuade your loved one that you will make an appointment on their behalf and take them to the appointment.

Recovery will not be an overnight event, but it is achievable. If after consultation an inpatient stay at a respectable rehab establishment is recommended, then support this all the way.

Your support will be a major influence on the recovery of someone you care for dearly, and once they are healed it is hoped the bonds between you will become even stronger.

There are countless ways for men and women to have an occasional flutter. Millions enjoy this pastime at sensible levels with associated stakes. However, these gambling galore opportunities have a darker side that leads many to become addicted.

Stereotype of a gambling addict:

There is not one! Gambling addicts can be male or female, although the majority are men. Age has no real say in it; those addicted come from all age groups, but more people develop this dependency during their 20’s and 30’s.

Gambling addiction is certainly not racist, it welcomes those of any nationality, colour or creed with betting slips waiting to be filled and different coloured chips of every amount waiting to be placed on the next ‘dead cert’.

Where does addiction begin?

Again, this is a very difficult thing to pinpoint because there are lots of different start points and triggers.

Some become addicted because their initial good fortune turns sour. They see this ‘temporary’ downturn in their luck as a mere blip and respond by gambling more heavily. This spiral into addiction quickly becomes a constant and futile attempt to turnaround their fortunes.

Some begin gambling because it is an effective distraction to personal or relationship difficulties, while many get deeper into dependency due to the constant and intense thrill they feel when placing that bet which is ‘sure’ to win them huge sums of money or generous prizes.

Gambling galore with very few restrictions:

Many governments across the world allow people to place a bet on whatever they wish, whenever they wish. If the bookmakers or casinos in that country will accept the bet then it is laid, but the laying of such bets is always at odds that are stacked in their favour.

The extensive range of gambling opportunities available, and the ever increasing rise in online gambling services is simply serving to increase the number of people who have and will fall foul to full-blown gambling addiction.

Unwanted consequences:

Financial ruin is an obvious, unwanted consequence for those addicted to gambling, but a whole raft of other potential issues are part and parcel of this problem.

Relationships with partners and family members will suffer, losing far more than you are winning puts a strain on your physical and mental health. Examples of this are the fact that anxiety, stress and depression are all part of a gambling addict’s make-up.

Performance at work can often take second place. This is because of the addict’s constant distractions relating to which of the day’s gambling galore opportunities will dig them out of the red financial hole they are currently sinking into.

Many become so desperate for money to ease their financial woes, and to maintain their habit that crime is often a vehicle used in an attempt to get them out of the mire. In this respect fraud or attempted fraud tops the list.

Does anyone care?

Non-gamblers have very little sympathy for those addicted. Bookmakers and casino operators will lose no sleep over the fact that their gain is your demise.

If your debts become insurmountable and family possessions or property have to be sold this quite naturally leaves a very bitter taste in everyone’s mouth.

While such sentiments are understandable, many without sympathy do not realise that those affected are actually suffering from a serious addictive disorder.

This medically classified condition displays many signs that are present in those with substance addictions.

It therefore follows that those who cannot resist the gambling galore opportunities which surround them must seek treatment as a matter of urgency.

What type of treatment is available?

Rehabilitation centers have been treating those with compulsive gambling tendencies for many years.

The majority base their treatment around in-depth counselling sessions that major on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), step-based programs such as the 12-step model that has long been adopted by the voluntary fellowship support group Gamblers Anonymous, and motivational interviewing techniques.

These forms of treatments are employed to help the addict understand and accept the issues their gambling is causing, to find ways of counteracting such impulses, and also strongly promote relapse prevention.

A difficult disorder to overcome but it can be achieved:

The opportunities for gambling galore are on the increase, those who are suffering from what is currently an unstoppable urge to gamble must accept they have a very complex disorder to deal with.

Overcoming this addiction requires qualified, professional rehab assistance with an emphasis on spending inpatient time at a well-established rehabilitation establishment.

Gambling addicts should also take full advantage of their local voluntary organisations, and consider consulting ‘online peers’ who have been in the dark place compulsive gambling creates and have successfully overcome their obsession.

The road to a future which is free from the devastating effects compulsive gambling bring is certainly not an easy one, but it is one that must be taken if you are to get your life back on track.

Acceptance, determination and a desire to beat this ruinous addiction should go hand in hand with professional rehabilitation services that will eventually allow you to declare “All bets are now off”.