Web-based interventions Proven Effective in Treating Substance Abuse and Reducing Relapse Rates

A new study in the American Journal Of Psychiatry (Volume 171, Issue 6, June 2014) shows that incorporating a web-based educational intervention in the treatment of drug abuse can not only help people stop using drugs, but can also keep them in treatment longer.

TES is a web-based version of the Community Reinforcement Approach plus Contingency Management, a packaged approach with demonstrated efficacy.  The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the NIH, funded this study.

TES consists of 62 interactive modules that teach patients how to achieve and maintain abstinence from drug use and includes prize-based motivational incentives to encourage adherence to treatment.  Patients given TES were less likely to drop out of treatment than those in the control group.  Also, the web-based intervention helped patients stay abstinent from drug use, even those who were not abstinent at the beginning of the study.  With such findings, web-based interventions like TES are promising additions to drug abuse treatment.

This approach, which combines skills-oriented counseling and contingency management in an Internet-delivered behavioral intervention, produced high rates of abstinence from drugs and heavy drinking among patients with a good prognosis (those who entered the study with positive urine drug or breath alcohol screen) but doubled the likelihood of abstinence among patients with an otherwise poor prognosis.

Computer-delivered interventions have the potential to improve access to quality addiction treatment care. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Therapeutic Education System (TES), an Internet-delivered behavioral intervention that includes motivational incentives, as a clinician-extender in the treatment of substance use disorders.

Adult men and women (N=507) entering 10 outpatient addiction treatment programs were randomly assigned to receive 12 weeks of either treatment as usual (N=252) or treatment as usual plus TES, with the intervention substituting for about 2 hours of standard care per week (N=255).

TES consists of 62 computerized interactive modules covering skills for achieving and maintaining abstinence, plus prize-based motivational incentives contingent on abstinence and treatment adherence. Treatment as usual consisted of individual and group counseling at the participating programs. The primary outcome measures were abstinence from drugs and heavy drinking (measured by twice-weekly urine drug screens and self-report) and time to dropout from treatment.

Compared with patients in the treatment-as-usual group, those in the TES group had a lower dropout rate and a greater abstinence rate. This effect was more pronounced among patients who had a positive urine drug or breath alcohol screen at study entry (N=228).

Internet-delivered interventions such as TES have the potential to expand access and improve addiction treatment outcomes. Additional research is needed to assess effectiveness in non-specialty clinical settings and to differentiate the effects of the community reinforcement approach and contingency management components of TES.

Tom Wilson Counseling Online Alcohol Classes currently uses similar evidenced based practices inclusing cognitive behavioral techniques, motivational enhancement therapy and stages of change theory.

Buzzed Driving IS Drunk Driving - Driver Sober or Get Pulled Over

Presented by Tom Wilson Counseling Center www.tomwilsoncounseling.com

Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving

The Consequences Aren’t Worth the Risk

• According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 32,885 people were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2010. Thirty-one percent (10,228) of those fatalities involved alcohol-impaired drivers.
• Data also shows that 70 percent of alcohol-impaired driving fatalities occurred when the driver’s blood alcohol concentration was .15 grams per deciliter or higher.
• The holiday and summer seasons are particularly dangerous. That’s why Tom Wilson Counseling Center is joining highway safety partners and law enforcement organizations across the nation to remind people throughout the year that Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving and that drinking and driving don’t mix.
• On average, 25 people were killed in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes per day during December 2010. Tom Wilson Counseling Center wants to remind people that drinking and driving can quickly turn a holiday celebration into a tragedy.
• When you drink and drive, you are putting your life and the lives of others at risk. Be responsible, and don’t let your celebrations end in tragedy.
• Getting caught for impaired driving can also result in arrest, loss of driving privileges, higher insurance rates, lost time at work, court costs, fines, and attorney’s fees, and many other unwanted consequences.

You Can Prevent a Tragedy

• Plan ahead; be sure to designate a sober driver before the party begins.
• If you will be drinking, do not plan on driving.  Even one too many drinks increases the risk of a crash while driving a motor vehicle. Remember that, Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.
• If you are impaired, find another way home.  Use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, use public transportation or have a designated driver that is not drinking at all with you.
• Be responsible.  If someone you know is drinking, do not let that person get behind the wheel. If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact law enforcement. Your actions may save someone’s life, and inaction could cost a life.
• Visit www.tomwilsoncounseling.com for online DUI, online Alcohol, online Drug, online Minor in Possession, online Drug Diversion and online Relapse Prevention programs.

For more information on Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving, please visit this fact sheet's sponsor at www.TrafficSafetyMarketing.gov.

Drug and Alcohol Abstinence Enhancement and Relapse Prevention Workshop

Relapse Prevention for Organ Transplant Patients (DAAERP)

This course has been approved by Transplant Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville for meeting requirements of the Shands at UF Organ Transplant Services for drug and alcohol abstinence enhancement and pre-listing relapse prevention workshop.

The below class is a relapse prevention class intended for educational purposes only and not intended as therapy or counseling. The goal of this class is to help patients with medical problems who have been or are currently chemically or alcohol dependent maintain their abstinence.

Drug and Alcohol Abstinence Enhancement and Relapse Prevention Workshop: $150.00

Top Ten Tips for Parents for Preventing Drug Abuse

Top Ten Tips for Parents for Preventing Drug Abuse in their Kids

Before reviewing the Ten Tips for Parents, there are two important points to be aware of:

1. Why is there so much focus on keeping kids alcohol and drug free?
Recent scientific research has found that the longer an individual postpones the onset (first use) of alcohol, tobacco or other drug use, the less likely the individual is to develop an addiction or other lifelong problems, including depression.

2. The Power of Parents: Believe it or not, parents are the most powerful influence on their kids when it comes to drugs. Recent research has found that 2 out of 3 kids ages 13-17 say that losing their parents’ respect is one of the main reasons they don’t drink alcohol, smoke marijuana or use other drugs.
So then, as a parent, what can I do use my influence to encourage or promote prevention efforts with my children? Here are Ten Tips for Parents:

1) Don’t Be Afraid to be the “Bad” Parent: Sometimes, our fear of negative reaction from our kids keeps us from doing what is right. When it comes to alcohol and drugs, taking a tough stand can help our children to say no….“my mom or my dad would kill me if I drank or used.” Our decisions and our rules allow our child to use us as “the reason” for not using alcohol or drugs.

2) Connect With Your Child’s Friends: Pay attention to who your child is hanging out with, who’s coming to the house and get to know them. Encourage your child’s friends to come to your home, invite them for dinner and make them feel welcomed. Encourage your child to invite friends over to the house.

3) Make Connections With Other Parents Too: As you get to know your kids friends, take the opportunity to introduce yourself to his/her parents. It’s a great way to build mutual support and share your rules about alcohol and drugs. And, it will make it easier for you to call if your son/daughter is going to a party at their house to make sure that there will be responsible parental supervision.

4) Promote Healthy Activities: Help your kids, and their friends, learn how to have fun, and fight off the dreaded “I’m bored.” Physical games, activities and exercise are extremely important because of the positive physical and mental benefits. Encourage kids to become engaged in other school and community activities such as music, sports, arts or a part-time job. The more your children are active, the less time they have to get caught up in the pressure from peers to drink alcohol and use drugs.

5) Establish Clear Family Rules About Alcohol and Drugs: Setting specific, clear rules is the foundation for parental efforts in prevention, some ideas:

• Kids under 21 will not drink alcohol
• Kids will not ride in a car with someone who has been drinking or using drugs
• Older brothers and sisters will not encourage younger kids to drink or use drugs
• Kids under 21 will not host parties at our home without parental supervision
• Kids will not stay at a kid’s party where alcohol or drugs are present.
• Consistent enforcement of the rules, with consequences, if needed is essential. Without consequences the rules have no value and will not work.

6) Get Educated About Alcohol and Drugs: You cannot rely on your own personal experiences or common sense to carry you through. Your ability to provide family leadership in prevention requires you to be better educated. Share what you are learning with your spouse and your kids.

7) Be a Role Model and Set a Positive Example: Bottom line…. from a kid’s perspective, what you do is more important than what you say! Research studies show that parents who drink alcohol or use drugs are more likely to have kids who drink or use. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation; if you use medication, use only as directed, and do not use illegal drugs. If you host a party, always serve alternative non-alcoholic beverages and do not let anyone drink and drive.

8) Keep Track of Your Child’s Activities: Asking questions, keeping track, checking in are all important. Research has found that young people who are not regularly monitored by their parents are four times more likely to use alcohol or drugs. Make the time to know what is happening in your child’s life – especially in families where both parents work outside of the home, life is busy but you must find time for your children – know what they are up to!

9) Keep Track of Alcohol and Prescription Drugs: For kids, the most common source of alcohol and prescription drugs is parents. Make sure that your home is not a source of alcohol or prescription drugs for your kids or their friends.

10) Get Help!: If at any point you suspect that your child is having a problem with alcohol and/or drugs (What to Look For), get help. Don’t wait. You are not alone.

Tom Wilson is a Certified Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist who develops online self-help substance abuse prevention classes to reduce the risk for substance abuse in at-risk persons.

Petty Theft Shoplifting Thinking Errors Classes Online for Court Requirements

Online Petty Theft Shoplifting Classes that meet Court Requirements

These online petty theft and shoplifting awareness education classes are for people who are required to complete a theft, shoplifting, stealing, larceny, or petty theft education course to satisfy probation or a court order or recommendation. Approved by courts, judges, attorneys, agencies, probation, parole, colleges, universities, and employers. Get court approval before enrolling for legal requirements.

All classes developed and monitored by Tom Wilson, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is also an Internationally Certified Prevention Specialist. Tom Wilson specializes in adapting evidence-based prevention programs for delivery through the web and other electronic media. Instructor credentials can be viewed here: www.tomwilsoncounseling.com

Contact us at support@twccsolutions.com or call Toll Free 1.877.368.9909 during office hours; Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm MDT/MST with questions. If you call before or after our regular office hours, please leave a message and we will return your call as soon as possible.

www.tomwilsoncounseling.com

Relapse Prevention: From Use to Abuse

Relapse Prevention - What is the difference between Use and Abuse?

Tom Wilson Counseling Center

 

Use: Drugs may be used in a socially accepted or medically sanctioned manner to modify or control mood or state of mind. Examples include having a drink with a friend or taking an anti-anxiety agent for an acute anxiety state in accordance with a physician's prescription.

Substance Misuse: An isolated episode of alcohol or other drug misuse that caused a problem in health, legal, job, social, emotional or other areas of your life. Examples include drinking too much at a New Year's Eve party but have not experienced any other problems in the last year.

Substance Abuse: Defined as having more than one problem from use in the last 12 months, i.e. legal, financial, marital, work, health, or psychological problems as a result of use.

Addiction: Characterized by the repeated, compulsive seeking or use of a substance despite adverse social, psychological and/or physical consequences. A wide range of substances, both legal and illegal, can be addictive. Addiction is often (but not always) accompanied by physical dependence, a withdrawal syndrome and tolerance. Physical dependence is defined as a physiologic state of adaptation to a substance, the absence of which produces symptoms and signs of withdrawal.

Withdrawal: Withdrawal syndrome consists of a predictable group of signs and symptoms resulting from abrupt removal of, or a rapid decrease in the regular dosage of, a psychoactive substance.

Tolerance: A state in which a drug produces a diminishing biologic or behavioral response; in other words, higher doses are needed to produce the same effect that the user experienced initially. Factors contributing to the development of addiction include the reinforcing properties and availability of the drug, family and peer influences, sociocultural environment, personality and existing psychiatric disorders. Genetic heritage appears to influence susceptibility to alcohol addiction, and possibly addiction to tobacco and other drugs as well .

Detoxification: The process by which an individual who is physically dependent on a substance is withdrawn from it. The primary objective of detoxification is to relieve withdrawal symptoms while the patient adjusts to a drug-free state. It is not, in itself, a treatment for addiction, because it does not affect the long-term course of addiction.

Relapse is a return to drug use after a significant period of abstinence. Relapses may occur over a period of years, because continued recovery requires a series of profound behavioral, social, psychological and physical changes.

Online Relapse Prevention Classes for legal requirements, education requirements, employment requirements or a healthy lifestyle:

8 Hour Online Relapse Prevention Class : $150.00

16 Hour Online Relapse Prevention Class : $300.00

Relapse Prevention Disease Model of Addiction

Relapse Prevention

Copyright Tom Wilson Counseling Center Online Classes

8 Hour Online Relapse Prevention Class

16 hour Online Relapse Prevention Class

The Disease Model of Addiction

It is important to know what beliefs a person has about abuse or addiction in order to understand how a person will approach a change or recovery plan. The "disease model of addiction" was made popular by AA and the American Medical Association and is still a popular model used by many people. This older model has been criticized and new models of addiction and recovery have been proposed.

Today, the main beliefs of disease-model thinking are:

• Most addicts don't know they have a problem and must be forced to recognize they are addicts.
• Addicts cannot control themselves when they drink or take drugs.
• The only solution to drug addiction and/or alcoholism is treatment.
• Addiction is an all-or-nothing disease: A person cannot be a temporary drug addict with a mild drinking or drug problem.
• The most important step in overcoming an addiction is to acknowledge that you are powerless and can't control it.
• Physiology, not psychology, determines whether one drinker will become addicted to alcohol and another will not.
• The fact that alcoholism runs in families means that it is a genetic disease.
• People who are drug addicted can never outgrow addiction and are always in danger of relapsing.

Relapse Prevention

What is Relapse?

Relapse is the return to heavy alcohol or drug use after a period of abstinence or moderate use. Relapse can also refer to a return to other risky behaviors after a period of maintaining healthy behaviors such as smoking, overeating or losing control over angry feelings. 

What is a Lapse? A lapse is an isolated re-occurrence of the problem behavior. If a problem drinker takes a drink after abstaining for several months, this is by definition a lapse, but it becomes a full relapse only when the original pattern of substance abuse or risky behavior returns. If a smoker has a cigarette after several weeks of not smoking, but does not return to his or her daily pack-a-day habit, a lapse has occurred.

What is Relapse Prevention?
Relapse Prevention Therapy (RPT) is a research-based self-control program designed to help maintain positive changes in behavior. This on line program draws heavily from the work of the developer of RPT, Dr. Alan Marlatt of the University of Washington in Seattle. His focus is on habit change rather than on the ideas of will power or inherited disease processes. These techniques focus on how to anticipate and cope with the problem of returning to old habits after a period of success. 

Why Do You Need It?
Studies by Dr. Marlatt show that there are three (3) high-risk situations associated with almost 75% of relapses. They are:

1. Strong emotional states, both positive and negative feelings
2. Interpersonal conflict
3. Social pressure or social influence to use

Cravings Cravings are also associated with risk for relapse. Cravings are strong physical desires to use again, usually seen in persons who have experienced past alcohol, tobacco or other drug dependence. 

Effective Coping Responses Reduce Risk
If an individual has an effective coping response to deal with a high-risk situation, the probability of relapse decreases significantly. When a person copes effectively with a high-risk situation, he or she is likely to experience an increase in confidence about coping successfully. An increase in confidence is an excellent predictor of future success. 

Risk for Relapse
However, what happens if a person has not learned or cannot use a coping response when confronted with a high-risk situation?

Failure to master a high-risk situation is likely to create a sense of powerlessness. This is followed by a person's tendency to recall only the "good" effects of alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with the high risk situation. At this point, a lapse is likely.

ALL classes developed and monitored by Tom Wilson, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is also a Certified Alcohol and Substance Prevention Specialist. Tom is the author of "Taming Anger and Aggression", an anger management program which has been taught to hundreds of people at the counseling center over the last twelve years. He specializes in adapting evidence-based substance abuse prevention programs for delivery through the web and other electronic media.

Drunk Driving Facts for the Holidays

2012 HOLIDAY CAMPAIGN FACT SHEET
Presented by Tom Wilson Counseling Center www.tomwilsoncounseling.com

Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving

The Consequences Aren’t Worth the Risk

• According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 32,885 people were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2010. Thirty-one percent (10,228) of those fatalities involved alcohol-impaired drivers.
  
• Data also shows that 70 percent of alcohol-impaired driving fatalities occurred when the driver’s blood alcohol concentration was .15 grams per deciliter or higher.
  
• The holiday season is particularly dangerous. That’s why Tom Wilson Counseling Center is joining highway safety partners and law enforcement organizations across the nation to remind people during December and throughout the year that Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving and that drinking and driving don’t mix.
  
• On average, 25 people were killed in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes per day during December 2010. Tom Wilson Counseling Center wants to remind people that drinking and driving can quickly turn a holiday celebration into a tragedy.
  
• When you drink and drive, you are putting your life and the lives of others at risk. Be responsible, and don’t let your holiday celebrations end in tragedy.
  
• Getting caught for impaired driving can also result in arrest, loss of driving privileges, higher insurance rates, lost time at work, court costs, fines, and attorney’s fees, and many other unwanted consequences.

You Can Prevent a Tragedy

• Plan ahead; be sure to designate a sober driver before the party begins.
  
• If you will be drinking, do not plan on driving.  Even one too many drinks increases the risk of a crash while driving a motor vehicle. Remember that, Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.
  
• If you are impaired, find another way home.  Use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, use public transportation or have a designated driver that is not drinking at all with you.
  
• Be responsible.  If someone you know is drinking, do not let that person get behind the wheel. If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact law enforcement. Your actions may save someone’s life, and inaction could cost a life.
  
• Visit www.tomwilsoncounseling.com for online DUI, online Alcohol, online Drug, online Minor in Possession, online Drug Diversion and online Relapse Prevention programs.

For more information on Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving, please visit this fact sheet's sponsor at www.TrafficSafetyMarketing.gov.

Avoid Simple Mistakes when Selcting Relapse Prevention Program

Avoiding Simple Mistakes when Selecting an Online Alcohol/Drug Relapse Prevention Class © 2012

Thomas Wilson

Internationally Board Certified Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist

Many persons who experience legal problems as a result of alcohol or drug abuse make the decision to quit using drugs or alcohol. Although self help groups can be part of the recovery process, courts frequently require them to complete a relapse prevention class.  Relapse Prevention is a process of maintaining sobriety or abstinence from alcohol or drugs through a variety of techniques. The courts require you to complete these classes before releasing you from supervision.

However, a simple mistake such as choosing the wrong class or choosing the wrong online program provider could get you into even more trouble with the court.  If you want to resolve your case quickly, avoid these common mistakes.

Mistake # 1: Enrolling in a class from a provider that does not have the proper credentials or is not accredited or approved to provide substance abuse education. 

Drug education or substance abuse prevention classes are taught by professionals who are certified or licensed in alcohol or drug education or counseling.  If you are unsure, ask for a copy of their license or credentials to provide to the court.   

Mistake #2: Enrolling in the wrong class.  Be sure to enroll in the right class that is required by the court. 

A relapse prevention class is is different than a DUI class, drug awareness class or minor in possession classes.   If you are unsure or don’t know the exact name of the class, you should call the office of the program provider and ask for assistance. Licensed and credentialed course providers are happy to help you find the right class. 

Mistake #3: Enrolling in an online class without getting approval from your court or agency. 

A credentialed course provider will not encourage you to sign up unless you have gotten permission from the court or agency that requires the class.  Be sure you have permission from the court, agency or your attorney take the online class.  It’s always a good idea to call and get an OK. 

Mistake #4: Enrolling in the cheapest class. 

Just because the class is the cheapest, does not necessarily mean it will meet court requirements, or provide technical support. Some providers charge extra for certificates or other paper work required by the court. Inquire about all the cost involved in getting proof of enrollment, completion of certificates and mailing costs. Some providers make their money by charging inflated fees for services that are normally included at no cost by licensed or credentialed programs.  

Tom Wilson Counseling Center Relapse Prevention Classes

ALL classes developed and monitored by Tom Wilson, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is also a Certified Alcohol and Substance Prevention Specialist. Tom is the author of "Taming Anger and Aggression", an anger management program which has been taught to hundreds of people at the counseling center over the last twelve years. He specializes in adapting evidence-based substance abuse prevention programs for delivery through the web and other electronic media. 

Relapse Prevention Online Classes

Learning From Your Past Mistakes
If you have a lapse or relapse, use it as a learning experience to help strengthen your recovery. Try to figure out your warning signs and the factors that led to your lapse or relapse. Use it as a motivator to change and to do things differently in your recovery.

If you have had a lapse or relapse it might be helpful to complete a Lapse and Relapse worksheet  to help you evaluate what led to your first drink, cigarette, or use of a drug after having quit. If you have had more than one lapse or relapse, you can complete the worksheet based on several previous experiences. Then you can determine if there are any patterns to your return to substance use.

You should always inform your therapist or counselor if you have a lapse or relapse so that you can work together to figure out what caused it and how you can get back on track. Such open discussions with your therapist will help you in the long run, even if you feel guilty or shameful about your lapse or relapse. Your therapist is there to help you, not to judge you for any mistakes that you make.

Reactions to a Lapse or Relapse

The thoughts and feelings you experience following a lapse play a major role in whether or not you continue to use and move toward a full-blown relapse. Following your initial use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs, if you tell yourself, "I'm a failure, I can't do this, I'll never get it together" or "Since I can't stop myself from going back to using, I might as well continue," you are at high risk for a relapse because you'll be tempted to give up. If you feel excited, happy, good, euphoric, mellow, or even relieved, you may easily ask yourself, "If substances make me feel this good, why not continue to use?" On the other hand, you may feel guilty, shameful, angry at yourself, or disappointed in yourself, only to use these emotions as motivators for continued substance use. Usually, the more negative your initial reaction to a lapse, the more likely you are to say,"The hell with it" and continue using.

Similarly, your thoughts and feelings about a relapse have an impact on whether or not you take action to stop the relapse and get back on the recovery track. If you see yourself as a failure or feel guilty and shameful, you may hesitate to ask a therapist, friend, or family member for help and support.

Tom Wilson Counseling offers many DUI, Alcohol, Drug, Substance and Relapse Prevention classes online.  Tom Wilson is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and an Internationally Certified Prevention Specialist. Click here to view credentials.

Click on class below to register online:

8 Hour Online Relapse Prevention Class: $150.00

16 Hour Online Relapse Prevention Class: $300.00

For more hours, consider an Alcohol and Drug Awareness Class.  These classes contain more information on Alcohol and Substance Abuse as well as Relapse Prevention techniques.

ALL classes developed and monitored by Tom Wilson, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who is also a Certified Alcohol and Substance Prevention Specialist. Tom is the author of "Taming Anger and Aggression", an anger management program which has been taught to hundreds of people at the counseling center over the last twelve years. He specializes in adapting evidence-based substance abuse prevention programs for delivery through the web and other electronic media.

Understanding Recovery from Marijuana

Basic Facts About Marijuana

Marijuana is the most commonly abused illicit drug in the United States. It is a dry, shredded green and brown mix of flowers, stems, seeds, and leaves derived from the hemp plant Cannabis sativa. The main active chemical in marijuana is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC for short.

How is Marijuana Abused?

Marijuana is usually smoked as a cigarette (joint) or in a pipe. It is also smoked in blunts, which are cigars that have been emptied of tobacco and refilled with a mixture of marijuana and tobacco. This mode of delivery combines marijuana's active ingredients with nicotine and other harmful chemicals. Marijuana can also be mixed in food or brewed as a tea. As a more concentrated, resinous form, it is called hashish; and as a sticky black liquid, hash oil. Marijuana smoke has a pungent and distinctive, usually sweet-and-sour odor.

How Does Marijuana Affect the Brain?

Scientists have learned a great deal about how THC acts in the brain to produce its many effects. When someone smokes marijuana, THC rapidly passes from the lungs into the bloodstream, which carries the chemical to the brain and other organs throughout the body.

THC acts upon specific sites in the brain, called cannabinoid receptors, kicking off a series of cellular reactions that ultimately lead to the "high" that users experience when they smoke marijuana. Some brain areas have many cannabinoid receptors; others have few or none. The highest density of cannabinoid receptors are found in parts of the brain that influence pleasure, memory, thinking, concentrating, sensory and time perception, and coordinated movement.

Not surprisingly, marijuana intoxication can cause distorted perceptions, impaired coordination, difficulty with thinking and problem solving, and problems with learning and memory. Research has shown that, in chronic users, marijuana's adverse impact on learning and memory can last for days or weeks after the acute effects of the drug wear off. As a result, someone who smokes marijuana every day may be functioning at a suboptimal intellectual level all of the time.

Research into the effects of long-term cannabis use on the structure of the brain has yielded inconsistent results. It may be that the effects are too subtle for reliable detection by current techniques. A similar challenge arises in studies of the effects of chronic marijuana use on brain function. Brain imaging studies in chronic users tend to show some consistent alterations, but their connection to impaired cognitive functioning is far from clear. This uncertainty may stem from confounding factors such as other drug use, residual drug effects, or withdrawal symptoms in long-term chronic users.

Addictive Potential

Long-term marijuana abuse can lead to addiction; that is, compulsive drug seeking and abuse despite the known harmful effects upon functioning in the context of family, school, work, and recreational activities. Estimates from research suggest that about 9 percent of users become addicted to marijuana; this number increases among those who start young (to about 17 percent) and among daily users (25-50 percent).

Long-term marijuana abusers trying to quit report withdrawal symptoms including: irritability, sleeplessness, decreased appetite, anxiety, and drug craving, all of which can make it difficult to remain abstinent. These symptoms begin within about 1 day following abstinence, peak at 2-3 days, and subside within 1 or 2 weeks following drug cessation.

Marijuana and Mental Health

A number of studies have shown an association between chronic marijuana use and increased rates of anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. Some of these studies have shown age at first use to be an important risk factor, where early use is a marker of increased vulnerability to later problems. However, at this time, it is not clear whether marijuana use causes mental problems, exacerbates them, or reflects an attempt to self-medicate symptoms already in existence.

Chronic marijuana use, especially in a very young person, may also be a marker of risk for mental illnesses - including addiction - stemming from genetic or environmental vulnerabilities, such as early exposure to stress or violence. Currently, the strongest evidence links marijuana use and schizophrenia and/or related disorders.4 High doses of marijuana can produce an acute psychotic reaction; in addition, use of the drug may trigger the onset or relapse of schizophrenia in vulnerable individuals.

Addictive Potential

Long-term marijuana abuse can lead to addiction; that is, compulsive drug seeking and abuse despite the known harmful effects upon functioning in the context of family, school, work, and recreational activities. Estimates from research suggest that about 9 percent of users become addicted to marijuana; this number increases among those who start young (to about 17 percent) and among daily users (25-50 percent).

Long-term marijuana abusers trying to quit report withdrawal symptoms including: irritability, sleeplessness, decreased appetite, anxiety, and drug craving, all of which can make it difficult to remain abstinent. These symptoms begin within about 1 day following abstinence, peak at 2-3 days, and subside within 1 or 2 weeks following drug cessation.

Marijuana and Mental Health

A number of studies have shown an association between chronic marijuana use and increased rates of anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. Some of these studies have shown age at first use to be an important risk factor, where early use is a marker of increased vulnerability to later problems. However, at this time, it is not clear whether marijuana use causes mental problems, exacerbates them, or reflects an attempt to self-medicate symptoms already in existence.

Chronic marijuana use, especially in a very young person, may also be a marker of risk for mental illnesses - including addiction - stemming from genetic or environmental vulnerabilities, such as early exposure to stress or violence. Currently, the strongest evidence links marijuana use and schizophrenia and/or related disorders. High doses of marijuana can produce an acute psychotic reaction; in addition, use of the drug may trigger the onset or relapse of schizophrenia in vulnerable individuals.

What Treatment Options Exist?

Behavioral interventions, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational incentives (i.e., providing vouchers for goods or services to patients who remain abstinent) have shown efficacy in treating marijuana dependence. Although no medications are currently available, recent discoveries about the workings of the cannabinoid system offer promise for the development of medications to ease withdrawal, block the intoxicating effects of marijuana, and prevent relapse.

The latest treatment data indicate that in 2008 marijuana accounted for 17 percent of admissions (322,000) to treatment facilities in the United States, second only to opiates among illicit substances. Marijuana admissions were primarily male (74 percent), White (49 percent), and young (30 percent were in the 12-17 age range). Those in treatment for primary marijuana abuse had begun use at an early age: 56 percent by age 14.

• 8 Hour Online (Level 1) Alcohol/Drug Awareness Class: $150.00
• 12 Hour Online (Level 2) Alcohol/Drug Awareness Class: $225.00
• 16 Hour Online (Level 2) Alcohol/Drug Awareness Class: $300.00
• 20 Hour Online (Level 3) Alcohol/Drug Awareness Class: $375.00
• 24 Hour Online (Level 3) Alcohol/Drug Awareness Class: $450.00

Relapse Prevention Techniques Used for Drug Rehab

Recovery from cocaine addiction: "My counselor gave me a reality check."

"Barbara" is recovering from a cocaine addiction. Counseling is very helpful to her. (This story is based on the experiences of real people whose names have been changed.)

I began my recovery from cocaine addiction November 24th last year. I got into cocaine at parties. At first it was for fun. Then I kept taking it because it gave me energy and made me feel strong and confident. It gave me good feelings inside, but it made me act like a real jerk to everyone else, and I didn't see it. I started to get edgy and impatient, and got into fights with friends for no good reason. I ended two relationships and lost my best friend that way.
Losing that friend finally made me stop and look at what a mess my life had become. I called a crisis hotline, and they got me an appointment at a women's counseling center in town.

The center gave me a lot of help. They introduced me to a Narcotics Anonymous meeting. They talked me through withdrawal symptoms when I was first getting off cocaine. They got me to a doctor's checkup to make sure my body was working OK after the cocaine abuse and withdrawal. They introduced me to a drug counselor who ran support groups and met with people one-on-one.

One-on-one counseling was the most helpful for me. For a few months, I saw my counselor once or twice a week. Now I check in twice a month, to tell her how I'm doing.

Counseling let me see myself in a new way. I realized that feeling bad about myself made me want to use. When I was sad or angry, I'd try to erase those feelings with cocaine. My counselor helped me learn to recognize when I'm stressed out, and do things to help myself feel better. She taught me the initials "HALT": "H" for "hungry, "A" for "angry," "L" for "lonely," and "T" for "tired." When you're feeling any of those things, you're more in danger of slipping up and using drugs to try to feel better. So the best thing to do is "halt": stop what you're doing and take care of yourself right away—get something to eat, blow off some steam, find someone to talk to, or get some rest.

Once, I relapsed after I ran into my old dealer. "It was just an accident," I told my counselor. "I ran into him on the way to the store." But my counselor saw my denial and gave me a reality check. "Why the store in his neighborhood?" she asked me. I realized that I went there to tempt myself into using. Now I know not to go to that neighborhood anymore.



Learn more: After recovery, Barbara's life is different. Read more about her new life.

Learning Relapse Prevention is important, learn how.

Understanding Relapse Prevention Techniques

What are  Relapse Prevention Techniques ?

Imagine that you spent 4-6 weeks struggling to quit smoking, and then out of the blue,  you start smoking again. You think "what am I doing, I put in a lot of effort to quit. I need to stop again." And you do, this time for good. That brief return to your old habit is called a "lapse" or a "slip", but not a complete relapse, which is a full return to an old pattern of unhealthy behavior.

Relapse is a return to unhealthy alcohol or drug use after a significant period of abstinence. Relapses may occur over a period of years, because continued recovery requires a series of profound behavioral, social, psychological and physical changes.

Relapse Prevention Therapy (RPT) is a research-based self-control program designed to help maintain positive changes in behavior, and prevent relapse developed  by Dr. Alan Marlatt of the University of Washington in Seattle. His focus is on habit change rather than on the ideas of will power or inherited disease processes. His techniques focus on how to anticipate and cope with the problem of returning to old habits after a period of success.

Why Do You Need It?
Studies by Dr. Marlatt show that there are three (3) high-risk situations associated with almost 75% of relapses. They are:

1. Strong emotional states, both positive and negative feelings
2. Interpersonal conflict
3. Social pressure or social influence to use

Having an effective coping response to deal with these high-risk situation, reduces the risk of a relapse significantly.When a person copes effectively with a high-risk situation, he or she is likely to experience an increase in confidence about coping successfully. An increase in confidence is an excellent predictor of future success.

Urge Surfing
Lets look at one technique called "Urge surfing". Cravings to return to your bad habit are natural. Expect them and plan for them. Most urges are temporary and short-lived.

A good way to deal with a strong urge is to detach yourself from it. Instead of thinking, "I'm dying for a smoke," think, "I am now experiencing an urge to smoke," or, "Oops, here comes the urge. It won't last."

By watching an urge as though you were outside it, you can let it pass. Urges and cravings are like waves in the ocean: they rise, crest, and fall. Wait out the urge; look forward to it passing, and it will. Or distract yourself by doing something different and fun.

Online Resources for Relapse Prevention
Some online sites now offer online relapse prevention classes to help individuals maintain their positive changes and avoid relapse.