MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'alcohol&alcoholism'. Wed, 21 Jul 2010 11:19:37 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3761633&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Falcohol-screening-and-brief-intervention%2F in Primary Care Settings Michael F. Fleming, M.D., M.P.H. Primary care practitioners are in a unique position to identify patients with potential alcohol problems and intervene when appropriate. Screening, the process by which practitioners can identify at-risk drinkers, can be followed by one-time or repeated short counseling sessions, known as brief interventions, which are designed to help the patient reduce drinking and minimize related problems. Varied levels of screening and brief intervention can be implemented in the primary care setting, depending on patient and physician factors. Although screening and brief intervention are valuable tools, they are underutilized in primary care practices. Strategies that may help increase physicians’ use of these techniques in the primary... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3761633 Fri, 16 Jul 2010 12:01:05 +0100 3761633 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3733302&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcoholism-tops-disease-onset%2F This study looked for the first onset of substance use disorders (i.e., alcohol and drug abuse and dependence) and major mood and anxiety disorders. This landmark survey is the first conducted in the U.S. to identify rates of people who FIRST suffer of these disorders in any one year. The research found that each year the following percentage of the population would BEGIN to suffer one of these diseases. alcohol dependence 1.7% or one in every 59 people will begin to be alcoholic, alcohol abuse 1.0% or one in every 100 people will begin to abuse alcohol, major depressive disorder 1.5% or one in every 67 people will begin to be depressed, generalized anxiety disorder 1.12% or one in every 89 people will begin to be anxious, panic disorder 0.62% or one in every 161 people will begin ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3733302 Wed, 07 Jul 2010 19:48:00 +0100 3733302 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3726782&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fasian-alcoholism-genetics%2F New Findings on Asian Alcohol-Protection Gene Only certain East Asian populations have a high prevalence of a gene that protects against alcohol over-consumption, and researchers speculate that some event must have occurred over the past few thousand years to make this genetic protection advantageous, Reuters reported. Yale University researchers said that unknown environmental factors are the likely cause for the prevalence of the ADH1B*47His gene variant among some Asian populations, but not others. The gene causes rapid metabolism of alcohol into acetaldehyde, a chemical that produces hangovers, flushing, nausea and other unpleasant symptoms that make even moderate drinking a poor experience. Researchers found that the gene variant was very prevalent in East Asia, fairly common in West ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3726782 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 19:27:00 +0100 3726782 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3740831&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FBEp_28lOq1E%2F A Study of Readiness to Change Profiles in Alcohol and Other Drug Abusers. The purpose of the study was to measure readiness to change profiles of alcohol and other drug abusers, information which is needed in the individual tailoring of treatment. The subjects (N = 780) were Finnish alcoholics and polydrug users receiving inpatient treatment. The instrument used to measure readiness to change was the University of Rhode Island Change Assessment Scale (URICA). In the cluster analysis the subjects were placed in groups. The results revealed wide differences in readiness to change profiles, yet not between alcoholics and polydrug users. Higher education, female gender, living with minor children and marital state were consistently associated with better readiness to change. Those coming on ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3740831 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 09:47:56 +0100 3740831 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3724577&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FE-BWcl43UBs%2F Does Prayer Decrease Alcohol Consumption? Four research studies involving 1,758 people show that prayer frequency cuts alcohol consumption. In Study 1 of 824 people, we used a cross-sectional design and found that higher prayer frequency was related to lower alcohol consumption and problematic drinking behavior. Study 2 of 702 people used a longitudinal design and found that more frequent prayer predicted less alcohol consumption and problematic drinking behavior at a later date, and this relationship held when controlling for baseline levels of drinking and prayer. In Study 3 of 117 people, we used an experimental design to test for a causal relationship between prayer frequency and alcohol consumption. Participants assigned to pray every day (either an undirected prayer or a prayer fo... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3724577 Sat, 03 Jul 2010 19:37:00 +0100 3724577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3723438&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fprayer-cuts-drinking-research-proof%2F Does Prayer Decrease Alcohol Consumption? Four research studies involving 1,758 people show that prayer frequency cuts alcohol consumption. In Study 1 of 824 people, we used a cross-sectional design and found that higher prayer frequency was related to lower alcohol consumption and problematic drinking behavior. Study 2 of 702 people used a longitudinal design and found that more frequent prayer predicted less alcohol consumption and problematic drinking behavior at a later date, and this relationship held when controlling for baseline levels of drinking and prayer. In Study 3 of 117 people, we used an experimental design to test for a causal relationship between prayer frequency and alcohol consumption. Participants assigned to pray every day (either an undirected prayer or a prayer fo... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3723438 Sat, 03 Jul 2010 19:37:00 +0100 3723438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3724582&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FkchL571u1ng%2F As dads drink more their children are more likely to have problems. Many fathers in recovery from alcoholism will have observed some of the effects of their drinking on their children. A University of Minnesota study has found that fathers who are heavy alcohol drinkers are more likely to have troubled children, HealthScout News reported. Researchers asked 2,500 fathers how many alcoholic drinks they had ever consumed in one day. They determined that the more the fathers drank, the greater the risk that their children would become dependent on alcohol or drugs or have behavioral problems, such as attention-deficit disorder. "As the number of drinks per day went up, the likelihood of problems increased," said Stephen Malone, lead author of the study and a research associate wi... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3724582 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 16:35:53 +0100 3724582 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3721968&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fheavy-drinking-dads-have-troubled-kids%2F As dads drink more their children are more likely to have problems. Many fathers in recovery from alcoholism will have observed some of the effects of their drinking on their children. A University of Minnesota study has found that fathers who are heavy alcohol drinkers are more likely to have troubled children, HealthScout News reported. Researchers asked 2,500 fathers how many alcoholic drinks they had ever consumed in one day. They determined that the more the fathers drank, the greater the risk that their children would become dependent on alcohol or drugs or have behavioral problems, such as attention-deficit disorder. "As the number of drinks per day went up, the likelihood of problems increased," said Stephen Malone, lead author of the study and a research associate wi... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3721968 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 16:35:53 +0100 3721968 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3718702&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Ftips-for-teens-the-truth-about-alcohol%2F Specially designed to appeal to teenagers, Tips for Teens pamphlets provide relevant facts about substance abuse, offering vital statistics, answers to frequently asked questions, and website addresses and toll-free numbers so teens can get information. Alcohol affects your brain. Drinking alcohol leads to a loss of coordination, poor judgment, slowed reflexes, distorted vision, memory lapses, and even blackouts. Alcohol affects your body. Alcohol can damage every organ in your body. It is absorbed directly into your bloodstream and can increase your risk for a variety of life-threatening diseases, including cancer. Alcohol affects your self-control. Alcohol depresses your central nervous system, lowers your inhibitions, and impairs your judgment. Drinking can lead to risky behaviors... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3718702 Thu, 01 Jul 2010 18:54:00 +0100 3718702 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3714451&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F5-stages-of-alcoholism-2%2F The Disease of Alcoholism There are, and have been, many theories about alcoholism. The most prevailing theory, and now most commonly accepted, is called the Disease Model. Its basic tenets are that alcoholism is a disease with recognizable symptoms, causes, and methods of treatment. In addition, there are several stages of the disease which are often described as early, middle, late, treatment and relapse. While it is not essential to fully define these stages, it is useful to understand them in terms of how the disease presents itself. This series of articles describes the signs and symptoms of each stage as well as exploring treatment options. Early or Adaptive Stage Middle Stage Late Stage Treating Alcoholism Relapse to drinking 1 – The Early or Adaptive Stage of Alcoholis... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3714451 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:28:00 +0100 3714451 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3740836&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FVANTRWNfLc0%2F Social network variables in alcoholics anonymous : A literature review Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is the most commonly used program for substance abuse recovery and one of the few models to demonstrate positive abstinence outcomes. Although little is known regarding the underlying mechanisms that make this program effective, one frequently cited aspect is social support. In order to gain insight into the processes at work in AA, this paper reviewed 24 papers examining the relationship between AA and social network variables. Various types of social support were included in the review such as structural support, functional support, general support, alcohol-specific support, and recovery helping. Overall, this review found that AA involvement is related to a variety of positive qualitative ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3740836 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 08:51:54 +0100 3740836 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3710800&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fthe-middle-stage-of-alcoholism%2F The Disease of Alcoholism There are, and have been, many theories about alcoholism. The most prevailing theory, and now most commonly accepted, is called the Disease Model. Its basic tenets are that alcoholism is a disease with recognizable symptoms, causes, and methods of treatment. In addition, there are several stages of the disease which are often described as early, middle, late, treatment and relapse. While it is not essential to fully define these stages, it is useful to understand them in terms of how the disease presents itself. This series of articles describes the signs and symptoms of each stage as well as exploring treatment options. Early or Adaptive Stage Middle Stage Late Stage Treating Alcoholism Relapse to drinking 2 – The Middle Stage of Alcoholism There is ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3710800 Tue, 29 Jun 2010 15:19:00 +0100 3710800 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3707004&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Frelapse-to-drinking%2F The Disease of Alcoholism There are, and have been, many theories about alcoholism. The most prevailing theory, and now most commonly accepted, is called the Disease Model. Its basic tenets are that alcoholism is a disease with recognizable symptoms, causes, and methods of treatment. In addition, there are several stages of the disease which are often described as early, middle, late, treatment and relapse. While it is not essential to fully define these stages, it is useful to understand them in terms of how the disease presents itself. This series of articles describes the signs and symptoms of each stage as well as exploring treatment options. Early or Adaptive Stage Middle Stage Late Stage Treating Alcoholism Relapse to drinking 5 – Relapse An important and frustrating fac... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3707004 Mon, 28 Jun 2010 14:53:31 +0100 3707004 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3687365&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Ffamily-stages-of-alcoholism%2F A family with an alcoholic in its midst will go through several stages in dealing with the chaos and disruption caused by the alcoholic. These stages are described below in order of appearance. Denial: Early in the development of alcoholism, occasional episodes of excessive drinking are explained away by both marriage partners. Drinking because of tiredness, worry, or a bad day is not unbelievable. The assumption is that the episode is isolated and is, therefore, not a problem. Attempts to Eliminate the Problem:The non-alcoholic spouse realizes that the drinking is not normal and tries to pressure the alcoholic to quit, be more careful, or cut down. At the same time, the spouse tries to hide the problems from the outside and keep up a good.front. Children may start to have problems in resp... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3687365 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 15:42:00 +0100 3687365 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3679916&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcoholic-brain-damage-and-thiamine%2F The Role of Thiamine Deficiency in Alcoholic Brain Disease A deficiency in the essential nutrient thiamine resulting from chronic alcohol consumption is one factor underlying alcohol-induced brain damage. Thiamine is a helper molecule (i.e., a cofactor) required by three enzymes involved in two pathways of carbohydrate metabolism. Because intermediate products of these pathways are needed for the generation of other essential molecules in the cells (eg., building blocks of proteins and DNA as well as brain chemicals), a reduction in thiamine can interfere with numerous cellular functions, leading to serious brain disorders, including Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which is found predominantly in alcoholics. Chronic alcohol consumption can result in thiamine deficiency by causing inadequate... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3679916 Sun, 20 Jun 2010 17:56:00 +0100 3679916 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3695817&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FUUeQOwQ1cyQ%2F New Findings on Asian Alcohol-Protection Gene Only certain East Asian populations have a high prevalence of a gene that protects against alcohol over-consumption, and researchers speculate that some event must have occurred over the past few thousand years to make this genetic protection advantageous, Reuters reported. Yale University researchers said that unknown environmental factors are the likely cause for the prevalence of the ADH1B*47His gene variant among some Asian populations, but not others. The gene causes rapid metabolism of alcohol into acetaldehyde, a chemical that produces hangovers, flushing, nausea and other unpleasant symptoms that make even moderate drinking a poor experience. Researchers found that the gene variant was very prevalent in East Asia, fairly common in West ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3695817 Sun, 20 Jun 2010 06:18:17 +0100 3695817 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3678662&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcohol-in-food%2F Contrary to popular belief, alcohol does not completely cook out of foods — something recovering alcoholics and those with alcohol-related illnesses need to keep in mind. A study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that recipes with added alcohol retained from 4% to 85% of the alcohol. The recipes ranged from chilled foods such as brandy Alexander pie to foods with a long simmering time such as pot roast. The amount of alcohol that burns off depends on the cooking method used and how long the alcohol is cooked. In the study, a flamed dish retained 75% of the alcohol, while a recipe simmered for 2 ½ hours retained 5% of the alcohol. Always inform your guests when you’re cooking with alcohol. Adapted from; HEART SMART of the Henry Ford Hospital Heart ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3678662 Sat, 19 Jun 2010 15:49:00 +0100 3678662 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3695818&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2F4OTB2E4wPKw%2F Brief-TSF Treatment Setting Brief-TSF can be used with both individuals who have never sought treatment and those who had previous treatment and aftercare clients. The model is flexible enough to accommodate all of these client groups. However, since Brief-TSF relies heavily on client involvement in community-based 12 step fellowship and meetings, it would be less ideally implemented in a long-term inpatient setting. Many Twelve Step Fellowship members are willing to visit ‘Newcomers’ in hospital. Brief-TSF can easily be integrated into a general mental health outpatient clinic setting. BriefTSF is designed to be used in the context of short-term individual adjunct therapy by general healthcare and other helping profession workers. BriefTSF is specifically intended to be impl... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3695818 Fri, 18 Jun 2010 06:02:04 +0100 3695818 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3672051&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcohol-and-hepatitis%2F In conclusion alcohol abuse is associated with an accelerated progression of liver injury, leading to an earlier development of cirrhosis, higher incidence of cancer of the liver, and higher death rates. Abstinence from alcohol could reverse some of these deleterious effects. Research report; Gitto S, Micco L, Conti F, Andreone P, Bernardi M. Alcohol and viral hepatitis: a mini-review. Dig Liver Dis. 2009 Jan;41(1):67-70. See also; Hep C Factsheet Hepatitis B If you have healthcare training this manual may help. Hazelden Books and Categories Faith It Till You Make It Recovery Books, Medallions & DVD's (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3672051 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 16:13:00 +0100 3672051 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3672053&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcohol-addiction%2F Where does one draw the line between being a social drinker and having an alcohol addiction? For many people, the lines aren’t always so clear, especially when everyone around them seems to be binge drinking, drinking on a daily basis or glamorizing alcohol use. Social drinking can easily progress into a psychological, or even physical, dependence over time, as it becomes habitually ingrained in our behavioral patterns. Suddenly, we drink to be more interesting, drink to make others more interesting, drink for courage in social settings, drink to give ourselves a boost of energy, or drink to cover up negative feelings like pain, depression or anxiety. Prior to an addiction to alcohol, there is generally a prolonged time period when the social drinker finds that he or she is drinking more... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3672053 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 15:50:00 +0100 3672053 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3672043&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FAfjobfsd9VI%2F The American National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has announced a ‘Five Year Strategic Plan’ titled ‘Alcohol Across the Lifespan’   The Lifespan Perspective Investigators traditionally have pursued solutions to the wide range of alcohol-related issues through studies of alcohol’s effects on biological systems, the genetic factors underlying these biological effects, and the environmental and cultural factors that influence alcohol use. This Plan applies a new organizing principle – the lifespan perspective – to these diverse areas of alcohol research. Scientists now recognize that human biology and behavior continues to change throughout life and changes occurring throughout the lifespan affect individuals’ drinking pa... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3672043 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 05:29:25 +0100 3672043 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3672044&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2Fb-YdyO2BzgA%2F Psychotherapy is a unique relationship, a kind of connection that is unlike any other kind of relationship a person has in their life. In some ways, it can be more intimate than our most intimate relationships, but it also paradoxically values a vestige of professional distance between therapist and client. Therapists, alas, are just as human as the clients they see and come with the same human foibles. They have bad habits, as we all do, but some of those habits have the very real potential of interfering with the psychotherapy process and the unique psychotherapy relationship. So without further ado, here are twelve things you wish your therapist didn’t do — some of which may actually harm the psychotherapeutic relationship. Showing up late for the appointment. Eating in ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3672044 Tue, 15 Jun 2010 05:24:37 +0100 3672044 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3655805&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fhelp-an-alcoholic-7-2%2F Set a good example From her own experience, a wife thinks it’s important for family and friends not to drink in front of people they’d like to stop drinking. Indeed, one of the common themes in advice to loved ones is to be good role models, setting an example by taking steps like avoiding drinking around them and not bringing alcohol into the house. She adds, “Don’t let your good times revolve around drinking.” She recalls how many of the things she and her husband did together used to involve alcohol: “Every event I perceived as a good time revolved around booze. And he just went along with me. We would go to his softball games and out for beer afterward. And if we went to parties or summer picnics, alcohol was always involved.” In short, if a major focus of your relati... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3655805 Sat, 12 Jun 2010 15:11:00 +0100 3655805 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3672048&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FpD5K0TgTIWI%2F Those under age 25 are particularly vulnerable to dual abuse. Men and women with alcohol use disorders (AUD’s) are 18 times more likely to report nonmedical use of prescription drugs than people who don’t drink at all, according to researchers at the University of Michigan. Dr. Sean Esteban McCabe and colleagues documented this link in two NIDA-funded studies; they also discovered that young adults were most at risk for concurrent or simultaneous abuse of both alcohol and prescription drugs. “The message of these studies is that clinicians should conduct thorough drug use histories, particularly when working with young adults,” says Dr. McCabe. “Clinicians should ask patients with alcohol use disorders about nonmedical use of prescription drugs [NMUPD] and in ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3672048 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 14:00:17 +0100 3672048 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3641330&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F10-principles-of-addiction-and-recovery%2F Alcoholism and addiction have several common threads with reciprocal recovery principles. In their book, "Rethinking Substance Abuse,” editors William R. Miller and Kathleen M. Carroll to sum up what has been learned about the science of addiction. These are; Drug Use is Chosen Behavior in the Beginning – for experimenting, peer pressure or otherwise its chosen at first. Drug Problems Emerge Gradually – it takes time to become addicted. Once Well Established, Drug Problems Tend to Become Self-Perpetuating – once the brain alters it number of drug receptor cells drug craving demands more of the same. Motivation is Central to Prevention and Intervention – actively doing something toward change may be more important than the particular actions that are taken. Drug Us... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3641330 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 01:07:00 +0100 3641330 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3636027&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FBiIFlNzVLaU%2F Alcoholism and addiction have several common threads with reciprocal recovery principles. In their book, "Rethinking Substance Abuse,” editors William R. Miller and Kathleen M. Carroll to sum up what has been learned about the science of addiction. These are; Drug Use is Chosen Behavior in the Beginning – for experimenting, peer pressure or otherwise its chosen at first. Drug Problems Emerge Gradually – it takes time to become addicted. Once Well Established, Drug Problems Tend to Become Self-Perpetuating – once the brain alters it number of drug receptor cells drug craving demands more of the same. Motivation is Central to Prevention and Intervention – actively doing something toward change may be more important than the particular actions that are taken. Drug Us... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3636027 Mon, 07 Jun 2010 01:07:00 +0100 3636027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3641331&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcoholism-is-a-family-disease%2F Family Recovery Family recovery is one of the keys to treatment for alcoholism. Alcoholics and alcohol abusers attract more public attention, but their families and friends also suffer long-term effects from alcoholism-and their recovery may be essential to the alcoholic’s recovery, according to a leading researcher in the field. “Alcoholism is a family disease. While it is important for the family to support the alcoholic’s recovery, it is also important for members of the family to get involved in their own recovery. Family recovery decreases the chances that the children of alcoholics will repeat the pattern and engage in unhealthy relationships,” said Robert J. Ackerman, Ph.D., cofounder of the National Association for Children of Alcoholics and director of the Mid-Atla... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3641331 Sun, 06 Jun 2010 17:07:01 +0100 3641331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3599745&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FpviUKCyysFQ%2F Detoxification from alcohol abuse. The alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) is a common management problem in hospital practice for neurologists, psychiatrists and general physicians alike. Although some patients have mild symptoms and may even be managed in the outpatient setting, others have more severe symptoms or a history of adverse outcomes that requires close inpatient supervision and benzodiazepine therapy. Many patients with AWS have multiple management issues; withdrawal symptoms, delirium tremens (DT’s), the Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome, seizures, depression, polysubstance abuse, electrolyte disturbances and liver disease, These require a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach. Although AWS may be complex, careful evaluation and available treatments should en... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3599745 Wed, 26 May 2010 11:01:05 +0100 3599745 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3599746&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FgmaEiInPPRc%2F Conclusions; These findings provide compelling evidence that adult children of parents with substance use disorders are more likely to have relapses of social phobia and panic disorders. Clinicians who treat adults with anxiety disorders should assess parental substance use disorders and dependence histories. Such information may facilitate treatment planning with regards to their patients’ level of vulnerability to perceive scrutiny by others in social situations, and ability to maintain a long-term panic-free state. Research; Impact of parental history of substance use disorders on the clinical course of anxiety disorders. Maria E. Pagano, Richard Rende, Benjamin F. Rodriguez, Eric L. Hargraves, Amanda T. Moskowitz, & Martin B. Keller. Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3599746 Tue, 25 May 2010 10:57:13 +0100 3599746 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3599747&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FOWHgRNgT9Fo%2F This study clearly demonstrates the financial benefits of providing treatment for drug and alcohol problems,” according to Susan Ettner, lead author and professor of general internal medicine and health services research at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine and School of Public Health. The researcher team used data from 2,567 clients in 43 treatment programs in 13 California counties during 2000 and 2001, through the California Treatment Outcome Project (CalTOP). The research team estimated cost of treatment for an individual by multiplying the number of days spent in each treatment setting, such as residential or outpatient, by the average daily cost of each mode of treatment, estimated using cost data collected from treatment providers. Monetary benefits associated with ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3599747 Mon, 24 May 2010 10:36:49 +0100 3599747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3592417&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fdangerous-relapse-words%2F Relapse to alcohol or drug use is a complicated problem. It is something that has numerous warning signs and many plans of attack, but without help and a serious commitment on your part, it will win and you will lose. avoiding fun, overanalyzing yourself, blaming other people, too much or too little sleep, making a major life change in the first year, - are all signs that you are entering an area that may take you somewhere you don’t want to go. RELAPSE DANGER WORDS I forgot Maybe Kinda Someway I’ll try This is BS I don’t know More or less Sorta I can’t As I can Who cares Problem! I guess Sometimes I don’t see how It’s too hard You’re picking on me Relapse can be avoided. You will have to be honest, open and willing to deal directly with each symptom as it appears. W... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3592417 Fri, 21 May 2010 20:47:00 +0100 3592417 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3589044&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FibgWk0kCVlc%2F Relapse to alcohol or drug use is a complicated problem. It is something that has numerous warning signs and many plans of attack, but without help and a serious commitment on your part, it will win and you will lose. avoiding fun, overanalyzing yourself, blaming other people, too much or too little sleep, making a major life change in the first year, - are all signs that you are entering an area that may take you somewhere you don’t want to go. RELAPSE DANGER WORDS I forgot Maybe Kinda Someway I’ll try This is BS I don’t know More or less Sorta I can’t As I can Who cares Problem! I guess Sometimes I don’t see how It’s too hard You’re picking on me Relapse can be avoided. You will have to be honest, open and willing to deal directly with each symptom as it appears. W... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3589044 Fri, 21 May 2010 20:47:00 +0100 3589044 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3577634&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FnaWND7O2il4%2F Common Problems in Patients Recovering from Chemical Dependency Chemical dependency is a common, chronic disease that affects up to 25 percent of patients seen in primary care practices. The treatment goal for patients recovering from chemical dependency should be to avoid relapse. This requires physicians to have an open, nonjudgmental attitude and specific expertise about the implications of addiction for other health problems. Firstline treatment for chemical dependency should be nonpharmacologic, but when medication is necessary, physicians should avoid drugs that have the potential for abuse or addiction. Medications that sedate or otherwise impair judgment also should be avoided in the recovering patient. Psychiatric illnesses should be aggressively treated, because untreated sympt... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3577634 Mon, 17 May 2010 09:20:19 +0100 3577634 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3577635&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FUCwbm-UN8wE%2F Understanding Stress: Characteristics and Caveats By Hymie Anisman, Ph.D. and Zul Merali, Ph.D. Exposure to stressful situations is among the most common human experiences. These types of situations can range from unexpected calamities to routine daily annoyances. In response to stressors, a series of behavioral, neurochemical, and immunological changes occur that ought to serve in an adaptive capacity. However, if those systems become overly taxed, the organism may become vulnerable to pathology. Likewise, the biological changes, if sufficiently sustained, may themselves adversely affect the organism’s well-being. Several factors may dictate an individual’s response to environmental stressors, including characteristics of the stressor (i.e., type of stressor and its controlla... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3577635 Sun, 16 May 2010 09:17:13 +0100 3577635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3566814&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F3Oyhyshd-mo%2F The liver is one of the largest and most complex organs in the body. It stores vital energy and nutrients, manufactures proteins and enzymes necessary for good health, protects the body from disease, and breaks down (or metabolizes) and helps remove harmful toxins, like alcohol, from the body. Because the liver is the chief organ responsible for metabolizing alcohol, it is especially vulnerable to alcohol-related injury. Even as few as three drinks at one time may have toxic effects on the liver when combined with certain over-the-counter medications, such as those containing acetaminophen. Alcoholic Liver Disease (ALD)—From Steatosis to Cirrhosis ALD includes three conditions: fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis. Heavy drinking for as little as a few days can lead to “f... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3566814 Fri, 14 May 2010 19:45:15 +0100 3566814 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3577637&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FDT4XIt3VeKA%2F This study (1) assessed attributes that may influence 12-step attendance and affiliation; (2) tested whether 12-step affiliation in the first 3 months posttreatment possessed unique predictive power above that attributable to attendance alone; and (3) examined the extent to which motivation, coping and self-efficacy measured at 3 months mediated the relation between 12-step affiliation and substance use outcome in the ensuing 3 months. Adolescent inpatients (N = 74, 62% female), who were aged 14-18 years (mean [SD] ? 15.9 [1.19] years), were interviewed during treatment and at 3 and 6 months post-discharge. More severely substance-involved youth were more motivated for abstinence and more likely to attend and affiliate with 12-step groups. A high degree of collinearity between 12-step a... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3577637 Thu, 13 May 2010 08:47:26 +0100 3577637 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3547009&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FNWhb9hjvZa4%2F : is it different in onset and outcome compared to men? Abstract; Onset and course of alcohol dependence show gender related differences suggesting that women are more vulnerable to chronic alcohol consumption. Known as the telescoping effect where women have greater and faster alcohol related effect. This raises the question whether the differences are associated with a different treatment outcome as well. We hypothesized, that alcohol dependent women with a telescoping course show a less favourable treatment outcome compared to men. We investigated 212 alcohol dependent patients; matching 106 consecutively admitted women with 106 men drawn from a total sample of 343 male patients. The treatment program consisted of a 6 week inpatient treatment and 12 months of outpatient aftercare. We as... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3547009 Fri, 07 May 2010 07:42:47 +0100 3547009 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3547016&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2Fb7X1u2eY_Xo%2F Alcohol consumption and the CAGE questionnaire in Korean adults: results from the Second Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. J Korean Med Sci. 2008 Apr;23(2):199-206. Park JT, Kim BG, Jhun HJ. We evaluated alcohol consumption and alcohol-related problems in Korean adults by evaluating alcohol consumption and responses to the CAGE questionnaire obtained from the second Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The age-adjusted prevalence of males who consumed 0, 0.1-20, 20.1-40, or >40 g/day of alcohol were 28.0, 51.5, 12.5, and 8.0%, respectively; 26.9% of male drinkers were CAGE-positive (> or =2 affirmative responses to the CAGE). The age-adjusted prevalence of females who consumed 0, 0.1-10, 10.1-20, or >20 g/day of alcohol were 67.7, 26.6, ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3547016 Sun, 02 May 2010 07:07:05 +0100 3547016 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3522836&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FGa9WPLHmU6U%2F Everything You Need to Know about Chemical Dependence – Addiction, Alcoholism Alcohol Heroin Amphetamines Tobacco Inhalants Cocaine Marijuana Medications By Vernon E. Johnson, D.D., founder of the Johnson Institute. Former faculty member of Rutgers University Summer School for Alcohol Studies Dr. Johnson compiled the most popular Johnson Institute literature on chemical dependence for this complete family guide. It includes answers to these important questions: How can I recognize chemical dependence? How can I avoid it? How can my family solve the problems that come with it? How is chemical dependence different for men, women, teenagers, children, and the elderly? How can I prevent my child from using drugs? Designed for easy access, this practical guide to prevention, interventi... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3522836 Sat, 01 May 2010 13:25:00 +0100 3522836 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3522827&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FhyenDfORCLE%2F CONCLUSIONS: Promoting self-help group involvement appears to improve post-treatment outcomes while reducing the costs of continuing care. Even cost offsets that somewhat diminish over the long term can yield substantial savings. Actively promoting self-help group involvement may therefore be a useful clinical practice for helping addicted patients recover in a time of constrained fiscal resources. Humphreys K, Moos RH. Alcohol Clin Exp Res. 2007 Jan;31(1):64-8. Encouraging posttreatment self-help group involvement to reduce demand for continuing care services: two-year clinical and utilization outcomes. See also; Twelve Step Facilitation Brief-TSF can assist patients cease alcohol consumption. Random ArticlesIntake Symptomatology and AA ParticipationLesbians’ Process of Recovery f... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3522827 Tue, 27 Apr 2010 06:38:05 +0100 3522827 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3522829&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2F1wDPZcis6gc%2F November 30, 2009 Nurses, doctors, dentists and other health professionals in California who are in treatment for alcohol and other drug problems will now be subject to stricter oversight and could be immediately removed from practice should they relapse, the Los Angeles Times reported. Health workers will now be required to take more than 100 drug tests during their first year in treatment. One positive drug test result will be enough to have a health professional be temporarily suspended from practice. All restrictions to licenses will be posted online for public access. The new standards were created by the state legislature last year to address the way recovery programs for doctors were being handled. The Medical Board of California ended its diversion program in 2008 after several a... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3522829 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 06:20:03 +0100 3522829 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3522830&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FSHMrFQcKeyI%2F Conclusions Individuals with SAMCs benefit from integrated medical and substance abuse treatment, and such an approach can be cost-effective. These findings are relevant given the high prevalence and cost of medical conditions among substance abuse patients, new developments in medications for addiction, and recent legislation on parity of substance abuse with other medical benefits. Research report; Integrating Primary Medical Care With Addiction Treatment; A Randomized Controlled Trial, Constance Weisner, DrPH; Jennifer Mertens, MA; Sujaya Parthasarathy, PhD; Charles Moore, MD, MBA; Yun Lu, MPH. JAMA. 2001;286:1715-1723. Random ArticlesWhat Are Drug Users Looking For?What is Brief-TSF?Alcoholism Treatment in a Nursing HomePersistent Pain Increases Risk of RelapseAlcohol Brief Interventi... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3522830 Sun, 25 Apr 2010 05:59:40 +0100 3522830 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3522833&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2F4LZLTBtaWTc%2F , But More Research Needed on Why A new study from Pire’s Behavioral Health Research Center finds that drunk-driving recidivism declines when offenders are sent to DUI courts and ordered to wear electronic monitoring devices and sell their cars, but experts say that it remains unclear exactly what makes the courts effective. A PIRE press release noted that DUI courts can prescribe a range of sanctions against offenders, including intensive probation, random drug testing, and addiction treatment. “While evidence indicates that these court intervention programs and DUI courts reduce recidivism, few studies have tried to determine what exactly accounts for their success,” said study author Sandra Lapham, M.D. The study of a DUI court in Portland, Ore., found that arrest rat... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3522833 Thu, 22 Apr 2010 05:21:52 +0100 3522833 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3479900&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FZIgu3sexZbY%2F Conclusion: This interesting study shows that drinking coffee potentially protects against alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver. Of course, the best way to prevent alcoholic cirrhosis remains adhering to lower-risk drinking limits or abstaining from alcohol if altogether.  Reference: Klatsky AL, Morton C, Udaltsova N, et al. Coffee, cirrhosis, and transaminase enzymes. Arch Intern Med. 2006;166(11):1190–1195. Brief-TSF will assist in recovery. Share/SaveRandom ArticlesThe Twelve-step Recovery Model of Alcoholics AnonymousNutritional Therapy in Alcoholic Liver DiseaseSlogans for everyday life in AA12 Step Involvement and Peer HelpingCompatibility (Source: Twelve Step Facilitation.com) Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3479900 Wed, 14 Apr 2010 04:11:01 +0100 3479900 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3479904&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FVugu1V14kDo%2F Do Doctors’ Drinking Habits Affect Management of Patients’ Alcohol Problems? Two different studies explored whether a physician’s approach to his patients’ alcohol use is complicated by his own drinking habits. Kaner et al interviewed 29 general practitioners (GPs) in Northern England and found the following: Some GPs felt that their own alcohol use provided them insight into their patients’ use and helped facilitate discussion with patients. Others, however, separated their drinking from their patients’ drinking. Some GPs recognized and addressed risk only in patients who drank more or differently from them. Aalto et al surveyed all Finnish primary care physicians (n=3193), 60% of whom completed all survey questions (63% women; mean age 42 years). Of th... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3479904 Sat, 10 Apr 2010 03:39:02 +0100 3479904 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3479905&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FbxdbGPWJjCw%2F Conclusions: For dually-diagnosed individuals, continued participation in dual recovery self-help groups plays a significant role in the recovery process, particularly in the area of substance use. Implications for Policy, Delivery or Practice: Participation in dual-recovery self-help groups, both during and after formal treatment, should be encouraged as part of an integrated lifelong recovery plan for dually-diagnosed individuals. Research; One-Year Outcomes among Members of a Dual-Recovery Self-Help Program. Laudet A, Magura S, Vogel H, Knight E, Staines G; Abstr Acad Health Serv Res Health Policy Meet. 2000; 17. More at; Double Trouble in Recovery See also; 12-Step Treatment More Effective than Alternative AA and Treatment Work Better Together Subscribe to Twelve Step Facilitation by ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3479905 Fri, 09 Apr 2010 03:28:24 +0100 3479905 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3479906&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FkW3taFhU3Fo%2F Conclusions: Greater awareness of this resource for mental health and substance misuse fields could enhance practice. Mutual aid groups in psychiatry and substance misuse. Alex Baldacchino;  Woody Caan; Carol Munn-Giddings. Mental Health and Substance Use: dual diagnosis, Volume 1, Issue 2 June 2008 , pages 104 – 117 See also; 12-Step Treatment More Effective than Alternative AA Offers Recovery Not Religion Brief-TSF can assist patients cease alcohol consumption. Subscribe to Twelve Step Facilitation by e-Mail           The Self-Help Sourcebook: Finding & Forming Mutual Aid Self-Help Groups Amazon Books; Read more about this title… Share/SaveDouble Trouble in RecoveryAlcohol Brief Intervention in Primary Pr... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3479906 Thu, 08 Apr 2010 03:13:12 +0100 3479906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3449149&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FPGD1RWTceX8%2F A cohort study of male subjects attending an Alcoholics Anonymous program in India: One-year follow-up for sobriety. A cohort of subjects in India who completed detoxification treatment and a de-addiction program based on the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) model were followed-up at 1 year to investigate the factors associated with complete abstinence. Patients (N = 187 men) who were admitted consecutively to an addiction facility and fulfilled Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) criteria for alcohol dependence were recruited for the study. Patients with major psychopathology were excluded. The final outcome at 1 year was determined by visiting the patients and talking to the families and members of the local AA group. Of the 187 men initially recruite... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3449149 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 03:00:37 +0100 3449149 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3437930&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FKUFJeC9BPM4%2F Efficacy of an Intensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Program in Alcoholism Treatment of alcohol-dependent patients was primarily focused on inpatient settings in the past decades. The efficacy of these treatment programs has been evaluated in several studies and proven to be sufficient. However, with regard to the increasing costs in public healthcare systems, questions about alternative treatment strategies have been raised. Meanwhile, there is growing evidence that outpatient treatment might be comparably effective as inpatient treatment, at least for subgroups of alcohol dependents. On that background, the present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a high-structured outpatient treatment program in 103 alcohol-dependent patients. 74 patients (72%) terminated the outpatient treatment r... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3437930 Mon, 05 Apr 2010 02:48:20 +0100 3437930 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3437931&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FshbplyUaF-E%2F (MET) is a systematic intervention approach for evoking change in problem drinkers. It is based on principles of motivational psychology and is designed to produce rapid, internally motivated change. This treatment employs motivational strategies to mobilize the client’s own change resources. MET consists of four carefully planned and individualized treatment sessions. The first two focus on structured feedback from the initial assessment, future plans, and motivation for change, The final two sessions at the midpoint and end of treatment provide opportunities for the therapist to reinforce progress, encourage reassessment, and provide an objective perspective on the process of change. The counselor seeks to develop a discrepancy in the client’s perceptions between current b... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3437931 Sun, 04 Apr 2010 02:43:54 +0100 3437931 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3437933&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FJPZlTeEt01s%2F Conclusions; The strong, specific association between prior alcohol dependence and current or recent major depression in a nationally representative sample of former drinkers indicates that the association is not entirely an artifact of misdiagnosed intoxication and withdrawal effects. A better understanding of the nature of the relationship between the 2 disorders should be sought and will have important public health significance. Research report; Deborah S. Hasin; Bridget F. Grant.Major Depression in 6050 Former Drinkers; Association With Past Alcohol Dependence. Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2002;59:794-800. Alcoholics Have Trouble Identifying Emotions Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Depressed Men Who Drink More Likely to Commit Suicide Depression & 12-Step Programs Share/SaveRando... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3437933 Fri, 02 Apr 2010 02:17:01 +0100 3437933 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3437936&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2F7X2M2PZuyuY%2F This article reports on follow-up interviews conducted with a representative sample of 722 people who had entered treatment about a year earlier in public and private programs, including publicly-funded social model detoxification and residential programs, and clinical model programs in hospitals and HMO clinics. higher levels of 12-step program involvement during follow-up, which strongly predicted an absence of alcohol problems Social model clients came to treatment with more severe legal and employment problems, whereas those seeking treatment at clinical programs reported more severe family problems. At follow-up, clients at both types of programs reported attending a similar number of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings, but social model clients reported going to more Narcotics Anon... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3437936 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 01:58:30 +0100 3437936 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3412596&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FQcpS7WxOmpE%2F Alcohol Related Harm Hangovers are the most obvious result of a heavy drinking episode. They are a much talked about subject due to the self inflicted feelings of sickness and nausea they cause a person. But a hangover is not the only reminder of a heavy drinking session. The British Royal College of General Practitioners highlighted the potential harm related to alcohol arising from either regular heavy drinking, intoxication or alcoholism. They categorised the resulting problems as social, psychological or physical, and listed these problems in two lists – Problems as a result of heavy drinking and problems as a result of intoxication, drunkenness. These are; Problems related to regular heavy drinking Social Family problems Divorce Homelessness Work difficulties Unemploymen... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3412596 Sat, 27 Mar 2010 18:14:00 +0100 3412596 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3408640&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Freductions-in-drinking-for-hep-c-patients%2F DISCUSSION: Brief treatment addressing heavy drinking delivered by hepatitis clinicians with psychiatric-specialist follow-up was associated with abstinence or a significant reduction in alcohol consumption in over 50% of patients. Eric Dieperink, M.D., Samuel B. Ho, M.D., Sara Heit, M.S., R.N., C.N.S., Janet M. Durfee, R.N., M.S.N., APRN, Paul Thuras, Ph.D., and Mark L. Willenbring, M.D. Psychosomatics 51:149-156, March-April 2010 See also Hepatitis C – Does sexual transmission occur? Counselor Magazine’s Addiction Professional Reference Guide Disturbing Denial Improving Treatment Compliance Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome Related Reading: Share/SaveRandom ArticlesPatient Mental Illness in a Dental School ClinicComorbid anxiety or alcohol disorderAA and recovery from alc... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3408640 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 09:34:46 +0100 3408640 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3411297&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F_PaV1i9ACmo%2F The fundamental components of staying sober — not using, going to meetings, reaching out, working the Steps, and serving other — are only the beginning of the strategies offered. Day-to-day and moment-to-moment techniques plus program slogans and humor provide newcomers with fresh wisdom for maintaining sobriety. - Order today >> Staying Sober - Alcoholism, Addiction & Codependency Recovery Bookstore Hazelden Books, DVD's & Medalions (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3411297 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 03:10:00 +0100 3411297 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3404151&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fstaying-sober%2F The fundamental components of staying sober — not using, going to meetings, reaching out, working the Steps, and serving other — are only the beginning of the strategies offered. Day-to-day and moment-to-moment techniques plus program slogans and humor provide newcomers with fresh wisdom for maintaining sobriety. - Order today >> Staying Sober - Alcoholism, Addiction & Codependency Recovery Bookstore Hazelden Books, DVD's & Medalions (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3404151 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 03:10:00 +0100 3404151 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3395377&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FnbVUbymk-gI%2F Alcoholism is a disease experienced by the family. Not only is there a significant genetic component that is passed from generation to generation, but the drinking problems of a single family member affect all other family members. The family environment and genetics can perpetuate a vicious and destructive cycle. Many marriages break up over a husband’s or wife’s drinking. Domestic violence typically erupts when one or both spouses have been drinking, and drinking makes domestic violence more dangerous. Families play a critical role in recovery from alcoholism. They can be instrumental in encouraging a family member with alcoholism to seek treatment. Strong family support also increases the chances for successful recovery. Alcoholism and Problem Drinking Pervasive in Family ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3395377 Sun, 21 Mar 2010 22:13:17 +0100 3395377 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3390994&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcohol-and-the-family-2%2F Alcoholism is a disease experienced by the family. Not only is there a significant genetic component that is passed from generation to generation, but the drinking problems of a single family member affect all other family members. The family environment and genetics can perpetuate a vicious and destructive cycle. Many marriages break up over a husband’s or wife’s drinking. Domestic violence typically erupts when one or both spouses have been drinking, and drinking makes domestic violence more dangerous. Families play a critical role in recovery from alcoholism. They can be instrumental in encouraging a family member with alcoholism to seek treatment. Strong family support also increases the chances for successful recovery. Alcoholism and Problem Drinking Pervasive in Family ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3390994 Sun, 21 Mar 2010 22:13:17 +0100 3390994 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3385552&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FFhqV0hG_0sk%2F Are Brief Alcohol Interventions Likely to be Effective in Routine Primary Care Practice? A number of meta-analyses have demonstrated the modest efficacy of brief interventions (BI) for nondependent unhealthy alcohol use in primary care settings. Whether this level of efficacy can be expected when BIs are delivered outside of research studies in not known. This systematic review identified 22 randomized trials including over 5800 patients. Investigators classified the trials on a spectrum from tightly controlled (efficacy design) to real world (effectiveness design) studies. The scale considered whether patients presented to health care with a range of conditions, whether practices delivered a full range of medical services, whether practitioners routinely worked in the service rather than ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3385552 Fri, 19 Mar 2010 23:39:20 +0100 3385552 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3385560&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F083caHwTkLQ%2F Do you use substances or engage in compulsive activities to regulate your mood? Do you reach for something sweet, a couple of drinks, or a pack of cigarettes after a difficult day because you can’t unwind without them? Do you race to the stores to spend away the day’s frustrations or run around in circles taking more time to get less done? If these self-defeating habits sound familiar, Emotional Sobriety will shed light on why and how these coping mechanisms threaten your health and impact resilience. When we manage the stresses of the day by turning to outside ‘mood managers’ such as food, sex, work, shopping, gambling, drugs, and alcohol rather than healthier forms of ’self-soothing,’ it is because we lack emotional sobriety–the state of proc... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3385560 Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:02:00 +0100 3385560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3385553&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FOrlbEkCK6-U%2F Drug commonly used for alcoholism craving curbs urges of pathological gamblers A drug commonly used to treat alcohol addiction has a similar effect on pathological gamblers – it curbs the urge to gamble and participate in gambling-related behavior, according to a new research at the University of Minnesota. Seventy-seven people participated in the double-blind, placebo controlled study. Fifty-eight men and women took 50, 100, or 150 milligrams of naltrexone every day for 18 weeks. Forty percent of the 49 participants who took the drug and completed the study, quit gambling for at least one month. Their urge to gamble also significantly dropped in intensity and frequency. The other 19 participants took a placebo. But, only 10.5 percent of those who took the placebo were able to a... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3385553 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 23:38:42 +0100 3385553 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3383091&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FyQpzRLqK4v4%2F Acquired brain injury refers to any brain damage that happens after birth. Alcohol is one of the many causes of acquired brain injury. The injury inflicted by alcohol abuse is referred to as alcohol related brain injury (ARBI). More than 2,500 Australians are treated for ARBI every year. Just how much damage is done depends on a number of factors. These include individual differences, as well as the person’s age, gender, nutrition and their overall pattern of alcohol consumption. A person with ARBI might experience problems with memory, thinking abilities and physical coordination. A younger person has a better chance of recovery because of their greater powers of recuperation. However, the effects of alcohol related brain injury can be permanent for many sufferers. Alcohol and br... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3383091 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 21:53:20 +0100 3383091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3385554&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FfVTX96h70L4%2F Update on neuropharmacological treatments for alcoholism: Scientific basis and clinical findings. The past decade has seen an expansion of research and knowledge on pharmacotherapy for the treatment of alcohol dependence. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications naltrexone and acamprosate have shown mixed results in clinical trials. Oral naltrexone and naltrexone depot formulations have generally demonstrated efficacy at treating alcohol dependence, but their treatment effect size is small, and more research is needed to compare the effects of different doses on drinking outcome. Acamprosate has demonstrated efficacy for treating alcohol dependence in European trials, but with a small effect size. In U.S. trials, acamprosate has not proved to be efficacious. Research ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3385554 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 23:35:27 +0100 3385554 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3385557&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FkAEUjRf7Lwk%2F This study points to the promise of research on gene-medication interactions to refine treatment selection, improve clinical results, and inform ongoing medications development.” The research was published in the Feb. 4, 2008 issue of the Archives of General Psychiatry. See also; Brief-TSF can assist patients cease alcohol consumption. Anti-craving Naltrexone Injection Reduces Drinking Related Reading: Share/SaveRandom ArticlesScience of AddictionAlcoholics Anonymous and NursingRates of Relapse to Alcohol AbusePredictors of help-seeking in drinkers10 Elements of Effective Drug Addiction Treatment (Source: Twelve Step Facilitation.com) Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3385557 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 23:09:55 +0100 3385557 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3385558&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FzZiUr-l-Z4c%2F The Role of Uncontrollable Trauma in the Development of PTSD and Alcohol Addiction By Joseph Volpicelli, M.D., Ph.D.; Geetha Balaraman; Julie Hahn; Heather Wallace, M.A.; and Donald Bux, Ph.D. After a traumatic event, people often report using alcohol to relieve their symptoms of anxiety, irritability, and depression. Alcohol may relieve these symptoms because drinking compensates for deficiencies in endorphin activity following a traumatic experience. Within minutes of exposure to a traumatic event there is an increase in the level of endorphins in the brain. During the time of the trauma, endorphin levels remain elevated and help numb the emotional and physical pain of the trauma. However, after the trauma is over, endorphin levels gradually decrease and this may lead to a period of endo... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3385558 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 23:09:52 +0100 3385558 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3370680&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FvqSexr-UG8Q%2F Biomarkers in Alcohol Misuse: Their Role in the Prevention and Detection of Thiamine Deficiency In Western countries alcohol misuse is the most frequent cause of thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency (TD) and consequent neuro-impairment. Studies have demonstrated that between 30 and 80% of alcoholics are thiamine deficient, and this puts them at risk of developing the Wernicke–Korsakoff (WK) syndrome. The relative roles of alcohol and TD in causing brain damage remain controversial and it is important to try to determine the role played by each factor. Animal studies support an additive effect of alcohol exposure and TD, and indicate the potential for interaction between alcohol and TD in human alcohol-related brain damage. Early diagnosis of alcohol-related TD is therefore an important ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3370680 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 22:02:24 +0100 3370680 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3350587&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FH9aSNdTBE9k%2F Health impacts of long term alcohol misuse Long term abuse of alcohol creates medical risks to individuals and may contribute to many cases of illness and premature death. On death certificates ‘alcohol-related’ is often not stated. Long term health impacts of alcohol misuse Liver disorders: hepatitis, cirrhosis of the liver, cancer of the liver (most alcohol specific fatalities recorded result from chronic liver disease and cirrhosis i) Gastrointestinal problems: pancreatitis; cancer of the oesophagus; digestive problems; gastritis Nerve and muscle damage: weakness; burning sensations in hands/feet; paralysis Circulatory problems: high blood pressure (hypertension), stroke Cancer: the voice box [larynx]), the throat (treble the risk) and the gullet (double the risk) as well... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3350587 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 03:15:00 +0100 3350587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3370681&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2Fzq13ho7H55A%2F CONCLUSIONS: The Chilean version of the AUDIT is a valid and reliable tool for identifying adolescents with hazardous, harmful, and dependent alcohol use. The suggested cut-off points make screening with the AUDIT more accurate for adolescent populations. Research; Drug Alcohol Depend. 2009 Aug 1;103(3):155-8. Epub 2009 May 6. The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) as a screening instrument for adolescents. Santis R, Garmendia ML, Acuña G, Alvarado ME, Arteaga O. See also; 12-Step Treatment More Effective than Alternative Brief-TSF ASSESSMENT Brief-TSF can assist patients cease alcohol consumption. Learn about the disease Youth With Alcohol and Drug Addiction: Escape from Bondage (Helping Youth With Mental, Physical, and Social Challenges) by Kenneth McIntosh ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3370681 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 21:53:36 +0100 3370681 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3350574&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2F4vCu8It114E%2F   Episodes of intimate partner violence are associated with alcohol consumption. To explore this relationship further, researchers interviewed a random sample of heterosexual couples at baseline and 5 years later. They assessed alcohol use and related problems, and the incidence (new cases) and recurrence (cases at both follow-up and baseline) of male-to-female partner violence and female-to-male partner violence. Analyses included 1136 couples who were cohabitating and/or married at both baseline and follow-up. Partner violence was defined as a range of violent behaviors, such as slapping, kicking, forcing sex, and threatening with a gun or knife. At follow-up, the incidence of both female-to-male and male-to-female partner violence was only 6 percent. However, recurrence was more c... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3350574 Sun, 07 Mar 2010 21:18:40 +0100 3350574 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3350575&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FPZml90W4rN4%2F Bipolar Patients with Comorbid Substance Use Disorders; Diagnostic and Treatment Considerations: Comorbidity of bipolar disorder (BD) and alcoholism and substance use disorders (SUDs) represents a serious public health problem and a major challenge to treatment systems. Bipolar disorder is among the top causes of disabilities worldwide, and reportedly the fourth leading mental illness as a source of disease burden in established market economies. Large epidemiologic surveys in the United States have consistently confirmed a high association between bipolar disorder and SUDs. The Epidemiological Catchments Area Study reported bipolar I and bipolar II disorders as having the highest association with SUDs when compared with any other major psychiatric disorder. The prevalence of lifetime al... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3350575 Sat, 06 Mar 2010 21:11:41 +0100 3350575 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3350576&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FaKdgGTvNdcY%2F This study was designed to examine aggression in a group of socially well-adapted recovered alcoholics. The question addressed was whether the treatment, together with long-term abstinence from alcohol, could reduce aggression and hostility in recovered alcoholics. Sixty four male stable alcoholics with at least 3 years sobriety were compared with 69 non-alcoholics. Neither group had any other psychological problems. Both groups were given a questionnaire on general characteristics as well as aggressive and hostility traits. After a 3-year abstinence, men from the recovering alcoholics group displayed greater signs of hostility and covert aggression. They were different from non-alcoholics on measures for indirect aggression, irritability, negativism, suspicion, resentment, and guilt. Re... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3350576 Fri, 05 Mar 2010 21:05:53 +0100 3350576 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3327309&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcoholism-and-fear-2%2F Curiosity about recovery Fear Mixed with Alcohol The primary cause of alcoholism is not positively known in the present knowledge of the problem. Nor do we believe that the cause in most instances is singular, but usually a combination of causes. However, we are of the opinion that to date that one of the best-defined psychological cause for alcoholism is the one given in Sobriety and Beyond that defined the cause of alcoholism as “Fear mixed with alcohol.” By this is meant that the average alcoholic is a drinker who has an abnormal fear. Although this tendency is present in most human beings to a certain extent, it is emphatically obvious in the alcoholic personality, and because of emotional damage, which now may not even be in the consciousness, will cause abnormal insecurity and fe... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3327309 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 18:16:00 +0100 3327309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3318667&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FmKEXGKJYPkY%2F Curiosity about recovery Fear Mixed with Alcohol The primary cause of alcoholism is not positively known in the present knowledge of the problem. Nor do we believe that the cause in most instances is singular, but usually a combination of causes. However, we are of the opinion that to date that one of the best-defined psychological cause for alcoholism is the one given in Sobriety and Beyond that defined the cause of alcoholism as “Fear mixed with alcohol.” By this is meant that the average alcoholic is a drinker who has an abnormal fear. Although this tendency is present in most human beings to a certain extent, it is emphatically obvious in the alcoholic personality, and because of emotional damage, which now may not even be in the consciousness, will cause abnormal insecurity and fe... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3318667 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 18:16:00 +0100 3318667 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3316254&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FC7uuQ3epYOc%2F Liz Scott Sober Cooking All About Mocktails: Drinks for Sober Celebrations There was a time when nondrinkers had very few choices when it came to specialty drinks. Shirley Temples and Virgin Marys were the typical options – otherwise a club soda or cola was the usual request for kids and abstaining adults alike. But times have certainly changed! Bartender extraordinaire Tony Abou-Ganim of Las Vegas designed a special “mocktail” for Paris Hilton’s birthday party, and alcohol-free pomegranate spritzers were served on an episode of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy. With more and more folks abstaining from the hard stuff, hosts need to offer mocktails as well as soft drinks when they entertain if they hope to throw a memorable party for their alcohol-shunning guests. So, what... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3316254 Sat, 27 Feb 2010 18:49:54 +0100 3316254 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3302656&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fcan-an-alcoholic-be-forced-into-treatment%2F You can be a bridge to recovery If an alcoholic is unwilling to get help, what can you do about it? This can be a challenge. An alcoholic can’t be forced to get help except under certain circumstances, such as a traffic violation or arrest that results in court-ordered treatment. But you don’t have to wait for someone to “hit rock bottom” to act. Many alcoholism treatment specialists suggest the following steps to help an alcoholic get treatment: Stop all “cover ups.” Family members often make excuses to others or try to protect the alcoholic from the results of his or her drinking. It is important to stop covering for the alcoholic so that he or she experiences the full consequences of drinking. Time your intervention. The best time to talk to the drink... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3302656 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 09:18:49 +0100 3302656 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3298607&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FP9LkNzBATDU%2F You can be a bridge to recovery If an alcoholic is unwilling to get help, what can you do about it? This can be a challenge. An alcoholic can’t be forced to get help except under certain circumstances, such as a traffic violation or arrest that results in court-ordered treatment. But you don’t have to wait for someone to “hit rock bottom” to act. Many alcoholism treatment specialists suggest the following steps to help an alcoholic get treatment: Stop all “cover ups.” Family members often make excuses to others or try to protect the alcoholic from the results of his or her drinking. It is important to stop covering for the alcoholic so that he or she experiences the full consequences of drinking. Time your intervention. The best time to talk to the drink... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3298607 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 09:18:49 +0100 3298607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3302644&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FoOGM0cR8XQI%2F Alcoholism Is Not Just A “Man’s Disease” Anymore A new examination of data on similarly aged groups, compared across decades, has found substantial increases in drinking and alcohol dependence among women. Increases were particularly notable among white and Hispanic women – beginning with those born in the United States after World War II. Cross-sectional studies, which collect information at a single point in time, generally find that young Americans report having more lifetime alcohol problems than older Americans, despite having had less time to develop these problems.  But these studies are hampered by the fact that people of different ages may remember or report problems to different degrees.  A new examination of data, collected on similarly aged g... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3302644 Fri, 19 Feb 2010 19:02:03 +0100 3302644 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3302645&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FrTPinL0d25A%2F Researchers say that men with clinical depression are more likely to kill themselves if they drink heavily or also suffer from a type of personality disorder known for aggressive and impulsive behavior, Reuters reported Dec. 23. Researcher Gustavo Turecki and colleagues looked at a group of men with major depressive disorder, including 104 who committed suicide and 74 percent who are living. They found that those who were classified as alcohol abusers or dependent were four times more likely to kill themselves, while those with “Cluster B” personality disorders were 17 times more likely to commit suicide. “Why some patients with major depressive disorder die by suicide while others with seemingly the same disorder do not, is a question of enormous clinical relevance,&#822... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3302645 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 18:43:01 +0100 3302645 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3288032&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fdifficult-words-to-say-when-you-are-drunk%2F . Specificity Indubitably Innovative Preliminary Proliferation Cinnamon British Constitution Impossible Words to Say When You Are Drunk Thanks, but I don’t want sex. No, I don’t want another drink. No kebab for me thank you. Sorry, but you’re not good looking enough for me. Good evening officer I’m not interested in fighting you. No one wants to hear me sing. Seriously though – Words that must be said if you’re an alcoholic. I need help. I have been in denial. Please help me. I need to talk to an Alcoholics Anonymous member. I think about alcohol to the exclusion of more important things. I have a problem with alcohol. I cannot guarantee what I will do once I start drinking. My life is a mess due to alcohol. Most times I cannot guarantee how much I will d... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3288032 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 09:27:45 +0100 3288032 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3283824&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FaZbX-U9QhT8%2F . Specificity Indubitably Innovative Preliminary Proliferation Cinnamon British Constitution Impossible Words to Say When You Are Drunk Thanks, but I don’t want sex. No, I don’t want another drink. No kebab for me thank you. Sorry, but you’re not good looking enough for me. Good evening officer I’m not interested in fighting you. No one wants to hear me sing. Seriously though – Words that must be said if you’re an alcoholic. I need help. I have been in denial. Please help me. I need to talk to an Alcoholics Anonymous member. I think about alcohol to the exclusion of more important things. I have a problem with alcohol. I cannot guarantee what I will do once I start drinking. My life is a mess due to alcohol. Most times I cannot guarantee how much I will d... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3283824 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 09:27:45 +0100 3283824 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3302646&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FjSQns0BSG2c%2F This study examined women’s experiences with addiction to drugs and/or alcohol and their process of recovery. The techniques of in-depth interviews and participant observations were employed to elicit the perspectives of the women. The study consisted of 12 participants, 6 who were currently involved in a 90-day community-based drug and alcohol treatment program and 6 who had more than five years of recovery. Grounded theory method guided data collection and analysis. The women in this study described experiences of connectedness and disconnectedness throughout their lives, their addiction, and their recovery. The researcher constructed a substantive theory and model to explain this process of connectedness and disconnectedness. The findings support that making connections and esta... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3302646 Wed, 17 Feb 2010 18:25:57 +0100 3302646 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3283830&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FBVflGFkvShk%2F This report is somewhat obvious to many women but sometimes it is reassuring to know there are others also suffering. Violence by alcoholic men toward their partners is common, especially on the days men drink; rates have been estimated at 50% to 65% in those starting alcoholism treatment. Cohabitating women are the victims of violent crime or multiple injuries, mood and anxiety disorders, and fair or poor health. The risks were two to three times higher in these women than in partners of men without alcohol problems. Women with a partner with alcohol problems experienced 46% more negative life events, and they rated their psychological and physical quality of life 11% lower, than did women without partner alcohol problems. Reference; Dawson DA et al. The impact of partner alcohol problems... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3283830 Tue, 16 Feb 2010 06:21:53 +0100 3283830 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3276086&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fdomestic-violence-by-alcoholic-men%2F This report is somewhat obvious to many women but sometimes it is reassuring to know there are others also suffering. Violence by alcoholic men toward their partners is common, especially on the days men drink; rates have been estimated at 50% to 65% in those starting alcoholism treatment. Cohabitating women are the victims of violent crime or multiple injuries, mood and anxiety disorders, and fair or poor health. The risks were two to three times higher in these women than in partners of men without alcohol problems. Women with a partner with alcohol problems experienced 46% more negative life events, and they rated their psychological and physical quality of life 11% lower, than did women without partner alcohol problems. Reference; Dawson DA et al. The impact of partner alcohol problems... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3276086 Tue, 16 Feb 2010 06:21:53 +0100 3276086 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3283833&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FS_QZOK29BhY%2F Recovering brain Brain Has Remarkable Power to Recover from Alcohol Ravages Excessive alcohol use can literally shrink the brain, impairing memory, learning, and organizational skills. But the brain also can recover most if not all of its capabilities when drinking stops, researchers say. The Los Angeles Times reported Jan. 22, that studies and thinking tests were used to track the brain changes in a group of alcoholics as they embarked on the road to sobriety. They found that after just two months of abstinence, the alcoholics’ brain volume increased an average of 1.85 percent, while the communication efficiency of their brain cells rose 20 percent. These chemical changes were matched by improvements in tests of thinking function. Researchers found that the changes only took place a... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3283833 Tue, 16 Feb 2010 05:04:39 +0100 3283833 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3276089&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fbrain-recovers-from-alcohol-damage%2F Recovering brain Brain Has Remarkable Power to Recover from Alcohol Ravages Excessive alcohol use can literally shrink the brain, impairing memory, learning, and organizational skills. But the brain also can recover most if not all of its capabilities when drinking stops, researchers say. The Los Angeles Times reported Jan. 22, that studies and thinking tests were used to track the brain changes in a group of alcoholics as they embarked on the road to sobriety. They found that after just two months of abstinence, the alcoholics’ brain volume increased an average of 1.85 percent, while the communication efficiency of their brain cells rose 20 percent. These chemical changes were matched by improvements in tests of thinking function. Researchers found that the changes only took place a... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3276089 Tue, 16 Feb 2010 05:04:39 +0100 3276089 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3276093&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fpartners-of-alcoholics%2F Partner’s Criticism Linked to Alcoholic Relapse A new study published in Behavior Therapy apparently confirms that Al-Anon’s purpose of offering “understanding and encouragement” to those with drinking problems is best approach family members can take in dealing with the situation. The study, conducted by William Fals-Stewart of the State University of New York at Buffalo, found that men recovering from substance abuse are less successful if they believe their spouse or partner is critical of them, rather than supportive. The study found that of 106 married men studied, those who reported greater criticism from their partners were more likely to have relapsed, regardless of the severity of their drug problem, age or race. Al-Anon is a support groups for those who are affect... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3276093 Mon, 15 Feb 2010 01:42:00 +0100 3276093 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3273084&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FeJIccs5SI5I%2F Partner’s Criticism Linked to Alcoholic Relapse A new study published in Behavior Therapy apparently confirms that Al-Anon’s purpose of offering “understanding and encouragement” to those with drinking problems is best approach family members can take in dealing with the situation. The study, conducted by William Fals-Stewart of the State University of New York at Buffalo, found that men recovering from substance abuse are less successful if they believe their spouse or partner is critical of them, rather than supportive. The study found that of 106 married men studied, those who reported greater criticism from their partners were more likely to have relapsed, regardless of the severity of their drug problem, age or race. Al-Anon is a support groups for those who are affect... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3273084 Mon, 15 Feb 2010 01:42:00 +0100 3273084 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3269882&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcoholic-mental-health-and-personality%2F Mental health and personality traits in alcohol-dependent patients: a comparative study. The aim of this research study was to describe the mental health and personality profile associated with alcohol dependence (alcoholism) and to compare it with those of non-addictive disorders and the normal population. The groups were; 158 alcohol-dependent patients in treatment, 120 psychiatric patients with non-addictive disorders and 103 participants from the general population chosen to match the patient samples for age, gender and socioeconomic level. All participants were assessed with different instruments related to personality, mental health and personality disorders. Patients from both the alcoholic and psychiatric groups had more symptoms of anxiety and depression than the healthy partici... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3269882 Fri, 12 Feb 2010 20:26:39 +0100 3269882 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3267205&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FJIqYh2Sos6A%2F Al-Anon Speaks for Itself A wife, father, husband, and daughter describe what it is like to love someone who has a drinking problem. The wife says, “I didn’t live in reality at all. I covered up and made believe.” The father says, “When the police came and told me the charges against my son, it was unbelievable. To see my son taken away in handcuffs was the most difficult day of my life.” To the right of the YouTube panel you will find other videos about Al-anon. Click here for the YouTube video; Al-Anon Speak Part 1 Al-anon Speak part II Al-anon Speak part III Al-anon Speak part IV See also; Al-anon / Alateen Recovery MP3 tracks for all 12-Step Fellowships Self-care Boundaries Language of Letting Go A Woman’s Way Through The Twelve Steps Related R... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3267205 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 19:01:47 +0100 3267205 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3267206&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FIWEiwmvaa7k%2F Families may be reunited with Al-anons help Research proves that the Al-anon method of encouragement and support is one of the best ways to help a recovering addict stay sober A recent American clinical study examined the effect of perceived criticism on relapse back to substance abuse, and found that the perception of criticism was a very significant factor leading to relapse. Families can best help in the recovery process by remaining encouraging and supportive, and additionally attending both therapy with the alcoholic, as well as some form of family support organization. The Al Anon philosophy: Al-Anon has but one purpose to help families of alcoholics. We do this by practicing the Twelve Steps, by welcoming and giving comfort to families of alcoholics, and by giving understanding and... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3267206 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 18:47:52 +0100 3267206 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3259271&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FpPwalH4xnAQ%2F Liz Scott Recovery Cooking In the Sober Kitchen by Liz Scott So, what exactly do we mean by a “sober kitchen?”  Although it means much more than merely removing alcohol containing ingredients from our cupboards and fridge, striving for an alcohol-free kitchen is definitely a good place to start. Why is this important?  Because contrary to the old wives’ tale, alcohol does not burn off in the cooking process. In 1989 a USDA study proved that between 5% and 85% of the alcohol added to a dish is retained depending upon the cooking method, type of alcohol used, and the amount of time it is exposed to heat. Indeed, the act of flambéing, or setting a pan alight, actually retains a whopping 75%!  Surprised?  I was too, but even more surprising was that addiction researchers discovered... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3259271 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 02:53:38 +0100 3259271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3259272&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F2qZoq9gmWQ8%2F Dr tansplanting a cirrhotic liver Health Risks of Alcohol: 12 Health Problems Associated with Chronic Heavy Drinking It’s no secret that alcohol consumption can cause major health problems, including cirrhosis of the liver and injuries sustained in automobile accidents. But if you think liver disease and car crashes are the only health risks posed by drinking, think again: Researchers have linked alcohol consumption to more than 60 diseases. “Alcohol does all kinds of things in the body, and we’re not fully aware of all its effects,” says James C. Garbutt, MD, “It’s a pretty complicated little molecule.” Here are 12 conditions linked to chronic heavy drinking. Anemia This can trigger a host of symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, and l... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3259272 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 16:18:03 +0100 3259272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3254730&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F12-health-risks-of-heavy-drinking%2F Dr tansplanting a cirrhotic liver Health Risks of Alcohol: 12 Health Problems Associated with Chronic Heavy Drinking It’s no secret that alcohol consumption can cause major health problems, including cirrhosis of the liver and injuries sustained in automobile accidents. But if you think liver disease and car crashes are the only health risks posed by drinking, think again: Researchers have linked alcohol consumption to more than 60 diseases. “Alcohol does all kinds of things in the body, and we’re not fully aware of all its effects,” says James C. Garbutt, MD, “It’s a pretty complicated little molecule.” Here are 12 conditions linked to chronic heavy drinking. Anemia This can trigger a host of symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, and l... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3254730 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 16:18:03 +0100 3254730 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3259277&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fh4NsCuhtg7E%2F Alcoholism is a primary, chronic, progressive disorder that has a predictable course; with inherited, physical, psychological and environmental risk factors; and is fatal if not treated and its progress arrested. A Disease of the Brain Alcoholism is also a brain disease because alcohol changes the brain—it changes its structure, how it works and how it thinks. These brain changes can be long lasting, and lead to the harmful behaviors seen in people who are alcoholic. Primary Alcoholism is not the result of another disorder but it is a causative factor in other disorders. Chronic Alcoholism is a chronic condition that continues over a long time, progresses consistently or intermittently, and can be managed. Progressive and Predictable As an addictive drug, alcohol use over time can lead t... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3259277 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 13:28:29 +0100 3259277 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3254735&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhat-is-alcoholism%2F Alcoholism is a primary, chronic, progressive disorder that has a predictable course; with inherited, physical, psychological and environmental risk factors; and is fatal if not treated and its progress arrested. A Disease of the Brain Alcoholism is also a brain disease because alcohol changes the brain—it changes its structure, how it works and how it thinks. These brain changes can be long lasting, and lead to the harmful behaviors seen in people who are alcoholic. Primary Alcoholism is not the result of another disorder but it is a causative factor in other disorders. Chronic Alcoholism is a chronic condition that continues over a long time, progresses consistently or intermittently, and can be managed. Progressive and Predictable As an addictive drug, alcohol use over time can lead t... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3254735 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 13:28:29 +0100 3254735 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3254736&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhat-is-relapse-2%2F Relapse - One drop in not a flood Relapse is defined as returning to drinking or drugging after a period of not drinking – abstinence. Relapse to drinking does not come on suddenly and without warning, it is a process over time. Staying clean/sober is not recovery, working a program and finding some serenity and peace is sobriety. Relapse cannot be avoided by shear willpower of self-discipline. SELF-TEST FOR RELAPSE WARNING SIGNALS Here is a simple list of relapse symptoms. Lack of personal confidence to remain clean/sober or abstinent. Denial Convincing yourself that you will never ever drink or use again. You start imposing recovery on other people. You become defensive when talking about your problem is recovery. Compulsive behavior appears, you adopt a non-structured lifestyle. ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3254736 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 12:48:29 +0100 3254736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251400&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fcontrol-freak%2F Do you want to control life like a canal controls water Controllism Questionnaire. Many people in recovery from alcoholism, co-dependency and gambling find they have issues relating to control and submission. To find a comfortable medium one needs to examine the extremes. This is one extreme. Do you find yourself serious most of the time so that having fun is difficult for you? Do you find yourself feeling insecure and lonely even in the company of others? Have you ever felt yourself living a life of quiet desperation? Do you often hide your true feelings? Do you either try to make everything “smooth” or do you try to disrupt and stir things up? Do you have long lists and reminders of what you would like to see accomplished and do you get upset if these aren’t fulfilled... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251400 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 13:20:29 +0100 3251400 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251402&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fdental-infections-in-recovery%2F This article from the American Academy of Family Physicians may help identify problems. What is dental caries? Dental caries (CARE-eez) is an infection caused by certain bacteria (germs) in your mouth. It destroys the enamel (the hard outer layer) and dentin (the bone-like tissue under the enamel) of your teeth. More common names for dental caries are cavities and tooth decay. How can I prevent dental caries? Taking care of your mouth is important. You and your family should visit a dentist each year, starting at one year of age. You should brush and floss twice a day with toothpaste that contains fluoride (FLOOR-ide). You can start teaching children to brush with a small amount of low-fluoride toothpaste when they are two years old. After six years of age, children can use regular fluorid... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251402 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 12:54:44 +0100 3251402 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251405&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fdelirium-tremens%2F The DT’s “That year I went to an alcohol treatment program twice. The first time I was in treatment, I was shaving at the mirror in the bathroom and it seemed to me that my beard was growing back in as fast as I could shave it off. Even though I was in a hospital gown, I escaped, running down the streets and jumping up and over fences. I was on the porch of a woman’s house banging on the door for her to let me in when the police arrived. I tried to convince them she was my wife and my children were inside, but they saw the hospital bracelet on my wrist, and they took me back to the program. … “The doctor told me that if I went into DTs like that again I might not come out.” Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th Ed, p 482. See also; One Day at a Time Slogan Does AA Work? Tw... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251405 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 08:40:19 +0100 3251405 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251406&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fundoing-denial-is-first-step%2F Denial is distorted reality Breaking through denial is alcoholic’s, addict’s first step in recovery Looking in the mirror and accepting what we see can be one of the hardest things we ever do. It’s especially hard when the image staring us in the face is painful or doesn’t fit with how we want to see ourselves. Sometimes, the truth is so painful that we avoid it at any cost. Refusing to accept a painful reality that alters the perception of ourselves is a psychological defense called denial. As human beings, we may use denial to protect ourselves from knowledge, insight or awareness that threatens our self-esteem, mental or physical health, or security. The term “denial” is often used in the chemical dependency field to describe people who deny substanc... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251406 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 08:19:29 +0100 3251406 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3248704&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FwbybO1Vl6Og%2F This article will discuss the ism’s and associated fears. The Ism’s These ism’s are part of normal life, everyone has them to varying degrees. Specifically, the ism’s are an attempt to make life bearable, as a way of “interpersonal control and coping.” This is, of course, what we all strive to do on a day-to-day basis, we need these thinking patterns and behaviours to cope, most people seem to be doing alright, while the alcoholic seems to be sinking fast. One of the main ism’s with alcoholism is the ism of fear. Fears Recovery is mostly about letting go of fear. In fact, fear produces most all my insane moments. Any time I need a reality check, I try to stop and ask myself if there is a fear at the root of what I’m doing. These are the fear demons I’ve id... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3248704 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 11:53:12 +0100 3248704 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3248708&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FFnkB_lPgJlc%2F Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction This, 30-page, full-color booklet explains in layman’s terms how science has revolutionized the understanding of drug addiction as a brain disease that affects behavior. The ‘Science of Addiction’ booklet discusses the reasons people take drugs, why some people become addicted while others do not, how drugs work in the brain, and how addiction can be prevented and treated. The booklet is available to read, download or order at: http://www.drugabuse.gov/scienceofaddiction/ http://www.drugabuse.gov/scienceofaddiction/sciofaddiction.pdf Publication Year: 2007 Publisher US National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) Website: http://www.nida.nih.gov Related Reading: (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3248708 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 02:29:40 +0100 3248708 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3223492&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FOXJ56Txguc8%2F Family Recovery Family recovery is one of the keys to treatment for alcoholism. Alcoholics and alcohol abusers attract more public attention, but their families and friends also suffer long-term effects from alcoholism-and their recovery may be essential to the alcoholic’s recovery, according to a leading researcher in the field. “Alcoholism is a family disease. While it is important for the family to support the alcoholic’s recovery, it is also important for members of the family to get involved in their own recovery. Family recovery decreases the chances that the children of alcoholics will repeat the pattern and engage in unhealthy relationships,” said Robert J. Ackerman, Ph.D., cofounder of the National Association for Children of Alcoholics and director of the Mid-Atla... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3223492 Sat, 30 Jan 2010 11:20:31 +0100 3223492 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3205120&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2F6u9jo47XBgs%2F   New medications for addiction treatment can significantly improve treatment outcomes for many patients, especially when combined with counseling, support and aftercare. This free online course helps addiction treatment counselors understand how these medications work with the brain mechanisms involved in alcohol dependence, and how medications can be part of a comprehensive treatment program that helps patients regain control over their lives. Author’s Welcome and IntroductionAn outline of this program from Carlo C. DiClemente, PhD Main Presentation, Part 1An overview of alcohol dependence, focusing on the epidemiology of alcohol dependence, diagnosing alcohol dependence and misuse, and the effects of alcohol on the brain. We also introduce medications for alcohol dependence.... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3205120 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 12:48:21 +0100 3205120 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3201908&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fpartner-enabling-of-alcoholism-2%2F Enabling is like a dam holding back responsibility Enabling is the ideas, feelings, attitudes, and behaviors that unintentionally continue to foster drinking, alcohol related problems or make matters worse by not allowing the alcoholic to deal with the consequences of their alcoholism. Enabling is part of the set of behaviors practiced by codependents of alcoholism. Researchers report that the majority of partners took over chores or duties from the alcoholic client at some point during the relationship, drank or used other drugs with the client, and lied or made excuses to others to cover for the drinker. Moreover, particular relationship beliefs were associated with higher behavioural enabling scores. Enabling Behaviors are practiced in four forms; Direct Enabling The behavior that acts ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3201908 Sun, 24 Jan 2010 03:53:00 +0100 3201908 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3201899&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2F55LfL-pV_F8%2F CONCLUSIONS: Nicotine dependence represents a general marker of psychiatric comorbidity, particularly of addictive comorbidity. It may be used as a screening measure for psychiatric diagnoses in clinical practice as well as in future trials. Research report; Le Strat Y, Ramoz N, Gorwood P. In Alcohol-Dependent Drinkers, What Does the Presence of Nicotine Dependence Tell Us About Psychiatric and Addictive Disorders Comorbidity? Alcohol Alcohol. 2010 Jan 20. See also; Alcoholic, Addictive Behaviors Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome Are Families Affected by Alcoholism? What are the Styles of Enablers? Hazelden Books and Resources Related Reading: Share/Save (Source: Twelve Step Facilitation.com) Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3201899 Sat, 23 Jan 2010 09:55:53 +0100 3201899 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3200660&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Fnicotine-as-a-marker-for-alcohol-psychiatric-disorders%2F CONCLUSIONS: Nicotine dependence represents a general marker of psychiatric comorbidity, particularly of addictive comorbidity. It may be used as a screening measure for psychiatric diagnoses in clinical practice as well as in future trials. Research report; Le Strat Y, Ramoz N, Gorwood P. In Alcohol-Dependent Drinkers, What Does the Presence of Nicotine Dependence Tell Us About Psychiatric and Addictive Disorders Comorbidity? Alcohol Alcohol. 2010 Jan 20. See also; Alcoholic, Addictive Behaviors Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome Are Families Affected by Alcoholism? What are the Styles of Enablers? Hazelden Books and Resources Related Reading: Share/Save (Source: Twelve Step Facilitation.com) Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3200660 Sat, 23 Jan 2010 09:55:53 +0100 3200660 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3201900&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FlFfGCE7iHbg%2F Conclusion: Results are consistent with previous studies showing that shorter-term outcomes are likely to be maintained, and that baseline characteristics and treatment factors account less for outcomes over longer terms. Research; Maria C. Bodin & Anders Romelsjö. Predictors of 2-Year Drinking Outcomes in a Swedish Treatment Sample. European Addiction Research 2007;13:136-143 Related Reading: Share/Save (Source: Twelve Step Facilitation.com) Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3201900 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 11:30:11 +0100 3201900 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3197897&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Faggression-and-hostility-in-recovered-alcoholics%2F This study was designed to examine aggression in a group of socially well-adapted recovered alcoholics. The question addressed was whether the treatment, together with long-term abstinence from alcohol, could reduce aggression and hostility in recovered alcoholics. Sixty four male stable alcoholics with at least 3 years sobriety were compared with 69 non-alcoholics. Neither group had any other psychological problems. Both groups were given a questionnaire on general characteristics as well as aggressive and hostility traits. After a 3-year abstinence, men from the recovering alcoholics group displayed greater signs of hostility and covert aggression. They were different from non-alcoholics on measures for indirect aggression, irritability, negativism, suspicion, resentment, and guilt. Re... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3197897 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:02:03 +0100 3197897 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3194028&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FEMANBeessaI%2F This study was designed to examine aggression in a group of socially well-adapted recovered alcoholics. The question addressed was whether the treatment, together with long-term abstinence from alcohol, could reduce aggression and hostility in recovered alcoholics. Sixty four male stable alcoholics with at least 3 years sobriety were compared with 69 non-alcoholics. Neither group had any other psychological problems. Both groups were given a questionnaire on general characteristics as well as aggressive and hostility traits. After a 3-year abstinence, men from the recovering alcoholics group displayed greater signs of hostility and covert aggression. They were different from non-alcoholics on measures for indirect aggression, irritability, negativism, suspicion, resentment, and guilt. Re... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3194028 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:02:03 +0100 3194028 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3189415&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fd1nSuXbFK9Q%2F Clues about alcohol related brain damage can be gathered by observing the person’s mood, behaviour, daily functioning and coping skills. Here are some examples of common indicators: Mood changes – anxiety, agitation or depression Behavioural changes – difficult behaviour, acting out, suspicious or paranoid behaviour, withdrawal, inappropriate behaviour Confusion and disorientation Talking excessively about, and living in, the past Problems carrying through with plans and getting around to chores Disconnection of gas, electricity or the phone Missed appointments Repetitious conversation Problems staying focused in conversation Resistance to change Confabulation Irrational reasoning Inability to change even when the person desires to These symptoms of brain impairment wil... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3189415 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 04:02:00 +0100 3189415 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3185629&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fsymptoms-of-alcohol-related-brain-damage%2F Clues about alcohol related brain damage can be gathered by observing the person’s mood, behaviour, daily functioning and coping skills. Here are some examples of common indicators: Mood changes – anxiety, agitation or depression Behavioural changes – difficult behaviour, acting out, suspicious or paranoid behaviour, withdrawal, inappropriate behaviour Confusion and disorientation Talking excessively about, and living in, the past Problems carrying through with plans and getting around to chores Disconnection of gas, electricity or the phone Missed appointments Repetitious conversation Problems staying focused in conversation Resistance to change Confabulation Irrational reasoning Inability to change even when the person desires to These symptoms of brain impairment wil... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3185629 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 04:02:00 +0100 3185629 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3180412&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fmy-daughters-alcoholism%2F Former US Senator George McGovern Terry: My Daughter’s Life-and-Death Struggle with Alcoholism by George McGovern Review; A harrowing and heartrending tale of alcoholism., November 21, 2003. By Chadwick H. Saxelid “Bookworm” (Concord, CA United States) Former South Dakota senator, and one time Presidential hopeful, George McGovern relates the sad story of his daughter Terry, who’s alcoholism finally killed her when she passed out in a snow filled alley outside of a bar one cold December night. With an objective honest insight into both his daughter and the nature of addiction, McGovern tells how his middle daughter grew up and became mired in an inescapable quicksand of addiction. Having recently lost my wife to the ravages of this disease (ironically this book was one of h... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3180412 Sat, 16 Jan 2010 10:29:11 +0100 3180412 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3178995&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FKJsG2HIbOSA%2F Former US Senator George McGovern Terry: My Daughter’s Life-and-Death Struggle with Alcoholism by George McGovern Review; A harrowing and heartrending tale of alcoholism., November 21, 2003. By Chadwick H. Saxelid “Bookworm” (Concord, CA United States) Former South Dakota senator, and one time Presidential hopeful, George McGovern relates the sad story of his daughter Terry, who’s alcoholism finally killed her when she passed out in a snow filled alley outside of a bar one cold December night. With an objective honest insight into both his daughter and the nature of addiction, McGovern tells how his middle daughter grew up and became mired in an inescapable quicksand of addiction. Having recently lost my wife to the ravages of this disease (ironically this book was one of h... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3178995 Sat, 16 Jan 2010 10:29:11 +0100 3178995 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3201905&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FrYom-hwXcNs%2F 2005 Because A.A. has never attempted to keep formal membership lists, it is extremely difficult to obtain completely accurate figures on total membership at any given time. Some local groups are not listed with the General Service Office. Others do not provide membership data, thus are not recorded on the G.S.O. computer records. The membership figures listed below are based on reports to the General Service Office as of January 1, 2005, plus an average allowance for groups that have not reported their membership. Estimated A.A. Membership and Group Information Groups in U.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52,651 Members in U.S. . . . . . . . . . . .. . 1,190,637 Groups in Canada . . . . . . . . . . .. 4,872 Members in Canada . . . . . . . . . . 95,984 Groups Outside of U.S./Canada . . 45,... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3201905 Sat, 16 Jan 2010 09:50:11 +0100 3201905 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3178996&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FjcQa2Ujv4VM%2F Baby Boomers Swell the Ranks of Problem Drinkers in Nursing Homes A new study shows that the number of problem drinkers in nursing homes is rising, and is expected to sharply increase as Baby Boomers age, the Associated Press reported. “Older people with an alcohol problem are more likely to end up in health-care settings,” said study author Frederic Blow, director of the Veterans Affairs’ Serious Mental Illness Treatment, Research and Evaluation Center in Ann Arbor, Mich. According to Blow’s research alcoholics make up; 5 to 7% in the general population 10 to 15% of those in hospitals or other primary-care settings, 10 to 20% of those in nursing homes, and 5 to 10% of those in community mental-health centers. Blow found that up to 20 percent of the people in nursing home... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3178996 Sat, 16 Jan 2010 08:07:10 +0100 3178996 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3176125&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Fthe-alcohol-withdrawal-syndrome-detox%2F Detoxification from alcohol abuse. The alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) is a common management problem in hospital practice for neurologists, psychiatrists and general physicians alike. Although some patients have mild symptoms and may even be managed in the outpatient setting, others have more severe symptoms or a history of adverse outcomes that requires close inpatient supervision and benzodiazepine therapy. Many patients with AWS have multiple management issues; withdrawal symptoms, delirium tremens (DT’s), the Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome, seizures, depression, polysubstance abuse, electrolyte disturbances and liver disease, These require a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach. Although AWS may be complex, careful evaluation and available treatments should en... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3176125 Fri, 15 Jan 2010 09:33:05 +0100 3176125 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3164052&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FNMqpG27D3mg%2F A recently released study found that women who drink heavily face more severe, long-term health problems than men, HealthScout reported Dec. 27. For the study, researchers interviewed 711 St. Louis, Mo., women and men who were found to be heavy drinkers in a National Institutes of Health study conducted 15 years earlier. The comparison found that the [...] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3164052 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:30:18 +0100 3164052 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3153649&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FiLoNIU_9hRs%2F Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). People usually become infected after coming in contact with blood from an infected person. Sharing needles or other equipment for injecting drugs is the most common way of spreading HCV. The disease also can be spread by sexual contact. About 4 million people in the [...] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3153649 Thu, 07 Jan 2010 13:20:57 +0100 3153649 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3153650&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FQhE9pUK_mtU%2F The biggest obstacle to treatment of alcoholism is getting the alcoholic to break through the denial that is a hallmark of this condition (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3153650 Thu, 07 Jan 2010 13:08:02 +0100 3153650 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3153634&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FseVfQcZvRNo%2F   General Structure of Psychological Defense Whilst the primary defense mechanism of alcoholics is denial therapists may observe other psychological defenses such as those listed below. Although abnormalities in the development of the functioning of ego defenses or defense mechanisms may have a fundamental relationship to the causes of various forms of psychopathology, defenses are not of themselves pathological. They may serve an essential function in maintaining healthy psychological well-being. Primitive Defenses These defenses range in severity from a psychotic level of functioning to borderline psychological functioning. Denial Distortion Projection Neurotic Defenses Controlling Displacement Dissociation Intellectualization Isolation Rationalization Reaction Formation ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3153634 Thu, 07 Jan 2010 06:24:58 +0100 3153634 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3153651&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FE1RH8NejFNs%2F Knowing you are at risk is important, though, because then you can take steps to protect yourself from developing problems with alcohol. (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3153651 Thu, 07 Jan 2010 01:12:26 +0100 3153651 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3142848&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FO4kMak-Y5Js%2F FASDs are 100% preventable if a woman doesn’t drink alcohol while she is pregnant. Learn more about the cause, signs, and treatments and what you can do if you think your child might have an FASD. The Story of Iyal This video tells the story of one family living with FASDs. Every family has unique experiences, challenges, and [...] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3142848 Sun, 03 Jan 2010 21:45:19 +0100 3142848 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3133808&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fsons-of-alcoholics-impacts%2F Son of an Alcoholic? The Early School Years Children of alcoholic parents are not fated to a life of misery, but chances are that they will face hardships that children of non-alcoholic parents will not. Such hardships may include thinking shortfalls that may, in turn, increase the children’s chances of becoming alcoholics themselves later in life. A study in the July issue of Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research examines the link between fathers’ alcoholism and the intellectual, thinking and academic performance of their male, elementary-school-aged children. Children of alcoholics may be at risk for lower intellectual, thinking and academic performance. Children of alcoholics with a co-existing antisocial personality disorder may be at even greater risk. Parental thinkin... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3133808 Thu, 31 Dec 2009 12:37:52 +0100 3133808 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3120614&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Fstricter-sobriety-standards-for-california-health-professionals%2F November 30, 2009 Nurses, doctors, dentists and other health professionals in California who are in treatment for alcohol and other drug problems will now be subject to stricter oversight and could be immediately removed from practice should they relapse, the Los Angeles Times reported. Health workers will now be required to take more than 100 drug tests during their first year in treatment. One positive drug test result will be enough to have a health professional be temporarily suspended from practice. All restrictions to licenses will be posted online for public access. The new standards were created by the state legislature last year to address the way recovery programs for doctors were being handled. The Medical Board of California ended its diversion program in 2008 after several a... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3120614 Fri, 25 Dec 2009 09:18:11 +0100 3120614 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079584&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Fcommunity-helping-and-alcoholics-anonymous%2F CONCLUSIONS: The findings highlight important changes in helping with length of sobriety. As their sobriety accumulates, recovering alcoholics seem to devote less time to informal helping and more time to organized community projects–perhaps indicating evolving needs and abilities. The results also suggest roles for AA and spirituality in encouraging helping, and they indicate that some forms of spirituality relate to AA affiliation. Future work might establish whether and when helping in different domains contributes to the maintenance of abstinence and to other drinking-related outcomes. Research Report; Zemore SE, Kaskutas LA. J Stud Alcohol. 2004 May;65(3):383-91. Helping, spirituality and Alcoholics Anonymous in recovery. Subscribe to RSS feed for regular updates. Related Rea... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079584 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 20:35:33 +0100 3079584 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3037091&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcoholism-what-is-it%2F Alcoholism is a term with multiple and sometimes conflicting definitions. In common and historic usage, alcoholism refers to any condition that results in the continued consumption of alcoholic beverages despite the health problems and negative social consequences it causes. Medical definitions describe alcoholism as a disease which results in a persistent use of alcohol despite negative consequences. Alcoholism may also refer to a preoccupation with or compulsion toward the consumption of alcohol and/or an impaired ability to recognize the negative effects of excessive alcohol consumption. Although not all of these definitions specify current and on-going use of alcohol, some do, as well as remarking on the long-term effects of consistent, heavy alcohol use, including dependence and sympt... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3037091 Sun, 29 Nov 2009 11:57:09 +0100 3037091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3023420&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fdenial-of-alcoholism%2F Denial may lead to rock bottom Breaking through denial is alcoholic’s first step in recovery Looking in the mirror and accepting what we see can be one of the hardest things we ever do. It’s especially hard when the image staring us in the face is painful or doesn’t fit with how we want to see ourselves. Sometimes, the truth is so painful that we avoid it at any cost. Refusing to accept a painful reality that alters the perception of ourselves is a psychological defense called denial. As human beings, we may use denial to protect ourselves from knowledge, insight or awareness that threatens our self-esteem, mental or physical health, or security. The term “denial” is often used in the chemical dependency field to describe people who deny substance abuse proble... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3023420 Mon, 23 Nov 2009 10:53:15 +0100 3023420 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3004094&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Falcohol-misuse-among-the-elderly%2F An Opportunity for Prevention Abstract: Current US census estimates predict that by the year 2020, 18% of the population will be 65 years or older. As most adults in this age group have health care needs, it is vital that clinicians are competent in identifying and intervening in the most common health issues among older adults. The article in this issue by Blazer and Wu again reminds us that alcohol use, including binge drinking, is common among older adults and that despite popular culture, alcohol misuse does not disappear as one ages. As noted in the article, the findings are very consistent with other epidemiological literature. Blazer and Wu found that 13% of men and 8% of women reported at-risk drinking and that 14% of men and 3% of women reported binge drinking. This is not to sugg... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3004094 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 04:57:31 +0100 3004094 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2985041&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Faddiction-symptoms-video%2F Sarah Jessica ParkerA great video from Face the Issue about the effects of drugs narrated by Sarah Jessica Parker.This is an anonymous quote from a young addict trying to reclaim their life.“ok, so pot, is fine let’s not get into that….but whenever i hang out with my friends they’re always drinking, which i don’t do, because i’m on pills.lots of pills, pills to sleep, pills to wake up, pills to dull the pain, pills to be numb… it’s ok, i have a prescription….but for a while i got off them. because i ran outbut the other day i found some codiene and i took it, with other stuff… and in my spnish class it started kicking in…and i felt… complete…which is terrible because lately i’ve been hella down because coll... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2985041 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:38:00 +0100 2985041 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2967539&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fsymptoms-of-alcoholism-video%2F The symptoms of alcoholism are graphically illustrated in this video narrated by Nicole Kidman.From; Facetheissue.com Related Reading: Share/Save (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2967539 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 23:19:20 +0100 2967539 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2954804&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Falcohol-brief-intervention-in-primary-practice%2F Are Brief Alcohol Interventions Likely to be Effective in Routine Primary Care Practice? A number of meta-analyses have demonstrated the modest efficacy of brief interventions (BI) for nondependent unhealthy alcohol use in primary care settings. Whether this level of efficacy can be expected when BIs are delivered outside of research studies in not known. This systematic review identified 22 randomized trials including over 5800 patients. Investigators classified the trials on a spectrum from tightly controlled (efficacy design) to real world (effectiveness design) studies. The scale considered whether patients presented to health care with a range of conditions, whether practices delivered a full range of medical services, whether practitioners routinely worked in the service rather than ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2954804 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 09:43:52 +0100 2954804 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2902960&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fis-alcoholism-a-disease%2F Yes, alcoholism is a disease. The craving that an alcoholic feels for alcohol can be as strong as the need for food or water. An alcoholic will continue to drink despite serious family, health, or legal problems. Like many other diseases, alcoholism is chronic, meaning that it lasts a person’s lifetime; it usually follows a predictable course; and it has symptoms. The risk for developing alcoholism is influenced both by a person’s genes and by his or her lifestyle. The only treatment for alcoholism is complete abstinence which a lot of alcoholics find hard to do. Sobriety can start at the entrance to an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting. Share/Save (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2902960 Sat, 17 Oct 2009 10:47:48 +0100 2902960 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2865920&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Falcohol-use-for-pain-needs-to-be-assessed%2F This study examined the occurrence of alcohol use to manage pain in community-dwelling adults with tooth pain, jaw joint/face pain, and arthritis. Race/ethnicity, sex, and age were examined to determine their associations with alcohol use for pain. Community-dwelling adults from South Florida with tooth pain (n = 1,767), jaw joint/face pain (n = 1,199), or arthritis pain (n = 1,355) completed a structured telephone interview. Logistic regression models indicted that, similar to population rates, non-Hispanic whites and males were the most likely to use alcohol to manage pain. In addition, alcohol use for pain was highest in younger adults. Individuals who self-managed oral pain with alcohol were more likely to use prescription and over-the-counter pain medications, but this ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2865920 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 10:26:50 +0100 2865920 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2855841&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fbinge-drinking-and-brain-damage%2F Binge Drinking . Binge drinkers have a higher risk of alcohol-related injury than chronic, heavy drinkers, the Health Behavior News Service reported Feb. 22. Binge-drinking women who otherwise drink in moderation had seven times the risk of injury as nondrinkers, while binge-drinking men increased their injury risk sixfold. Share/Save Related posts:Alcohol Related Brain DamageAlcohol related brain damageSo called low risk drinking isn’tRisk of becoming Alcoholic?Heavy Drinkers and Sex Diseases (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2855841 Fri, 02 Oct 2009 05:50:30 +0100 2855841 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796795&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FnxHGcVEV8Xg%2F   Substance abuse practitioners ask what is recovery?’ More than just abstinence, according to proposed definition Abstinence from alcohol and drugs is just the starting point in defining... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] (Source: Twelve Step Facilitation.com) Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796795 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 12:31:23 +0100 2796795 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2804231&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FfagZTDVImpU%2F Healing for Clients and Counselors Recovering People Working in the Recovery Field Whether clients or counselors, students or teachers, we are all imperfect human beings. We are here because we have a yearning to grow. And the strongest motivator for growth is pain. When we are significantly harmed or deprived mentally, emotionally or physically and have no safe people or role models to help us understand and rebound or heal, our mind creates defense mechanisms and... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2804231 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 17:43:21 +0100 2804231 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796806&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FpwnDmi5J4_A%2F Healing for Clients and Counselors Recovering People Working in the Recovery Field Whether clients or counselors, students or teachers, we are all imperfect human beings. We are here because we have a yearning to grow. And the strongest motivator for growth is pain. When we are significantly harmed or deprived mentally, emotionally or physically and have no safe people or role models to help us understand and rebound or heal, our mind creates defense mechanisms and coping... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796806 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 17:43:21 +0100 2796806 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796798&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2F387M4-mmMBg%2F An Evaluation of the Therapeutic Programme Conducted by the Southern Regional Alcohol-Abuse Treatment Centre: Study on the Programme’s Results One Year after Discharge from Inpatient... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] (Source: Twelve Step Facilitation.com) Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796798 Sun, 13 Sep 2009 12:16:38 +0100 2796798 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796799&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2F9WBJzXB6YBQ%2F Online Videos Train Clinicians to Help Patients Who Drink Too Much A new, interactive video training program from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), part of the National... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] (Source: Twelve Step Facilitation.com) Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796799 Sat, 12 Sep 2009 11:46:38 +0100 2796799 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2804235&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fg0S-WnO-O5s%2F is an independent, nonprofessional, twelve step, self-help fellowship organization for people with a dual diagnosis. Our goal is to help men and women who experience a dual illness. We are chemically dependent (alcoholic / addict) and we are also affected by an emotional or psychiatric illness. Both illnesses affect us in [...] [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2804235 Sat, 12 Sep 2009 07:15:55 +0100 2804235 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796810&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FvHxZMG7CfV8%2F is an independent, nonprofessional, twelve step, self-help fellowship organization for people with a dual diagnosis. Our goal is to help men and women who experience a dual illness. We are chemically dependent (alcoholic / addict) and we are also affected by an emotional or psychiatric illness. Both illnesses affect us in [...] [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796810 Sat, 12 Sep 2009 07:15:55 +0100 2796810 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2804238&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FiztVBkNQbPI%2F This article will discuss the ism’s that keep alcoholics in their addiction. The ISM’S These ism’s are part of normal life, everyone has them to [...] [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2804238 Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:19:11 +0100 2804238 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796813&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F9jLKK-Q0OSs%2F This article will discuss the ism’s that keep alcoholics in their addiction. The ISM’S These ism’s are part of normal life, everyone has them to [...] [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796813 Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:19:11 +0100 2796813 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796802&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FdNjdSWO5b_M%2F While the war on drugs continues to attract world attention, it is often overlooked that alcoholism remains a major worldwide health concern. No matter what your expertise, the... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] (Source: Twelve Step Facilitation.com) Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796802 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 10:09:47 +0100 2796802 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2752147&cid=t_355895_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Fidentifying-teen-alcohol-abuse-or-dependence%2F CONCLUSIONS: The Chilean version of the AUDIT is a valid and reliable tool for identifying adolescents with hazardous, harmful, and dependent alcohol use. The suggested cut-off points make screening with the AUDIT more accurate for adolescent populations. Research; Drug Alcohol Depend. 2009 Aug 1;103(3):155-8. Epub 2009 May 6. The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) as a screening instrument for adolescents. Santis R, Garmendia ML, Acuña G, Alvarado ME, Arteaga O. See also; 12-Step Treatment More Effective than Alternative Brief-TSF ASSESSMENT Brief-TSF can assist patients cease alcohol consumption. Learn about the disease http://alcoholcoach.com/5-stages-of-alcoholism/ Youth With Alcohol and Drug Addiction: Escape from Bondage (Helping Youth With Mental, Physical... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2752147 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 13:41:40 +0100 2752147