Category addiction treatment
Without any doubt, Northern New Mexico owns the worst reputation for drug-related issues, as Rio Arriba County owns the state’s highest drug related death rate. Epidemiological data shows that we, as a community, MUST do something to try and get… Continue Reading →
I have no doubt that the story of opiate addiction in Northern New Mexico is a ghost story. The ghosts of our ancestors and the ghosts of lost land haunt the region and cast shadows that I believe we either… Continue Reading →
I am not a good storyteller. Although I do my best, it’s not easy for me to weave words into a set of beginnings, middles, and ends that envelop and transform readers. The problem with my limited capability is that… Continue Reading →
If you purchase, read, and most importantly, USE 49 Tips and Insights for Understanding Addiction (you can buy it here), you are taking a positive step towards understanding Substance Abuse & Addiction. While there is no magic bullet that can… Continue Reading →
Sometimes when I’m studying, I can’t help but say “duh” out loud. Lately, I’ve been brushing up on the stages of change within substance abuse. Although I’ve written and taught about them before, I like to revisit various models and… Continue Reading →
The idea that someone has to hit rock bottom before he or she will make a change is a misperception. This misperception leads many to people washing their hands of those who struggle with substance abuse challenges. According to freedictionary.com,… Continue Reading →
All too often, people who know and love someone with an addiction spend a ton of energy worrying and trying to help their loved one. A lot of time, people approach me for treatment advice when they’ve done all they… Continue Reading →
According to the Parents Translational Research Center and the Partnership for a Drug Free America, there are six (6) things parents can do to prevent their child from developing an issue with illicit substances: Build a warm and supportive relationship… Continue Reading →
A recent study found that cognitive behavioral therapy is more successful in treating Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) than spirituality-based programs (study can be found here). In the years I’ve been studying and treating SUDs; however, I’ve learned that when a… Continue Reading →
If your child is between 12-18 years old, then, as a School Drug and Alcohol Counselor, I have some news for you: Your teen will probably be exposed to drugs and/or alcohol in the near future, if they haven’t already… Continue Reading →
