California’s laws regarding drug use, specifically marijuana, have undergone some recent changes, especially in the wake of the movement to legalize marijuana in several states. As the first state to legalize medicinal marijuana nearly two decades ago, California continues to garner national attention because of its changing laws surrounding drug use. The recent passing of Proposition 47, which … [Read more...]
U.S. Drug Statistics by State
Drug and alcohol abuse statistics by state are often influenced by factors such as geography, ease of access, and states’ laws. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) publishes a report detailing the top states for drug use, including marijuana, cocaine and alcohol. One contributing factor to substance abuse, especially alcoholism, is Seasonal Affective … [Read more...]
National Drug Overdose Deaths
Deaths due to drug overdose have steadily increased over the past two decades, becoming one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Between 1999 and 2012, overdose-related deaths increased by 117% with approximately 114 people a day dying as a result of drug overdose. In 2012, drug overdoses were responsible for more US deaths than traffic fatalities, homicides, and suicides. 79.9% … [Read more...]
5 Tips for Staying Sober During the Holidays
The holidays can be difficult for anyone. But they can be especially tough for an addict or an alcoholic thanks to elevated stress levels, increased temptations, and inconsiderate family members. As one who has struggled with recovery on multiple occasions, I can testify that the power of temptation never fully reveals itself until it is fully manifested in the moment. It’s always been much … [Read more...]
How Much Caffeine Powder Is Too Much?
Caffeine is found in many beverages consumed by young American adults including energy drinks, coffee, and soft drinks. It is not uncommon to find people who do not go a day without it. Recently, however, the FDA has warned consumers about the recent increased availability of powdered pure caffeine that is being marketed directly to consumers. Caffeine powder is being sold in bulk over the … [Read more...]
Drugs and Alcohol in Popular Culture | Sociology at Sober College
Unlike any other treatment center, Sober College offers clients the opportunity to complete college courses through Woodbury University, on-site at the learning center while they are in treatment. Five courses are offered on-site: Psychology, Sociology, Creative Writing, Health and Wellness, and Public Speaking. These courses provide transferable units towards other colleges, and allow clients to … [Read more...]
New Synthetic Cannabinoid Is Putting People In Hospitals
Synthetic cannabinoids are designer drugs that are created to mimic the effects of THC found in marijuana. It is often made from herbs, incense, or other leafy materials and then sprayed with liquid chemicals in order to give it psychotropic properties. While it is frequently marketed as incense and labeled “not for human consumption”, the drug has become increasingly popular among young adults … [Read more...]
Learning to Live Clean and Sober
At Sober College, sobriety is one of the Five Core Competencies that shape our drug treatment program. As part of this competency, clients are exposed to the 12 Steps through Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings, active work with a sponsor, and a variety of groups geared towards introducing and teaching a new way of life to our clients. In Living Clean group, clients participate … [Read more...]
Which Came First? Anxiety Disorder or Substance Abuse
A co-occurring disorder, or comorbidity, refers to the occurrence of two or more disorders in one person. This may refer to disorders that happen at the same time or one after another. Regardless of the way in which they present, their presence and interaction between one another can worsen symptoms of both illnesses. Many people who struggle with addiction are diagnosed with one or more … [Read more...]