Substance Abuse Counselor

Okay, you find yourself with a loved one addicted to drugs and have no idea what to do.  Here is a crash course on Substance Abuse 101.

These facts are what every person needs to know, even if you have never been on drugs or know anyone on them, because the more aware you are of the dangers of substance abuse, the better off you and your family will be.

Fact number 1: Marijuana is addictive. Do not kid yourself that marijuana should be legalized and just makes you feel good.  It can and does affect your body and your brain and you are much better off staying away from it entirely.  Marijuana is not the answer to uplifting your spirits.  On the contrary, that “high” is temporary and can result in permanent damage to your body and your brain.

Fact number 2: Alcohol is addictive. Some people can take a few drinks and not have a problem but the truth is, excessive partying can lead to addiction and damage to the brain and the liver.  Teenagers and adults alike find themselves slipping a thermos of alcohol in their bookbags, purses and briefcases just to get through the day.

Fact number 3: Prescription drugs are addictive. That is why they should be and are monitored and taken under a doctor’s care.  If used as a pain reliever, they can often have the patient feeling that they are needed on a continual basis to stop pain, thus getting the person addicted to them because the brain is sending signals that the prescription is needed.

Fact number 4: Drugs and alcohol are addicting and once you are addicted, you need help getting off of them.  Professional counselors and withdrawal drug treatment centers can help with that.

If you are addicted or know someone who is, make that call today.