Substance Abuse Counseling Program Article on Drug Addiction

Drug addiction is a horrible disease that individuals endure.  Those addicted go through many symptoms and withdraws when dealing with drugs.  These symptoms can be physical, mental and emotional.  Substance Abuse Counselors and licensed counselors can help individuals face addiction and learn how to cope with the issues that surround it.

 

Addiction causes mental, emotional and physical havoc on the person. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Program

 

The article, “What Is Drug Addiction?” by Laura Dowart looks closer at the physical and mental symptoms surrounding addiction.  She states,

“The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) defines drug addiction as “a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences.” People with drug addictions continue to use drugs compulsively despite the harmful consequences. Drug addiction can lead to serious health consequences and even death. However, it’s preventable and treatable.”

To read the entire article, please click here

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Program

The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling.

Substance Abuse Counseling Certification Blog on Executives and Hidden Addiction

Many lead executives have an image to keep for leadership and the image of the company. They must present themselves professionally and be the face of the company.  It is because of this, many who need help with addiction avoid seeking help.  They try to keep up appearances while neglecting the importance of help with any type of addiction they may be facing.

 

Many executives hide substance abuse. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification

 

The article, “What Discourages Addicted Executives From Seeking Help?” by Arnold Washton looks closer at why executives do not seek the help they need.  He states,

“Contrary to common stereotypes, high-functioning executives and professionals – including physicians, attorneys, corporate executives, and others – are just as prone to developing serious alcohol and drug problems as people in many other socioeconomic groups and life circumstances. However, one important difference is that executives and professionals are frequently better able to keep their addiction hidden from view because they have the resources needed to maintain a high level of functioning or at least the outward appearance of doing so that camouflages the chaos in their personal lives.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it meets your professional and academic needs.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling

Substance Abuse Counseling Program Article on Addiction and Mental Illness

Addiction is not a choice, it is a illness.  Individuals who are addicted suffer from the mental illness of addiction that also negatively affects their body through cravings and withdraws.  It is because of this, individuals need special treatment to overcome substance abuse and addiction.

Addiction is a mental illness. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Program and see if it meets your needs

 

The article, “Yes, Addiction Is a Mental Illness” from PYSCHCENTRAL looks at how addiction is a mental illness.  The article states,

“Mental illness and substance use disorder (SUD) often occur together. It’s unclear which issue happens first, but each can contribute to the other. Genetics and early exposure to trauma are two factors that can increase your chance of developing SUD. Your genes may account for 40% to 60%Trusted Source of your vulnerability to addiction. So if you have SUD, it’s not because you’re not strong enough to change things. Instead, your brain works differently than the brain of someone who isn’t living with addiction.”

To review the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goal.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification as a Substance Abuse Counselor

 

Work and Addiction Problems

Employees with addiction can be a big issue.  Simply giving up on them may not be the answer though and finding them help to increase their productivity and unlock their potential can be rewarding not only to the company but also to oneself.

Those with addiction issues are late for work, miss it altogether, or may even have emotional issues while at the office or with other employees on the ground.  While too much disruption is obvious grounds for termination, many employees have value.  Some have been part of a business for years and their skills at their position are hard to replace.  In such cases, addiction help is important.  Employers can help good employees find the help they need.  In addition, employees who see their work value reducing because of addiction issues, need to rectify their issue and find better ways to cope with stress and other issues to avoid losing a good position and pay.

Helping employees with addiction is critical to success. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Program

Commentary

The presence of addiction in an employee may manifest itself through various behavioural and physiological symptoms. These can include, but are not limited to, a decrease in productivity, impaired decision-making capabilities, increased absenteeism, physical health issues such as poor nutrition and weight loss, withdrawal from social activities and emotional responses such as irritability and mood swings.

Helping an Employee with Addiction

In order to assist an employee who is suffering from addiction, it is imperative to employ a holistic approach which includes both educational and therapeutic components. This could include providing resources for the individual that offers psychoeducation about addiction, as well as offering referrals for addiction counseling or support groups. Additionally, workplace accommodations such as flexible scheduling or modified duties may be employed in order to ensure an environment conducive to recovery.

In addition,  it is important to begin by engaging in a comprehensive assessment with the individual to identify the nature and scope of their addiction. This can be achieved through a holistic approach which includes psychological testing, interviews, as well as gathering feedback from family members or other individuals close to the employee.

Organizational Prevention

Addiction prevention in the work force is a critical factor in maintaining productivity, employee morale, and ultimately the profitability of an organization. It involves implementing strategies such as education, awareness campaigns, and access to professional resources for employees who may be at risk for or already exhibiting signs of addiction. By engaging in this type of intervention, employers can help create a safe and healthy work environment that reduces the risk of substance misuse and the associated consequences.

Companies can offer a variety of addiction prevention seminars or education for employees. Addiction prevention policies are also important to set guidelines and expectations

 

The implementation of addiction prevention seminars for companies is an effective means to address the public health crisis of substance abuse in the workplace. These seminars are designed to educate employees on the risks and consequences of substance abuse, as well as provide guidance on how to identify and address potential problems among coworkers.  Such seminars typically involve interactive activities, informative lectures, and educational materials delivered by qualified professionals in order to provide participants with an immersive learning experience regarding the risks of addictive substances and effective strategies for managing their use. Furthermore, these seminars can serve as a platform to create a culture of support and understanding while promoting positive mental health practices.

Universal substance abuse policies for companies refer to a set of regulations that apply to all members of the organization and are designed to prevent and reduce the misuse of substances, such as drugs and alcohol. These policies typically involve screenings, education programs, sanctions for violations, and referral services for employees in need of assistance. Furthermore, these policies also encompass measures to prevent potential risks associated with substance use at work, including reduced productivity, physical hazards from impairment, and liability related to employee health and safety.

Conclusion

In conclusion, substance abuse in the workforce is a major problem that affects employers and employees at every level. The damage to productivity, workplace safety, physical and mental health, and employee morale cannot be overstated. It is essential to implement effective policies that identify and address substance abuse in the workplace. Employers must understand the signs of substance abuse and have an appropriate response plan in order to protect their organization from legal liability and financial losses.

Substance Abuse Counselors can help companies face addiction issues through presentations and other policy guidelines.  Employees can find help individually with the aid of Substance Abuse Counselors to help better cope with work stress.  Some Addiction Counselors may be tied to a particular organization, or may be already licensed professional counselors.  Regardless, many individuals need group or individual counseling to gain control of an issue.

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification

Additional Resources

“Substance abuse, dependence and the workplace: A literature overview”. Breggie Smook; Marie Ubbink; Elma Ryke; Herman Strydom. Social work (Stellenbosch.  Online) vol.50 n.1 Stellenbosch  2014. SciElo.  Access here

“Employed men and women substance abusers: Job troubles and treatment outcomes”. Valerie Slaymaker, PhD., etc. al. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment Volume 31, Issue 4, December 2006, Pages 347-354. ScienceDirect.  Access here

“Substance abuse among nurses—Defining the issue”. Debra Dunn, RN. AORN Journal Volume 82, Issue 4, October 2005, Pages 572-575, 577-582, 585-588, 592-596. ScienceDirect.  Access here

“Organizational consequences of staff turnover in outpatient substance abuse treatment programs”. Danica Knight, PhD. etc, al. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment Volume 42, Issue 2, March 2012, Pages 143-150.  ScienceDirect.  Access here

Substance Abuse Counseling Certification Article on Helping Others Through Addiction

Seeing a loved one suffer through addiction can be painful.  It is important to know how to help a loved one though addiction and find the help one needs.  One needs to show patience but also sternness in helping someone re-find their way after addiction.  It can be a slow and painful process but love can find a way to ensure a good ending.

It takes time and dedication to help someone through addiction. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification

 

The article, “How to Help Someone You Loves Who Struggles With Addiction—5 Expert Tips” by Laura Hilgers looks at how someone can help another person through addiction.  She states,

“There’s a common misconception that once someone completes a 28-day rehab program, they’re cured. But according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, most people need at least90 days of residential or outpatient treatment for a positive outcome. If your loved one suffers from opioid use disorder, they’ll probably also need medication-assisted treatment (MAT). The drugs used in MAT—such as buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone—help manage cravings and withdrawal. “They do not substitute one addiction for another,” says Dr. Roy. “They are evidence-based, lifesaving medicines.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Addiction is not a choice but a disease.  To help someone through it, it takes dedication, patience and love.  It is something that never goes away but needs to vigilantly guarded against.

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling.

 

Substance Abuse Counseling Certification Article on Types of Addiction

Addiction is something that is more than just chemical but it can also be behavioral.  It is an urge inside that pushes one to do certain things that are not beneficial in excess.  It distorts something and turns it into something negative for one’s life.   Addiction can come in forms of drugs to certain behaviors.

Addiction can trap one in many different ways. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification

 

The article, “Understanding the Different Types of Addiction, From Chemical to Behavioral” by Sara Lindberg takes a closer look how addiction works.  She states,

“Addiction can take shape in two ways: overusing or misusing substances or excessively engaging in behaviors despite the negative consequences either results in. These two types of addiction are typically recognized as chemical or behavioral.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Addiction can be difficult to overcome.  Sometimes it takes counseling and in other cases, it takes drastic measures to remove oneself from a certain type of drug, crowd or activity.

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals looking for a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling.

 

Substance Abuse Consulting Certification Video on Addiction

Addiction is a dangerous game.  It can lead one into dangerous and unsafe habits that later evoke shame in oneself and also possible health issues.  Addiction can be to a substance, a habit, a thing, or a activity.  It is important to handle addiction properly.  Professionals can help those with addiction especially with any type of substance abuse

AIHCP offers a four year certification in Substance Abuse Consulting.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals.  Usually health care professionals or mental health are excellent candidates for this type of program, or those who work at a facility under guidance of licensed professionals.  If you are interested, please review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Consulting Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals

Substance Abuse Counseling Certification Article on Drinking and Anxiety

Alcohol is thought of a way to relax and unwind.  The reality though is can also cause afterwards and the day after anxiety.  It can negatively affect the brains neurotransmitters and cause an imbalance as the body tries to reset.  This can cause minor to severe anxiety as re-balance is restored.

Drinking can actually increase anxiety especially the day after. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification

 

The article, “Alcohol and Anxiety” from Healthline looks closer at the issues of drinking and anxiety.  The article states,

“When dealing with stressful days or nervous situations, you may be tempted to have a glass of wine or a beer to calm your nerves. However, drinking alcohol, especially heavily and over a long period of time, can actually increase your anxiety.  Drinking alcohol can have serious consequences if you’re being treated for anxiety. Having a drink might seem like a good way to ease anxiety, but you may be doing more harm than good.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling.

 

Substance Abuse Consulting Certification Article on Teen Drug Use Prevention Tips

Preventing teen substance abuse is possible despite the massive amount of pressure from media and peers to experiment with drugs.  Teens go through identify issues as they mature and need guidance and good role models.  Parents can be those role models and supply the necessary guidance to help their teens navigate the troubled waters of growing up.

Parents can play a key role in preventing drug use by their teens. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Consulting Certification

 

The article, “10 Tips & Strategies For Preventing Teenage Substance Abuse” from Ark Behavioral Health takes a closer look at how parents can better guide their teens in avoiding drugs.  The article states,

“Although it might not always seem like it, teens pay attention to their parents’ behavior. If you abuse alcohol or other drugs, your child will likely follow your lead.  Make an effort to model healthy behavior instead. For instance, if you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism defines moderate drinking as having up to one drink a day for women and up to two drinks a day for men.”

To read the entire article, please click Substance Abuse in Children 

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Consulting Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Consulting.

Substance Abuse Consulting Certification Article on Signs of Teen Substance Abuse

Substance abuse and addiction in teens is all too a common a problem for families.  It is important for parents to be alert and aware of their teens social life as well as any behavioral changes.  Parents who are not involved with their teens many times discover the hard way that their teens have substance abuse issues.

What are some signs your teen is using drugs? Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Consulting Certification and see if it meets your professional goals

 

article, “How To Tell If Your Child Has A Substance Abuse Issue | A Comprehensive Guide For Parents” from ARK Behavioral Health takes a closer look at telltale signs of substance abuse in teens that parents can learn to spot.  The article states,

“If you notice the above signs, talk to your child. Calmly ask if they’ve been using drugs, what types of drugs they’ve been using, and why they started using.  Your child may deny any drug use. If evidence suggests otherwise, consider scheduling a substance use screening.  If your child has been abusing drugs, try to remain calm. Remember that substance abuse often stems from mental pain. It can also quickly turn into addiction, which is a disease and not a moral failing. Instead of getting angry, get help. ”

To read the entire article, please click Substance Abuse in Children

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Consulting Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Consulting.