The Importance Of Substance Abuse Programs In Schools

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Despite the fact that substance abuse is a serious threat to our youth nowadays, more and more teenagers start to consume dangerous substances, unaware of their implications in the long run. In this article I will present you the importance of substance abuse prevention in schools today, as well as their main benefits.

Drug Prevention Programs In High Schools

A sign that says Drug-Free School Zone
Substance Abuse programs for a drug free school system do work!

It is better to prevent than to treat, and that is a fact. Fortunately, over the past decade, more and more schools across the territory of the USA started programs that aim to prevent substance abuse. It is the responsibility of school administrators to determine the percentage of teenagers that consume illegal substances and to take the necessary measures to stop them from doing so and prevent others from starting to use illegal substances. The best way to do so is by using anonymous surveys.
It is essential to raise awareness among teenagers with regards to the dangerous effects of drugs, as well as to inform them about all the legal aspects. Very few teenagers are actually aware of the risks associated with the use of illegal substances, and this is one of the main factors that contribute to the increasing number of teenagers that consume dangerous substances.
Nonetheless, it must be mentioned that the term “substance abuse” does not only refer to drugs and illegal substances, but to alcohol and tobacco as well. Even though the latter is less dangerous, students must be warned about the dangerous health risks they expose themselves at each time they consume such substances.
Regarding drug prevention programs in high schools, school administrators usually focus on education. Education is undoubtedly the most efficient “weapon” when it comes to preventing substance abuse. Teachers inform their students about how can drugs and alcohol interfere with their day-to-day activities and the tremendous impact they have on one’s health. Fortunately, there are various prevention principles that apply in junior high school which turn out to be highly effective.
Besides the fact that school administrators try to raise awareness among teenagers, they also inform both teachers and students about the consequences of drug abuse. Every high school has its own policy, but all high schools are obliged to notify the police if any illegal substances are discovered. The first substance abuse programs were initiated more than half a century ago, and they have been significantly improved throughout time.
Some of the most important and efficient substance abuse programs in high schools are “Just Say No!”, “Keepin’ it REAL” (which is among the top 3 most efficient programs) or D.A.R.E. (The Drug Abuse Resistance Education). Putting it in a nutshell, these programs teach students how to recognize the risks of substance abuse, how to refuse substance-related offers and how to build strong decision-making skills.

A young woman receiving drug counseling
Substance abuse counseling helps people overcome addictions.

ith regards to the substance abuse programs in schools today, the most known programs include Narconon International (with more than 40 years of experience in the prevention of substance abuse) or SADD (acronym for Students Against Destructive Decisions). These programs not only focus on preventing substance abuse, but also on raising awareness regarding the dangers of drinking and driving. They promote responsible, healthy lifestyles.
The purpose of these substance abuse programs in high school is to help students make good decisions and avoid self-destruction, since substance abuse is extremely harmful in the long run. The programs also aim to prevent violence by providing positive role models. These prevention programs turned out to be highly effective, since the number of students that abuse substances has significantly decrease. Nonetheless, the results vary from one high school to another, due to the fact that every high school has its own substance abuse policy.
D.A.R.E., One Of The Main Substance Abuse Prevention Programs
At the moment, D.A.R.E. is undoubtedly one of the most known programs in the United States of America. As a matter of fact, recent studies have revealed the fact that D.A.R.E. is implemented in approximately three out of four high schools. The D.A.R.E. program was founded almost 30 years ago, back in 1983, and since then it has been teaching children how to fight substance abuse. “Keepin’ it REAL”, or simply “KiR”, is the most effective evidence-based prevention program initiated by D.A.R.E. USA. Besides the fact that it is very efficient, this program turned out to be cost-effective as well.

SADD, A Program Against Risky Behavior

Basically, SADD aims to teach students the dangers of drinking and driving and how can substance abuse affect their lives. The program provides students efficient prevention tools that allow them to take the best decisions and avoid risky activities that can be life-threatening. SADD also supports funding for various mental health services and for anti-violence programs in high schools.

A sign that says drug free zone
Make your life a drug free zone.

Narconon

As stated above, Narconon is another highly important program that aims to prevent substance abuse in high schools. The program provides useful information regarding the side effects and social implications of drug consumption, and it teaches students how to resist external influences, whether they come from so-called friends or other people. The program focuses mainly on group discussions.

The Benefits Of Substance Abuse Programs

It is essential to teach students the dangers of substance abuse when they are young, to provide them quality principles for a healthy and happy life. This way, they are more likely to avoid smoking or drinking when they grow up. In other words, substance abuse education in junior high school is vital.
Prevention programs have numerous benefits. They not only warn students about the dangerous effects of substance abuse, but they also teach them how to develop essential decision-making skills that will help them fight drugs later in life. It must be mentioned, though, that the techniques and methods used in these prevention programs are different compared to the ones used several decades ago: they put emphasis on social skills and they help children become aware of the main misbeliefs regarding substance abuse.
To sum up, these are the basics of substance abuse prevention programs in high schools. They are highly effective and they come to support the substance abuse policy of every high school. Fortunately, there are many programs that focus on prevention nowadays, and the number of students that consume tobacco, alcohol and illegal substances are expected to drop even more in the following years.
If you want to earn your substance abuse counseling certificate then you might want to visit our website.

Not All Meditation Programs Are Created Equal

Posted on by Dominick Flarey
A lemur in a meditation pose
Everyone meditates differently, even lemurs.

Like everything in life, everything is unique.   Why should meditation programs all be the same?   Truth is they should not be.   Everyone meditates in their own way.   There is no wrong way to meditate.  When shown how to meditate, you should take what applies to you.   The rest should be put in the “Good to know” box.   In the end meditation is all about you and your thoughts.   For more on different ways to meditate please review below:
From Huffington Post

Meditation Programs Should Fit the Individual.

The article, “Not All Meditation Types Are One-Size-Fits-All, Study Suggests”, source: Huffington Post states

“If you aren’t enjoying your meditation practice, a small new study suggests a possible reason why: You aren’t doing the method that’s right for you.
Researchers from the San Francisco State University Institute for Holistic Health Studies found that not all people prefer the same kind of meditation practices.”

For the full article please go here.

There are plenty of meditation programs to base your style of meditation on.   You just need to research them and see which ones feels right.   After all, your meditation style should fit you like a glove.
For more on online meditation courses please visit our webpage.

A Broken Heart

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

You Broke My Heart-Literally?

People who lose a loved one are quite sorrow strucken, so strucken that the phrase, “a broken heart” is used.  Yet, does the heart itself, as an organ, and not a metaphorical symbol suffer really?  Recent studies show that the heart itself can suffer physical symptoms from extreme grief.

The online news agency,  Dailymail, in the article, “How broken heart syndrome PROTECTS the grief-stricken from dying” discusses this below.

“People who suffer from intense grief after the death of a loved one are often said to be at risk of dying from a broken heart after developing symptoms of cardiac arrest.”

To read more, click here

If you are interested in Grief Counseling Education, please click here.
For those who want to learn how to become certified in bereavement counseling, please review.
AIHCP

The Roles of Forensic Nurses in Sexual Assault Cases

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

The role of Forensic Registered Nurses in sexual assault examinations

Sexual assault cases such as rape are usually very difficult crimes to prosecute. In the U.S. alone, out of every 100 rapes that occur, only 46 are reported. Out of the reported 46 rapes, only 12 result to arrests and only 3 result in prison sentences. This indicates a success rate of only 3% which is very low. In order to deal with this, advocates have turned their attention to forensic nurses to encourage them receive the relevant training to be able to give proper sexual assault examinations. Prosecutions are always very difficult especially if a victim does not get a prompt examination. Forensic nurses are therefore being encouraged to help in sexual assault cases to be able to deal with the rape menace once and for all.
The rate of registered forensic nurses that are certified to carry out sexual assault examination is very low compared to the total number of registered nurses. Thus, this is a very viable career option for nurses today.  Currently sexual assault examinations by forensic nurses are offered for free to any rape victims who are willing to be examined in at least one hospital in every county in the U.S. under a program started in year 2000. These forensic nurses are responsible for examining the rape victims and also contributing to the foundation of legal cases for these victims which shows that the role of forensic nurses in sexual assault is increasing. This State-wide rape exam system has not only modified the role of forensic nurses but it has gone further to stress on the importance of rape victims seeking medical attention immediately. Forensic nurses have the task of acting fast to persuade victims to seek medical attention fast to avoid cases of evidence being destroyed. Evidence in rape cases can be easily destroyed if a victim uses the bathroom or showers. Forensic nurses are usually aware that they need to find evidence quick if a rape case is to stand any chance of success thus they have to gently persuade their victims to agree to a quick exam.
The roles of forensic nurses from different states in the U.S. are enrolling for certification exams to learn how to carry out proper sexual assault examinations. The certification process involves spending time learning about trauma, anatomy, victim and suspect exams, pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. The nurses are also taught about proper ways of evidence collection and preservation, the law and courts, testifying, violence, suspect profiling and referrals to victim services. Before being certified, forensic nurses also need to acquire some form of clinical experience that is crucial to passing a number of certification tests. Forensic nurses also have to be re-certified annually in order to make sure that they are kept informed in sexual assault examinations/procedures.
Once certified, forensic nurses can now be able to apply to any hospital in the U.S. that offers sexual assault services to become part of a group of specialists who are always on call throughout the year. A forensic nurse as a sexual assault examiner can earn additional salary by taking time on call. Most forensic nurses who can double up as sexual assault examiners therefore have other full-time nursing jobs. In summary the role of forensic registered nurses in sexual assault examinations can’t be undermined. If sexual assault cases are to be reduced, then these cases have to provide concrete evidence.
If you are interested in Forensic Nursing Education, please click here
AIHCP

Substance Abuse Program

Posted on by Dominick Flarey
A picture of a needle with a man in the back obviously suffering.
A good substance abuse program can end the cycle of addiction.

One of the most destabilizing problems that can occur in the life of an individual or even within a family is the problem of substance abuse. Substance abuse refers to situations where people misuse mind altering substances such as drugs or alcohol usually in an attempt to deal with some underlying problem. There are a wide range of reasons why people decide to abuse substances and a wide range of substances which can be abused. Helping someone with a substance abuse problem is far from easy and for that reason it is vital to seek the help of a substance abuse program service of some type. Substance abuse counselors are experienced with treating a variety of different abuse problems. They can help people get to the root of why they are choosing to abuse substances and help them find alternative strategies of coping and managing their condition. It is vital to seek help as soon as possible before a substance abuse problem worsens.
If you are interested in becoming a substance abuse counselor or want to learn more about how to help substance abusers then you might want to look into our online substance abuse counseling courses.   They are designed to be self-paced and help you receive the training needed to help those in need.    Check out our website for full information.

Forensic Nursing Certification as a Career Option for Nurses

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Is Forensic Nursing for You?

If you think being a registered nurse is the be-all and end-all of your professional career, then think again. While working as a nurse can be fulfilling, if you wish to further your studies, you won’t be disappointed with the many continuing education fields you can explore. A good example of further education you can complete is forensic nursing certification.
In a nutshell, it is a process by which a registered nurse is may be publicly recognized as being equipped with the high level of knowledge and practice skills in forensic evidence collection, criminal procedures, legal testimony and related fields of expertise. It is the application of the science of nursing to legal matters. As such, when an individual has been certified, he becomes a qualified medical professional who can perform duties that would eventually impact the establishment of legal evidence and responsibility for a traumatic injury. To be certified, a registered nurse has to complete a comprehensive education program related to this field along with a competency testing.
If you are interested in taking an education program in forensic nursing, then you should give our site a peek.   We have a comprehensive forensic nursing certification that is available online and gives you an excellent education in forensic nursing.  
 

Bereavement and Pet Loss

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Pet Loss and Attachment

The grief associated with a loss of pet can be great. Unfortunately, many people dismiss this loss as insignificant compared to loss of family or friends. The reality is the bond and attachment between a pet and owner can be just as intense. The blind eye of society to the severe suffering caused by the loss of a pet especially to children and the elderly is something that has begun to change with the more thorough study of grief. Attachment to a pet is something that is now seen as gravely important in anyone’s inter-relationships. In some cases, it is the only relationship for some people. This loss must be addressed as well. AICHP offers grief specialty certifications in Pet Loss. The program introduces the student to the basics of grief, but afterwards focuses four core courses on the issue of pet loss grief counseling.  Through these six courses in all, the counselor can achieve certification in Pet loss and Grief Bereavement and Pet Loss 

Simple Meditations Tips From An Expert

Posted on by Dominick Flarey
a statue in a meditation pose
Meditation tips can help you get the most out of your meditating.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Looking for a few quick meditation tips?  Then look no further.   Feel free to check out these quick tips from Deborah King.

Quick Meditation Tips:

The article, “Simple Steps for Meditation” by Deborah King states

“Everyone is super busy and frantic these days, so it feels even more difficult to find time to slow down. With all of the extra technology today, we have all become mega-experts at multi-tasking. So how do you find time to take a deep breath and slow down? “

For the full article please go here.

Check back here regularly for more meditation tips.   Also visit our website for information on meditation courses

Stress Relief: Learn to React to it Better

Posted on by Dominick Flarey
A sign that says Wellness and has stress X out.
Stress relief can be as easy as you want it to be.

Can stress relief easily be achieved by the way we react to our stressful situations?  What if we could reduce stress by simply reacting to it in a healthy way.   Wouldn’t that be nice?   There are techniques that can help you react better to life’s stressful situations.   Instead of seeing red all the time from stress, try turning it green and seeing it as a positive motivational force in your life.  It is all in how you look at your stress.   An article from NJtoday.com has more:

How We React to Stress Could Help Us With Stress Relief

For the full article please go here.
As you can see our reactions to stress in our daily lives could be affecting us.   Learn to know your stress triggers.    Avoid them if you can or learn to react to them in a positive way if you cannot.   Stress does not have to dominate our lives.
If you want to learn more about stress management consulting then you should go to our website.

Link Between ADHD and Omega-3

Posted on by Dominick Flarey
A child screaming into the camera
Does ADHD make you want to scream?

 

 

 

 

 

How ADHD could be helped by Omega-3 Fatty Acids

The article, “Omega-3 and ADHD in children”, Source: Massey University

“The links between ADHD in children and deficiencies in long-chain omega-3 fatty acids is just one of the controversial topics being discussed at the upcoming Omega-3 Fatty Acids Symposium, to be hosted at Massey University’s Albany campus on Thursday. “

For the full article please go here.

Of course there is always more scientific testing to see if Omega-3s have a strong effect on ADHD.   This does not mean you should wait to start incorporating more Omega fatty acids into your child’s diet.     A good source of it is fish.   Fish is a lean protein and should be a part of any proper diet.

If you want to take an ADHD counseling program then you might be interested in our website.