The following links were submitted by Kathleen Carter of Educator Labs.
The EQ. Foundation is both pleased and grateful, for this contribution.
The Secrets to Helping an Alcoholic Family Member or Friend
Description: “The internet provides a variety of resources for those seeking help for a loved one with drinking problems. As I was researching this article, it became apparent that a lot of people, though well-intentioned, offered poor advice. Some even said, “You can’t help an alcoholic.” This is simply not true. The 13 tips below represent advice culled from top authorities on alcoholism and effective strategies I’ve employed in my own experience in working with alcohol abusers.”
Intervention: Help a Loved One Overcome Addiction
Description: “An intervention can motivate someone to seek help for alcohol or drug abuse, compulsive eating, or other addictive behaviors. Discover when to hold one and how to make it successful.”
Effects of Illegal Drugs on the Heart
Description: “Illegal drug abuse and addiction are very serious problems that can affect people of all ages, ranging from adults to infants born of mothers who regularly used drugs. Illegal drugs are drugs that are sold, often for recreational purposes, even though they are not legally approved. These drugs are typically dangerous, with many of them causing health problems, including problems with the heart. The type of heart complications or problems a person may potentially suffer from depend on the drug itself as well as other factors. These problems may include worsening of current heart problems, a change in heart rate that is either slower or faster, or even heart failure or death.”
Beyond Hangovers: Understanding Alcohol’s Impact on Your Health
Description: “Alcohol is part of our culture—it helps us celebrate and socialize, and it enhances our religious ceremonies. But drinking too much—on a single occasion or over time—can have serious consequences for our health. Most Americans recognize that drinking too much can lead to accidents and dependence. But that’s only part of the story. In addition to these serious problems, alcohol abuse can damage organs, weaken the immune system, and contribute to cancers. Plus, much like smoking, alcohol affects different people differently. Genes, environment, and even diet can play a role in whether you develop an alcohol-related disease. On the flip side, some people actually may benefit from drinking alcohol in small quantities. Sound complicated? It sure can be. To stay healthy, and to decide what role alcohol should play in your life, you need accurate, up-to-date information. This brochure is designed to offer you guidance based on the latest research on alcohol’s effect on your health.”
Teen Drug Evolution: A Parents Resource Guide
Description: “[…] an increasing source of concern is found right in the home. This concern involves prescription drugs and over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. Both of these drugs have harmful and even deadly consequences when taken incorrectly or abused.”
Seeking Drug Abuse Treatment: Know What to Ask [PDF]
Description: “The goal of drug abuse treatment is to stop drug use and allow people to lead active lives in the family, workplace, and community. One continual challenge, however, is keeping patients in treatment long enough for them to achieve this goal. That is why finding the right treatment for a person’s specific needs is critical.”
Swim Back to Health: The Guide to Aquatic Therapy for Recovering Addicts
Description: “With a survey from the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids and the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services showing that 10 percent of adults in the U.S. are reportedly recovering from addiction, it’s important that there are a variety of treatment methods available to suit the needs of a diverse population. One alternative treatment that has wonderful physical and mental health benefits is aquatic therapy.”
5 Unexpected Benefits of Sobriety
Description: “When it comes to quitting drinking, there are the obvious, expected benefits—like improved health and the ability to keep yourself out of dangerous situations. But there are also many fringe benefits that most of us never saw coming when we signed up for sobriety.”
Our Love Frontier 