ABC, interact lifeline, LifeLine Connect

View the full article on ABC Action News here: https://www.abcactionnews.com/... Carolyn Bradfield created Interact Lifeline after her daughter died from an overdose. The company connects people to online treatment after rehab and spreads information on the dangers of drugs. PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — A mother in St. Petersburg is making it her life mission to reduce the number of overdose deaths in our country. According to the CDC, more than 100,000 people died from a drug overdose in 2022 alone. Carolyn Bradfield started a company called Interact Lifeline. Its original purpose was to educate people on the dangers of fentanyl and opioids. It also aims to keep people connected to treatment after they get out of rehab. Bradfield started the company after she lost her daughter to an overdose in 2017. “Like many, many families over the past years, I had a personal tragedy in my family. My daughter overdosed and died at Christmas,” Bradfield said.A tragedy that most mothers never recover from. Bradfield said she felt her daughter's death was a call to action.“Pretty soon after her death, I started researching why were people relapsing and overdosing at such a high rate,” Bradfield said.From there, Bradfield used her technology and business background to create Interact Lifeline. It's a technology service that focuses on helping recovery programs and keeping people connected to treatment online after rehab.She's also working on an app that will launch next year. This will actually be able to detect a potential overdose. Bradfield said, “It’s designed to prevent overdoses and overdose deaths by taking data out of your fitness tracker.” The app connects with your Apple Watch, Fitbit, or whatever you use to track your fitness. From there, it monitors your vitals and heart rate. The team can then detect a potential overdose. “So the minute we see that happen, we reach out, we give you 30 seconds to respond to the ‘are you ok’ but at the same time were also alerting your emergency contacts,” Bradfield said.The app has your exact location so they can get help to you as soon as possible. Bradfield said this would have saved her daughter's life. “Now, my daughter, when she overdosed, she was a mile from the trauma hospital. She was around a lot of people; they did not intervene,” Bradfield explained. She said she hopes this app can save lives and prevent other families from dealing with the devastation that her family went through. She also encourages everyone to have Narcan in their medicine cabinet or even carry it in a purse. That can save someone's life. You can buy Narcan over the counter, or the locations below offer free Narcan. Specialty Care Center at 1105 E. Kennedy Blvd.University Area Health Center at 13601 N. 22nd St.Sulphur Springs Health Center at 8605 N. Mitchell Ave.Tuberculosis Center at 8515 N. Mitchell Ave. By: Keely McCormick

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a rise in virtual care solutions across various healthcare sectors. The mental health and addiction care industry is no exception to this trend. Therapists, psychiatrists, and other mental health professionals have increasingly turned to virtual telemedicine solutions to provide care to their patients in the current times of social distancing and lockdowns. However, the effectiveness of virtual care in mental health and addiction treatment continues to be a topic of debate among medical professionals and patients alike. To gain more insights into the current and future state of virtual care in mental health and addiction, we conducted a survey. In this article, we analyze the findings of our survey to help readers better understand the future of virtual care in this highly critical field of medicine. Survey ResultsWe conducted our survey between August and September 2023. The survey was conducted online and collected responses from mental health professionals, patients, and caregivers. The respondents were asked about their views on virtual care, its effectiveness in providing mental health and addiction treatment, and the challenges they face. The survey found that more than 86% of the respondents were comfortable with virtual care solutions for mental health and addiction treatment and are currently offering some form of care. In fact, 68% of treatment programs offer Telehealth appointments, and at least 43% offer aftercare, family support, or virtual intensive outpatient services. While some 11% of respondents do not currently offer virtual care options, 100% indicated they intend to offer options in the near future. Most respondents believed that virtual care is effective in improving outcomes, with 88% of professionals reporting that the greatest benefit is better education for wellness. This was followed by more flexible access to care at 94%, extended connection to treatment and better access to support groups at 89%. However, despite these positive perceptions, a large portion of the respondents mentioned that they believed virtual care cannot always replace in-person care delivery, especially in more severe cases or based on the drug of choice. One of the biggest challenges identified in virtual care delivery was the issue of privacy and security of patient information. Almost 40% of the respondents expressed their concerns about data confidentiality and security in virtual care delivery. Other significant challenges identified were a lack of non-verbal cues communication during virtual sessions, resource management, lack of access to stable internet connections, and technological challenges with platforms. 87% of healthcare professionals who responded to the survey plan to continue providing virtual care or begin offering solutions. They believe that virtual care has many benefits, including increased access, convenience, and flexibility. Another portion of our survey dove into how beneficial the respondents found virtual care to be in different aspects of their mental health and addiction treatment programs. When it came to increased revenue, 61% found that virtual care would be beneficial to their existing programs. Virtual care can enhance revenue streams for treatment centers in several ways. Primarily, it allows them to serve more patients, including those beyond their geographical location, and offers flexibility in scheduling, which can potentially lead to a higher number of billable hours. For increasing their connection to patients, 78% found it beneficial. Virtual care provides an increased connection to patients by breaking down geographical barriers, enabling therapists and professionals to reach and treat individuals who may not have access to these services. In terms of differentiating the services they offer, none of the respondents found virtual care to be not beneficial. However, a striking 39% remained neutral on the impact, with 22% finding it somewhat beneficial and 39% acknowledging it as very beneficial. The perception of virtual care in improving patient outcomes was more polarized. While no one found it not beneficial, 17% rated it not very beneficial. However, the majority leaned towards beneficial with 83%. Finally, in terms of increasing efficiency for themselves or their staff, none of the respondents found virtual care to not be beneficial. A minority of 5.6% found it not very beneficial, another 5.6% remained neutral, while the majority 89% found it to be beneficial to their organizations. These results demonstrate that, while there are differing opinions on the benefits of virtual care, the majority of respondents find it at least somewhat beneficial in various aspects of mental health and addiction treatment.In the next part of our survey, we asked treatment centers about their perceptions of patient concerns regarding the use of virtual care. A range of concerns were identified by respondents. The most commonly raised issues were related to technology, with respondents specifically noting concerns about patients' access to necessary hardware, computer equipment, and stable internet connections. Several respondents pointed out concerns about the privacy and confidentiality of information during virtual sessions. The inability to obtain medications other than pharmacy redirects, and patients' levels of engagement with caregivers in a virtual setting were also highlighted as potential issues. Moreover, respondents worried about patients feeling less connected in a virtual environment. It was suggested that an in-person therapeutic alliance should ideally be established before transitioning to virtual care. The lack of face-to-face interaction and the impersonal nature of virtual sessions were also mentioned as potential patient concerns. A significant concern raised was the authenticity of virtual care—some respondents felt it wasn't seen as "real" treatment. One respondent emphasized that virtual care could eliminate the core interpersonal aspect of therapy and felt that it should not be the norm but rather an extension of in-person treatment. Finally, there were concerns about patients managing increased screen time, the lack of confidence in using technology, and the risk of exacerbating feelings of disconnection and isolation in an already disconnected world. Some respondents insisted on the necessity of in-person treatment components and voiced concerns about promoting virtual care. Interestingly, one response indicated that they believed there were no concerns at all about patients participating in virtual care. The survey respondents shared diverse concerns about the provision of virtual care. These encompassed various areas, including privacy and confidentiality of information, technology-related issues, and the potential loss of human connection in a virtual setting. Some respondents pointed out issues related to substance use disorders. They noted that patients might shortcut their path to obtain ‘comfort meds’ and expressed skepticism about progress to recovery through telemedicine. A recurring theme in the responses was disparities in access to care across large catchment areas. Concerns about safety and stricter admission criteria for serious cases were also mentioned. Some respondents highlighted that unless a trusting in-person relationship has been established, the benefits of virtual care could be minimal. Technical glitches, such as internet or power outages, were seen as potential barriers to effective care delivery. The survey also revealed concerns about funding and the added burden of managing an additional system. A few respondents expressed their concerns over the reduced efficacy of interventions and a decrease in the quality of therapeutic connections. They felt that the seriousness with which clients attended virtual appointments was inferior to in-person visits. Despite these concerns, it is noteworthy that some respondents were already providing care virtually, indicating a level of adaptation and acceptance of this new mode of care delivery. Conclusion The survey results indicate that virtual care has become an important part of mental health and addiction care delivery. It is an effective alternative to in-person care and has helped many patients improve their mental health outcomes. However, while virtual care has numerous advantages, some challenges remain, such as privacy and security concerns, technological issues, and a perceived inability to replace in-person care for severe cases. Our survey suggests that virtual care will continue to grow and it has become an integral part of providing care. However, it is imperative to address the identified concerns to ensure that virtual care is delivered safely, beneficially, and effectively in mental health and addiction care. If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

President Biden Declares September As Recovery MonthDuring National Recovery Month, we celebrate the more than 20 million Americans who have had the courage to seek help for substance use disorder, showing millions of others that recovery is possible.  We honor their resilience and recommit to making sure that every American has access to the services and support they need to rebuild lives of purpose and hope. Read the full proclamation

Navigating the turbulent waters of addiction recovery is a daunting task that no one should face alone. As a loved one, your support can be a pivotal element in someone's journey towards sobriety. Here are seven tips to help you provide the most effective support to your loved one during their recovery process. How to Effectively Support Someone Through Their Journey of Substance Use Recovery 1. Educate Yourself Understanding addiction and recovery is the first step towards providing meaningful support. Addiction is a complex condition that affects both the mind and body, often driven by underlying mental health issues. By educating yourself about the nature of addiction, the process of recovery, and the challenges your loved one may face, you can provide empathetic and informed support. 2. Encourage Treatment Encourage your loved one to seek professional help. This could involve finding treatment resources or locating a therapist who specializes in addiction counseling. Remember to have calm, rational responses prepared for potential objections, and to emphasize the importance of seeking help. 3. Offer Substance-Free Fun Providing a safe, substance-free environment can help your loved one avoid triggers that might lead to relapse. Engage in activities that both of you enjoy and that promote a healthy lifestyle, such as exercise, cooking, or attending cultural events. 4. Vocalize Your Support Expressing your pride in your loved one's progress can significantly boost their motivation and self-esteem. Let them know that you believe in their ability to overcome addiction and that you'll stand by them throughout their journey. 5. Listen Active listening is a powerful tool. Give your loved one the opportunity to openly share their feelings, fears, and hopes without judgment. This can help them process their emotions and feel understood. 6. Facilitate Other Support The support of peers and social networks can keep individuals engaged in treatment and committed to their recovery. Consider suggesting resources like SMART Recovery Friends & Family, which offer science-based, secular support group meetings. 7. Take Care of Yourself Finally, remember to take care of yourself. Supporting someone through recovery can be emotionally draining. Ensuring your own physical, emotional, and mental health is essential not only for your well-being but also for your capacity to provide effective support.  Conclusion By following these steps, you're not just helping a loved one navigate their path to recovery, but also fostering a deeper understanding and stronger bond between you. Remember, recovery is a journey, not a destination, and your support can make all the difference. References: : https://www.healthpartners.com...: https://www.familyaddictionspe...: https://americanaddictioncente...: https://www.mayoclinic.org/dis...: https://www.octoberroadinc.net...: https://www.familyaddictionspe...: https://oasas.ny.gov/recovery/...: https://drugfree.org/article/h...: https://www.reidhealth.org/blo... If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

The advent of digital technology has revolutionized the global healthcare landscape, with virtual care playing a pivotal role in this transformation. This article explores how virtual care promotes enhanced recovery and better outcomes for patients. Exploring the Link Between Virtual Care, Treatment Adherence, and Recovery Success The Role of Telemedicine in Postoperative Care Telemedicine's role in postoperative care is gaining significant attention due to its potential to improve clinical outcomes and enhance patient recovery. By facilitating remote monitoring and consultations, telemedicine enables healthcare providers to track patients' progress, respond quickly to complications, and provide necessary guidance, contributing to faster and more efficient recovery. Empowering Patients Through Virtual Care Delivery Virtual care delivery empowers patients by improving communication, mixing virtual and in-person care, and developing the practice team's journey. It offers patients the autonomy to manage their health, which can significantly contribute to their recovery process. When patients understand their health condition and treatment plan, they are likely to adhere to prescribed therapies and make necessary lifestyle changes, leading to better outcomes. Expansion of Virtual Care Technology at UAB The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has expanded its use of virtual care technology to guide more patients from surgery preparation through recovery. This approach underscores the value of virtual care in the entire care continuum, from preoperative preparation to postoperative recovery. Through digital experiences, patients receive personalized guidance and support, promoting greater engagement, adherence to care plans, and improved recovery outcomes. HCA Healthcare's Innovative Approach to Surgical Recovery HCA Healthcare has adopted an innovative approach to surgical recovery that promotes better outcomes, decreased opioid usage, and faster recovery times for patients. By incorporating virtual care into their recovery protocol, they have been able to monitor patients' progress remotely, provide timely interventions, and reduce reliance on opioids for pain management, thereby enhancing recovery and reducing associated risks. Enhancing Patient Outcomes with Telehealth Telehealth can significantly improve patient outcomes under value-based care. With remote patient monitoring and virtual patient education, healthcare providers can keep a close eye on patients' health status, promptly address any issues, and provide education resources to help patients manage their health effectively. These strategies not only improve health outcomes but also enhance patients' overall healthcare experience. Maximizing Nutrition, Minimizing Pain Enhanced recovery after surgery often involves discarding traditional practices, such as fasting and powerful painkillers. Instead, it focuses on maximizing nutrition and minimizing pain, which can be achieved effectively through virtual care. For instance, dietitians can provide personalized nutritional advice remotely, and doctors can monitor pain levels and adjust medication doses accordingly. The Future of Virtual Care Looking ahead, virtual health presents a significant opportunity for health systems to enhance their value by improving access and delivering high-quality care. As technology continues to evolve, so will the ways in which it can be utilized to promote better health outcomes. Virtual reality, for example, is being used to improve telemedicine, surgery, and healthcare workers' training. Conclusion In conclusion, virtual care is a powerful tool in enhancing recovery and promoting better outcomes in the healthcare sector. It expands access to care, empowers patients, improves clinical outcomes, and reduces healthcare costs. As more healthcare systems adopt virtual care, we can expect to see further improvements in patient recovery and overall health outcomes. References: : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...: https://www.uab.edu/news/healt...: https://investor.hcahealthcare...: https://www.healthrecoverysolu...: https://www.dukehealth.org/blo...: https://www.mckinsey.com/indus...: https://time.com/6155085/virtu... If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

The global health landscape is rapidly changing with the advent and incorporation of digital technology into healthcare delivery. Virtual care, an integral part of this transformation, has emerged as a vital tool in broadening the horizon and diversifying treatment services. This article explores the value of virtual care in expanding access to treatment, enhancing patient outcomes, and addressing the challenges in healthcare delivery. How Virtual Care Can Help Treatment Centers Offer a Wider Range of Services Expanding Access to Care Virtual care has the potential to significantly increase access to treatment services. A report by Accenture reveals that virtual behavioral health services could expand access to care for more than 53 million people. Similarly, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is committed to improving prevention, treatment, and recovery support services for mental illnesses and substance use disorders through virtual care. Telehealth services are also on a steep upward trajectory, with startups using funding to grow their communities, expand treatment databases, and advance research. This expansion in access to care is particularly significant for individuals living in remote areas, where traditional healthcare facilities may be inaccessible. Improving Patient Outcomes Another key value of virtual care lies in its capacity to improve patient outcomes. For example, Philips, a global leader in health technology, and U.S. healthcare provider CoxHealth have co-designed an in-house virtual care solution aimed at improving patient outcomes and increasing staff satisfaction. The collaboration illustrates how technology companies and healthcare providers can work together to create tailored virtual care solutions that address specific patient needs and improve health outcomes. Enhancing Patient Engagement and Experience Virtual care is not just about providing medical services remotely; it's also about enhancing the patient experience. McKinsey reports that virtual care is a key element in the future of healthcare delivery in the United States, as shown by its continued adoption and ever-increasing popularity. Furthermore, the American Medical Association (AMA) has developed a telehealth framework for provider practices that demonstrates the value of virtual care in improving patient engagement. By enabling patients to participate actively in their care, virtual care can lead to better health outcomes and improved patient satisfaction. Overcoming Challenges Despite its numerous benefits, virtual care also faces several barriers. However, these challenges are not insurmountable. By providing medical services across geographic borders and sharing clinical expertise with patients and other healthcare professionals, telehealth practitioners can overcome these barriers. Conclusion In conclusion, virtual care is revolutionizing healthcare delivery by broadening the horizon and diversifying treatment services. It is expanding access to care, improving patient outcomes, and enhancing the patient experience. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, virtual care will undoubtedly play an increasingly critical role in shaping the future of healthcare. References: : https://www.fiercehealthcare.c...: https://store.samhsa.gov/sites...: https://www.fiercehealthcare.c...: https://www.philips.com/a-w/ab..: https://www.mckinsey.com/indus...: https://www.ama-assn.org/pract...: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p... If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

The landscape of addiction treatment in America is changing dramatically, thanks in part to the implementation of interstate compacts. These agreements between states are redefining how we approach addiction treatment and are breaking down barriers that previously limited access to care. Understanding the Role of Interstate Compacts in Expanding Access and Enhancing Quality of Treatment Services What is an Interstate Compact? An Interstate Compact is a legally binding agreement between two or more states that is designed to resolve issues that cross state lines. These agreements cover a wide range of areas, from transportation and environmental issues to health care and education. When it comes to addiction treatment, interstate compacts have the potential to significantly increase the reach of treatment centers and improve access to care for those struggling with substance use disorders. The Impact on Addiction Treatment Centers Increased Access to Care One of the primary benefits of interstate compacts is that they allow for increased access to care. In the past, those seeking treatment for addiction were often limited by geographical constraints. If the best treatment center for their specific needs was located in another state, they would have to navigate a complicated web of regulations and licensing requirements to receive care. Interstate compacts simplify this process, allowing treatment centers to provide services across state lines without additional licensing. Improved Quality of Care Interstate compacts also have the potential to improve the quality of care provided by addiction treatment centers. By pooling resources and sharing best practices, treatment centers can learn from each other and continually improve their services. This collaborative approach leads to more effective treatment strategies and better outcomes for those struggling with addiction. Enhanced Data Sharing Data sharing is another key aspect of interstate compacts. These agreements often include provisions for sharing data between states, which can be invaluable in tracking trends in substance abuse and evaluating the effectiveness of treatment programs5. This shared data can help treatment centers identify areas of need and adapt their services accordingly. Conclusion Interstate compacts represent a transformative shift in the way we approach addiction treatment in America. By bridging borders and breaking down barriers to care, these agreements are making it easier for individuals struggling with substance use disorders to access the help they need. As more states join these compacts, the impact on addiction treatment centers will only continue to grow. References: : https://www.healthit.gov/topic... If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

The COVID-19 pandemic has had far-reaching implications beyond the immediate health crisis it precipitated. It has significantly affected various sectors, with healthcare being at the epicenter. The pandemic has not only strained healthcare resources but also spotlighted the urgent need for comprehensive mental health care. The isolation and loneliness accompanying lockdowns and social distancing measures have led to a surge in mental health issues, necessitating a paradigm shift in healthcare responses. Tracing the Evolution of Healthcare: From Immediate Medical Responses to Long-term Mental Health Solutions in the COVID-19 Era Healthcare systems worldwide have faced unprecedented challenges due to the pandemic. The immediate response required an intensive focus on managing the physical health impacts of the virus. However, the indirect effects of the pandemic on mental health are now coming to the forefront. Mental Health America (MHA) reports increasing numbers of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and other mental health issues since the pandemic's onset. These issues have been exacerbated by the social isolation resulting from lockdown measures and the general fear and uncertainty surrounding the virus. A survey by WHO corroborated this dramatic change in mental health assistance during the pandemic. Front-line hospital staff, already under immense pressure, have been particularly affected. A study found that COVID-19 considerably impacted their psychological well-being. Even before the pandemic, healthcare providers (HCPs) were experiencing a higher prevalence of mental health disorders. This situation worsened with the COVID-19 exposure, epidemiological factors, and the increased workload and stress associated with the pandemic. The pandemic has underscored the interconnectedness of physical and mental health and the need for an integrated approach to healthcare. This realization is driving changes in how healthcare systems respond to mental health needs. For instance, telehealth services have seen a significant uptick during the pandemic, providing an alternative means for patients to access mental health services while minimizing the risk of viral transmission. Moreover, the mental health impact of the pandemic has highlighted the importance of preventive measures and early intervention. Strategies such as regular mental health screenings for high-risk groups, including healthcare workers, and public awareness campaigns about mental health resources can help mitigate the pandemic's long-term mental health impacts. Conclusion In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a paradigm shift in medical and mental health care. It has highlighted the need for healthcare systems to be adaptable and responsive to changing circumstances. As we move forward, it is crucial to carry these lessons forward and continue to prioritize mental health alongside physical health. References: : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/...: https://www.kff.org/mental-hea...: https://mhanational.org/mental...: https://www.thelancet.com/jour...: https://bmcpublichealth.biomed...: https://www.frontiersin.org/ar...: https://academic.oup.com/qjmed...: https://www.mayoclinic.org/dis... If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

The COVID-19 pandemic has acted as a catalyst in the healthcare field, accelerating the shift towards digital health technologies. Among these, telehealth has emerged as a game-changer, enabling individuals to access vital healthcare services remotely. This trend has been particularly notable in the realm of addiction treatment, where telehealth appointments have shown great potential in improving accessibility and outcomes. Exploring the Advantages and Impact of Telehealth Appointments in Revolutionizing Patient Care Telehealth, or telemedicine, refers to the use of digital platforms to deliver health care services remotely. It allows healthcare providers to offer consultations via video calls, phone calls, or text messaging, thus eliminating the need for patients to physically visit a healthcare facility. In addiction treatment, this model can be exceptionally beneficial, offering increased flexibility and accessibility while reducing barriers such as stigma and geographical constraints. The pandemic necessitated a rapid transition to telehealth services in many areas of healthcare, including addiction treatment. As lockdowns and social distancing measures made in-person appointments challenging, telehealth became an essential tool in continuing to provide care to individuals struggling with substance use disorders. One of the main advantages of telehealth is its potential to increase access to addiction treatment services. Many individuals face geographical barriers to accessing care, living in areas with limited or no addiction treatment facilities. Telehealth can bridge this gap, allowing these individuals to access care from their homes. Moreover, telehealth can help reduce the stigma associated with seeking addiction treatment. Patients can receive care in the privacy of their own homes, which may make them feel more comfortable and willing to engage in treatment. Despite its benefits, there are challenges associated with implementing telehealth in addiction treatment. These include technological barriers, such as lack of access to reliable internet or devices, and regulatory issues, such as restrictions on prescribing medication-assisted treatment (MAT) via telehealth. Additionally, some patients and providers may prefer in-person interactions, and not all aspects of addiction treatment can be effectively delivered remotely. However, with ongoing advances in technology and policy changes in response to the pandemic, many of these challenges are being addressed. For instance, regulatory changes during the pandemic have temporarily allowed for increased use of telehealth for MAT, demonstrating the potential for further policy adaptations in the future. Conclusion In conclusion, telehealth represents a promising tool in addiction treatment, offering opportunities to improve access to care and reduce stigma. Despite current challenges, the continued evolution of technology and policy suggests a bright future for the integration of telehealth in addiction treatment. As we move forward, it will be crucial to continue research and innovation in this area, ensuring that telehealth services are accessible, effective, and tailored to the needs of individuals struggling with substance use disorders. References: : https://archives.nida.nih.gov/...: https://www.mayoclinic.org/hea... If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

Addiction treatment centers play a crucial role in society, providing care and support for individuals grappling with substance use disorders. However, these centers face a myriad of challenges that can hinder their ability to deliver effective treatment. This article aims to explore these barriers in-depth, focusing on the difficulties encountered by both patients and providers, and suggesting potential solutions to overcome them. Identifying the Obstacles to Service Delivery and Strategies for Overcoming Them in Addiction Care One of the primary challenges faced by addiction treatment centers is the stigma associated with substance use disorders. Despite growing recognition of addiction as a chronic disease, societal stigma persists. This often discourages individuals from seeking help and creates additional stress for those in recovery. The fear of judgment can also prevent people from fully engaging in treatment, thereby impacting its effectiveness. Another significant barrier is the geographical accessibility of treatment centers. Many individuals live in areas where there are limited or no addiction treatment facilities. This problem is particularly pronounced in rural areas, where the lack of transportation options can further exacerbate the issue. Moreover, even when services are available, they may not be affordable for many individuals, creating another layer of barrier to access. The quality of care provided is another critical challenge. Some treatment centers have been criticized for using aggressive sales techniques, price-gouging patients, and providing substandard care. These practices not only exploit vulnerable individuals but can also lead to poor treatment outcomes. Furthermore, addiction treatment often requires a multi-faceted approach, including medical intervention, counseling, and social support. However, many treatment centers struggle to provide comprehensive services due to a lack of resources or trained staff. This can result in fragmented care that fails to address all aspects of a patient’s needs. Patients themselves also face numerous challenges during recovery. Relapse is a common issue, with many individuals going through treatment multiple times before achieving sustained sobriety. This highlights the need for ongoing support and relapse prevention strategies within treatment programs. Despite these significant challenges, there are promising strategies to improve the effectiveness and accessibility of addiction treatment. Telehealth technologies, for instance, can potentially overcome geographical barriers, allowing individuals to access care remotely. Policies that increase funding for addiction services and improve insurance coverage can also make treatment more affordable. Moreover, efforts to reduce stigma can enhance treatment engagement. This could involve public education campaigns to increase understanding of addiction and recovery, as well as training for healthcare providers to ensure compassionate, non-judgmental care. Conclusion In conclusion, while the challenges faced by addiction treatment centers are considerable, they are not insurmountable. With a combination of technological innovation, policy changes, and a commitment to improving the quality of care, it is possible to create a system that effectively supports individuals on their journey to recovery. References: : https://www.samhsa.gov/...: https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedce...: https://www.npr.org/2021/02/15...: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/b...: https://mayflowerrecovery.com/... If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

When Carolyn Bradfield's daughter Laura died from a drug overdose a few days before Christmas in 2017, she committed to helping other families avoid a similar tragedy. Bradfield, a St. Petersburg resident, is now using her subject and technological expertise to mitigate the exponential rise in fatal overdoses. She founded InterAct Lifeline to aid the 85% of people - like her daughter - who relapse after exiting rehabilitation and treatment centers. Her solution is LifeLine Connect, a mobile application that utilizes biometric data from wearable fitness trackers and smartwatches. If vital signs indicate a potential overdose, the app will notify emergency contacts and direct first responders to the user’s location.

St. Petersburg, FL — August 21, 2023 — InterAct LifeLine’s founder lost her daughter to overdose 5 years ago, but since that time, the deaths from fentanyl-laced illegal drugs has escalated dramatically. Carolyn Bradfield turned grief into purpose and refocused her company to develop a mobile application and SaaS solution that collects data from fitness trackers and smartwatches, notifies if vital signs indicate suspected overdose, alerts contacts and directs emergency help to the individual’s location. Designed for families of adolescents and young adults, LifeLine Connect will integrate off-the-shelf wearables, assess vital signs, and provide real-time geolocation. It is scheduled for widescale release by early 2024.

Fentanyl, InterAct, Overdose

July 18, 2023 by Mike SunnucksCarolyn Bradfield’s daughter Laura suffered a fatal drug overdose in 2017, just a few days before Christmas. She was 29 years old. “She didn’t make her 30th birthday,” Bradfield said, noting her daughter’s challenges with substances and visits to rehab centers in hopes of some improvements. Now, Bradfield, who lives in St. Petersburg, hopes to bring technology to combat rising numbers of fatal overdoses in Florida and across the nation. InterAct LifeLine: Tragic Beginnings Bradfield and Bruce Ahern are spearheading InterAct LifeLine LLC and its sister company Convey The startup effort focuses on bringing digital services and assistance to rehabilitation patients after they leave treatment centers. The pair are rolling out a smart-watch app, Lifeline Connect. The app aims to help loved ones keep track of those struggling with dangerous substances. The companies have operations in St. Pete and the Atlanta area. Bradfield knows the business and personal sides of the venture. She and Ahern have senior- and principal-level experience with teleconferencing, telemedicine, and other digital and technology platforms. Bradfield also knows the heartache of losing a child. She said her daughter Laura struggled with drugs and addiction for 15 years. The struggles started when she was 14 and included multiple visits to rehabilitation centers. Laura overdosed in late December 2017. Bradfield said she died in an Atlanta area hospital four days before Christmas. “It Could Be Your Kid” Bradfield said her daughter probably would have died earlier in the current substance landscape. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid frequently manufactured in China and smuggled into the U.S. from Mexico, is 50 times more powerful than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. It’s also more deadly. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control projects 109,940 fatal drug overdoses between February 2022 and February 2023. (The most recent data available.) More than 8,000 of those deaths happened in Florida, with most of the fatal overdoses tied to fentanyl. Deadly drug overdoses increased from less than 20,000 fatalities annually in 1999 and 2000 to the current levels of more than 105,000 deaths each year. The dangerous opioid is cheap to make, easy to transport, and used in fake pain pills and other medications. Increasingly, it’s mixed with illegal narcotics. In many ways, fentanyl has created instances of Russian roulette with users — from the experienced to first timers — not knowing what’s mixed in with their drugs. That’s increased the number of dreaded telephone calls and knocks on the door around Florida and other states. “It could be your kid,” Bradfield said, noting the dangers to first-time or neophyte users who might get the wrong pill from the wrong person at the wrong party or event. “It’s not just the addicted.” Help After Rehab Her main impetus is to use technology to make rehabilitation efforts more effective after patients check out of centers. Bradfield said there are frequent trends of those struggling with addiction going back to those behaviors in the weeks and months after visits to often-expensive inpatient centers. “People didn’t stay connected to the rehab. They didn’t have enough structure and accountability,” Bradfield said in an interview with The Gabber Newspaper. She and Ahern want to work with treatment centers, behavioral health groups, and educational partners to help extend those connections and offer digital resources aimed at the root of addictions and relapses. “We are going to take our technology and we are going to use it offer digital treatment (services), extensive amounts of education, support groups, and other groups that will help you if you are struggling with other things [like] depression, PTSD, anxiety,” she said. Levels of anxiety, depression and other mental and behavioral health challenges are up, according to Mental Health America and its 2023 annual surveys. Fifteen percent of Americans had substance abuse problems in the last 12 months, according to the group, with 93.5% not receiving any treatment. Fifty million Americans are facing mental health challenges with another 12.1 million saying they seriously considered suicide, according to MHA. Carolyn Bradfield (right) and her late daughter, Laura. photo by Brittany Kelland Digital Safety Net The St. Petersburg pair are rolling out an app for parents and other loved ones that link to their kid’s smartwatch or Fitbit. The app connects those watches by tracking movements and vital signs. If someone goes silent on the app or shows signs of distress, the concerned parent or family member can then try to contact them or their social circle or can call 911. In some overdose instances, minutes and seconds can be a matter of life and death. “It just gives you a safety net around the kid,” Ahern said. Bradfield said Laura was found overdosing at a RaceTrac gas station in Atlanta. “We got a knock on the door at 4:30 in the morning,” she said, noting that if responses to the overdose had been faster Laura might have had a great chance of surviving. She said a number of fatal overdoses — during and after the pandemic — happen when people are alone and struggling with other mental and behavioral health issues. “A lot of these people are overdosing alone at home,” she said. Ahern said the target price on the app is $19.99 per month. That price will cover two people and their smartwatches. The company is also crowdsourcing via GoFundMe and has a nonprofit arm aimed at helping lower-income households with costs. Access to care and high costs of inpatient and other treatment services is a major behavioral health issue, she said. “Laura was in 10, 15 programs. We spent a lot of money on rehab and none of it worked,” Bradfield said. The pair hopes to gain more momentum via word of mouth and proselytizing from families and kids who gain from the digital treatment offerings as well as the smartwatch app, which they hope saves lives. “I want one parent in every high school as an evangelist,” he said. That will help spread the word and prove proof of concept in a behavioral health and treatment space looking for plenty of answers. by Mike Sunnucks

In today's digital age, the world of healthcare has expanded beyond traditional brick-and-mortar facilities. The advent of virtual care has revolutionized the way addiction recovery is approached, providing individuals with new opportunities to stay connected and receive the support they need. In this article, we will explore the power of virtual healthcare in facilitating recovery and preventing relapse. How Digital Platforms are Revolutionizing Mental Health and Addiction The Rise of Virtual Healthcare Virtual healthcare, also known as telehealth or telemedicine, utilizes technology to deliver medical and healthcare services remotely. This approach has gained significant traction in recent years, offering a range of benefits that have transformed the way addiction recovery is approached. By leveraging video conferencing, online platforms, and digital tools, virtual care has made it possible for individuals to access treatment and support from the comfort of their own homes. The Importance of Staying Connected Staying connected plays a crucial role in addiction recovery. It provides individuals with the support, guidance, and accountability they need to overcome challenges and maintain sobriety. The value of connection cannot be underestimated, and virtual care offers a powerful platform to facilitate these connections. Support from Anywhere, Anytime One of the key advantages of virtual care is the ability to access support from anywhere at any time. Individuals no longer need to travel long distances or wait for scheduled appointments to connect with healthcare professionals and support networks. With just a few clicks, they can join virtual support groups, engage in teletherapy sessions, and access online recovery communities. This level of convenience and accessibility ensures that individuals can receive the support they need, regardless of their geographical location or time constraints. Continuity of Care Virtual care enables the continuity of care, ensuring that individuals have ongoing support throughout their recovery journey. Regular check-ins, teletherapy sessions, and virtual appointments allow healthcare professionals to monitor progress, address concerns, and make adjustments to treatment plans when necessary. This ongoing support and engagement significantly reduce the risk of relapse by identifying potential triggers early on and providing timely interventions. Conclusion The world of virtual healthcare has transformed addiction recovery by providing individuals with new opportunities to stay connected, receive support, and access specialized treatment. The convenience, accessibility, and privacy offered by virtual care have revolutionized the way recovery is approached, facilitating ongoing care, and preventing relapse. By embracing virtual care and staying connected, individuals can join a movement that is redefining the landscape of addiction recovery. Now more than ever, it is crucial for individuals to explore the possibilities and benefits of virtual care. Embracing this technology-driven approach to healthcare can ensure that individuals receive the support they need, even in challenging times. Let us join the movement and harness the power of connection to facilitate recovery and prevent relapse. References: : https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help... If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

In a world that is increasingly digitized, online platforms have become our new meeting places, redefining the way we connect and communicate. A shining example of this digital revolution is the emergence of online recovery communities, which have proven to be a lifeline for many individuals grappling with mental health and addiction issues. These platforms, like ours, have ushered in a new era of support and connection that sets them apart from traditional forms of care. Breaking Barriers With Virtual Communities A Safe Space to Connect and Grow Online recovery communities are built on the bedrock of safety and acceptance. They serve as sanctuaries where members can openly share their experiences, feelings, and struggles without any fear of judgement or stigma. In these spaces, every story matters, every emotion is valid, and every struggle is recognized. Facilitating Meaningful Interactions Our online platform offers various features designed to facilitate meaningful interactions among its members. From discussion forums and private messaging to virtual meetings and webinars, these features encourage members to connect, share, and learn from each other. Each interaction strengthens the bonds within the community, creating a supportive network that extends beyond the digital realm. Devotion to Supportive Communities The beauty of online recovery communities lies in their unwavering commitment to nurturing supportive communities. It's not just about providing a platform; it's about fostering a sense of belonging, understanding, and mutual support. This strong emphasis on connection sets the world of online recovery apart from traditional forms of care, making it an invaluable resource for those on the path to recovery. Empowering Members on Their Recovery Journey Beyond being a platform for connection, our online recovery community is a hub of resources designed to assist members on their recovery journey. From educational materials and self-help tools to personalized recovery plans and expert advice, these resources provide members with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate their recovery journey. Conclusion In conclusion, our online recovery community is more than just a platform; it’s a beacon of hope, a source of support, and a testament to the power of connection. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, we are ensuring that no one has to face their recovery journey alone. If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

In the evolving world of healthcare, virtual care is a game-changer. It is redefining how we access and deliver medical services, making healthcare more convenient, accessible, and cost-effective. At the forefront of this revolution is InterAct LifeLine, leading the way in leveraging the potential of virtual care. The Revolutionary Impact of Virtual Care on Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Understanding Virtual Care Virtual care, encompassing telemedicine and remote monitoring, is transforming healthcare delivery. Telemedicine enables video or phone appointments between patients and healthcare practitioners, while remote monitoring allows healthcare providers to track patients' health data remotely. This combination ensures continuous patient care, irrespective of geographical barriers. Virtual Care: A Necessity in the Modern World The necessity for virtual care has been underscored by the current global pandemic. With social distancing measures in place, virtual care provides a safe and effective way for patients to access healthcare services. Moreover, virtual care is increasingly being accepted and adopted by patients and healthcare providers alike. According to a report by McKinsey, while there's an imbalance in usage, there's a growing consensus that virtual care can improve access for the underserved. The Advantages of Virtual Care Virtual care offers numerous benefits. It eliminates the need for travel, making healthcare accessible to those in remote areas. It also provides flexibility, allowing patients to schedule appointments at their convenience. Furthermore, it can be more cost-effective than traditional in-person therapy. The Challenges Ahead Despite its advantages, virtual care also poses some challenges. These include patient skepticism, privacy concerns, and regulatory hurdles. However, these challenges are not insurmountable. With technological advancements and stringent cybersecurity measures, the healthcare industry is continuously working to address these issues. Conclusion Virtual care is revolutionising the healthcare industry, and InterAct LifeLine is proud to be a part of this transformation. We remain committed to leveraging technology to deliver high-quality, accessible, and cost-effective virtual care services. As we navigate the future of healthcare, we invite you to join us in embracing the potential of virtual care. Together, we can make healthcare more accessible and effective for all. References: : https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/...: https://intouchhealth.com/...: https://hbr.org/2022...: https://www.mckinsey.com/indus...: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...: https://www.forbes.com/sites/t... If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

The landscape of mental health and addiction treatment has been dominated by traditional, in-person care for decades. However, the advent of digital platforms is poised to revolutionize this field, making treatment more accessible, efficient, and effective. How Digital Platforms are Revolutionizing Mental Health and Addiction The Current Landscape of Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Traditional treatment methods for mental health and addiction issues typically involve a combination of medication and therapy. While these treatments can be effective, they often come with significant challenges. For instance, patients may face logistical issues, such as long travel times to clinics or scheduling conflicts. Additionally, the stigma associated with seeking help for mental health or addiction can deter individuals from pursuing treatment. The Rise of Virtual Care Platforms Enter digital platforms. These innovative solutions offer remote mental health and addiction treatment services, effectively addressing many of the challenges associated with traditional care. Virtual care platforms provide a range of services, including online counseling, medication management, and peer support groups. By allowing patients to access these services from the comfort of their homes, digital platforms reduce barriers to treatment and encourage more individuals to seek help. The Advantages of Digital PlatformsDigital platforms are not just convenient; they also offer several unique advantages. For example, they can use algorithms to personalize treatment plans based on individual patient data. Moreover, digital platforms can facilitate constant communication between patients and healthcare providers, leading to more responsive care.The Future of Digital PlatformsThe potential of digital platforms extends far beyond their current applications. With further advancements in technology, these platforms could offer even more comprehensive services, such as virtual reality therapies or AI-driven counseling. As such, digital platforms are poised to fundamentally change the way mental health and addiction treatments are delivered. Conclusion In conclusion, digital platforms are set to transform mental health and addiction treatment. By overcoming the limitations of traditional care and leveraging the power of technology, these platforms offer a promising solution to the mental health crisis. As we move into the future, it's clear that digital platforms will play an increasingly crucial role in healthcare. References: : https://nida.nih.gov/research...: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/...: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/... If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

In the modern era, where technology is revolutionizing all aspects of, healthcare is no exception. of the most significant advancements is virtual care, a service that has transformed the landscape of addiction treatment. With millions of people globally struggling with addiction, virtual care emerges as a powerful tool to make addiction treatment more accessible and effective. How Virtual Care Overcomes Traditional Roadblocks in Addiction Treatment Virtual Care and Addiction Treatment Virtual care, also known as telehealth or telemedicine, is the use of digital information and communication technologies to access health care services remotely. It is particularly beneficial in addiction treatment, offering a lifeline to those who might otherwise struggle to access traditional, in-person services. One of the most compelling benefits of virtual care in addiction treatment is its accessibility. It eliminates geographical barriers, allowing individuals in remote or underserved areas to receive vital support. Additionally, virtual care addresses time constraints, providing patients the flexibility to schedule sessions when it's most convenient. Virtual care also offers privacy and anonymity, critical factors for many battling addiction. The fear of stigma often prevents individuals from seeking help. However, virtual care allows patients to receive treatment discreetly, reducing the anxiety associated with in-person appointments. Moreover, evidence suggests that virtual care can be as effective as traditional methods in treating addiction. Multiple studies have compared addiction treatment delivered via telehealth with in-person treatment, showing promising results. Overcoming Obstacles with Virtual Care Despite its myriad benefits, addiction treatment is often fraught with obstacles. The cost of treatment, lack of local resources, and fear of stigma can deter individuals from seeking help. However, virtual care is poised to break down these barriers. Virtual care often costs less than traditional in-person therapy, making treatment more affordable. Moreover, with the rise of online platforms, patients now have a wealth of resources at their fingertips, including counseling, support groups, and educational materials. Perhaps most importantly, virtual care provides a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to seek help. Patients can access services from the comfort of their homes, eliminating the fear and shame often associated with in-person treatment. Conclusion The advent of virtual care marks a significant stride in making addiction treatment more accessible. By breaking down barriers and leveraging the power of technology, we can reach more individuals in need and provide them with the tools to reclaim their lives. As we continue to innovate, virtual care will undoubtedly play an integral role in the future of addiction treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, consider the benefits of virtual care. Reach out to healthcare providers who offer these services and take the first step towards recovery today. References: : https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help...: https://americanaddictioncenters.org/...: https://telehealth.hhs.gov/providers...: https://ps.psychiatryonline.org/...: https://www.addictioncenter.com/...: https://www.gatewayfoundation.org... : https://www.hazeldenbettyford... If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

The opioid crisis continues to pose a significant public health challenge, with millions of people across the globe struggling with opioid addiction. As the world seeks solutions to this crisis, technology has emerged as a powerful tool in the fight against opioid misuse and addiction. From virtual care platforms to predictive analytics and artificial intelligence, technology-based solutions are revolutionizing the way we prevent, diagnose, and treat opioid addiction. Revolutionizing Opioid Crisis Response and Addiction Treatment Through Technological Innovation Current Technology-Based Solutions Several technology-based solutions are currently being leveraged to combat opioid misuse and addiction. These innovative approaches offer greater convenience to patients, allowing them to receive treatment without the need for physical appointments. A significant technological advancement in the fight against opioid misuse is the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP). This technology aims to prevent opioid misuse by providing healthcare providers with a patient's prescription history, thereby preventing over-prescription of opioids. Moreover, technology is also playing a crucial role in improving our understanding of opioid addiction. Healthcare information technology has opened new doors in this regard, enabling us to gather and analyze data about opioid addiction to enhance our prevention and treatment strategies. The Power of Virtual Care Virtual care, enabled by technology, is transforming the way patients receive treatment and support for opioid addiction. With the advent of telemedicine and virtual care platforms, patients can now receive comprehensive care from the comfort of their homes. Virtual care offers numerous benefits over traditional care. First, it provides greater convenience to patients, eliminating the need for travel and enabling them to receive treatment at their preferred time and location. This convenience can be particularly beneficial for patients living in remote or rural areas, where access to specialized care can be limited. Second, virtual care enhances privacy and confidentiality, which can be a significant concern for many individuals struggling with addiction. With virtual care, patients can receive treatment in a private setting, free from the stigma that often surrounds addiction treatment. Finally, virtual care can increase access to specialized care. Through virtual platforms, patients can connect with specialists across the country, receiving the best possible care regardless of their geographic location. The Future: AI and Machine Learning Looking ahead, the potential for artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in addressing the opioid crisis is immense. AI tools capable of identifying and adaptively updating factors causing opioid addiction may significantly reduce the likelihood of addiction. AI and machine learning can also improve screening and diagnosis of opioid addiction. By analyzing patterns and trends in patient data, these technologies can identify individuals at high risk of opioid misuse, enabling early intervention and treatment. Furthermore, AI and machine learning can enhance the efficacy of treatment strategies. These technologies can analyze patient data to determine the most effective treatment strategies, enabling personalized care and improving recovery outcomes. Conclusion Technology offers promising solutions in the fight against the opioid crisis. By enhancing our ability to prevent, diagnose, and treat opioid addiction, technology represents a significant step forward in our battle against this global health crisis. As we continue to innovate and develop new technological solutions, there is hope that we can turn the tide on the opioid crisis and help those struggling with addiction achieve recovery and regain control of their lives. References: :https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/...:https://www.forbes.com/sites/...:https://www.healthcareitnews.com/news/...:https://policylab.rutgers.edu/... If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

73% of Young People Don't Know Fake Pills Contain Fentanyl This April, over 3,000 people gathered in Atlanta from across the country, as they have done for the past 12 years, to focus on how to mitigate the impact that illegal drugs have had on our society. We’ve all heard about the Opioid Crisis, but over the last few years, fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, has been the game changer that has been an inflection point to make the Opioid Crisis more deadly than it’s ever been. Many of the sessions were focused on harm reduction strategies like the distribution of Narcan, the drug to reverse overdose, ways to invest the dollars from the $56B opioid legal settlements, or legal strategies to toughen the penalties for distributing the drug. But while those initiatives are attempting to produce results, it was clear that we need to get the word out to our young people whose decision to experiment by taking that pill someone gave them might be their last. Fentanyl is involved in more deaths of Americans under 50 than any other cause of death (CDC) Just say no doesn't work any more! If any of you were around during the time that Reagan was president, you were also around for first lady Nancy Reagan’s ground-breaking campaign to reduce substance abuse by “just saying no”. While that campaign proved to be popular and somewhat effective, today’s young people who have access to social media and are much more sophisticated would likely be turned off. A lesson from Brevard County, Florida One of the most interesting sessions was from Brevard County, Florida as they crafted two social media campaigns: “I Choose Me” and “Better Without It”. What made these campaigns interesting is that they carefully considered their target audience and what strategies work to reach and persuade kids to go in a different direction. The “I Choose Me” campaign was focused on helping guide their audience to things that they could do vs. things they can’t do. The point was that young people will often do the opposite if you tell them what they can’t do or will just turn a deaf ear. Therefore, the campaign focused on making choices that made them healthier, happier, better people and safer. The campaign was supported by social media, videos and other collaterals and became one of the most talked about at the event. The Vision Session Vision sessions were delivered by paid sponsors in the mid-afternoon with one of the more interesting ones from Rescue, the Behavioral Change Agency that focused on the building blocks of a good messaging strategy designed to get people to make a change. Here was their concept. If you want to convince and persuade someone to do something they are not doing today, or stop doing something you don’t want them to do, you must cross 4 barriers: Do they have enough knowledge to understand the problem? If not, you start there by elevating their understanding.Do they believe the problem you are outlining pertains to them, or will they “otherize” it by concluding that this isn’t me, it’s a problem others have?Can they see themselves engaging in the behavior you want them to adopt?Will they repeat the behavior so it’s now wired into what they do everyday? How do you raise awareness? If you want to reach young people, you must get the message out where they go to watch videos or to connect with friends on social media. They follow influencers, watch TikTok videos, and get most of their information in small bites via text, Twitter, or Instagram. Educate them to protect them t is crucial for young people to understand the dangers of fentanyl because it is an extremely potent synthetic opioid that is many times more potent than other opioids such as morphine and heroin. Even small amounts of fentanyl can lead to a potentially fatal overdose. Fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs, such as heroin or cocaine, and sold on the street as counterfeit pills or powder. Young people may be unaware that they are taking fentanyl or may underestimate its potency, leading to unintentional overdose and death. LifeLine Connect Building technology to use data from wearables to detect overdose, alert others and send help to prevent fentanyl overdose deaths. Learn More

A National Conference to Address the Fentanyl Crisis This April, over 3,000 people gathered in Atlanta from across the country, as they have done for the past 12 years, to focus on how to mitigate the impact that illegal drugs have had on our society. We’ve all heard about the Opioid Crisis, but over the last few years, fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, has been the game changer that has been an inflection point to make the Opioid Crisis more deadly than it’s ever been. The Summit attracted people in law enforcement, treatment professionals, officials in public health, local, state and federal government and a host of others who collectively are trying to make a dent in what is one of the deadliest health crisis we face today, killing as many people in the last decade as we lost to Covid 19. Fentanyl is the "Game Changer" Why has fentanyl changed the game? Today, overdose kills over 100,000 people a year, but now fentanyl is present in about 75% or more of those deaths. This drug is flooding in from Mexico, is cut into almost every street drug or counterfeit pill and is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. In fact, the DEA revealed in their session that 6 of 10 counterfeit pills they tested had a fatal dose of fentanyl present. So kids who never were diagnosed with a substance use disorder decide to experiment, get handed a pill and unintentionally play Russian roulette because that pill may just have been “spiked”. Fentanyl is lucrative for the drug dealer. Fentanyl is cheap to make, easy to transport because of how small the substance is, and is highly profitable to the cartels. Most of the drugs we’ve come to know began their life as an agricultural product. Heroin starts with poppies; cocaine from a cocoa plant; marijuana from the leaves of a plant. It takes land and effort to grow the key ingredients of those drugs. However, fentanyl is synthetic and made easily in a lab or in your kitchen. What do the people at the Rx Summit say is being done to reverse the tide? No single initiative, answer or approach can solve what is the most complex health crisis in America. And everyone you ask has a different point of view. We heard from Republican congressionals that we need to close the border to stop the flow and from the Democrats that more social programs are needed.The head of the FDA touted the release of Narcan as an over-the-counter medication to reverse overdose, but the question becomes how to widely distribute it, teach people how to use it, an make sure they have Narcan with them. The CDC revealed their social media campaigns, videos, and educational resources to raise people’s awareness. And law enforcement was seeking reclassification of fentanyl as a Class A narcotic with much stiffer penalties for distributing it. A glimmer of hope is on the horizon, but comes with caveats. States went after the pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors and successfully negotiated global settlements that will result in over $56B in funds to go toward prevent, treatment and recovery services. The federal government has set aside over $44 B in grant money to augment the effort. Control of funding is in the hands of the people at the local level, but how to spend it is usually in the hands of a committee who is facing such a complex problem with so many pathways to make a dent that the answers are just not clear. The Summit amplified the level of confusion that exists at the local level who are generally operating without a blueprint and often with little experience or background in substance misuse and addiction. While we’re figuring things out, people are dying in record numbers. Kentucky congressman, Hal Rodgers started the Rx Summit 12 years ago, and it will continue to take the collective wisdom of all the stakeholders to use their creativity, experience, and knowledge to get the fentanyl crisis under control. We must be more innovative, try new approaches, leverage the power of technology and communication strategies that work to keep those airplanes flying so we don’t have to deal with the tragedies of the 300 people who lose their lives each day, destroy their families and leave loved ones devastated.  LifeLine Connect Building technology to use data from wearables to detect overdose, alert others and send help to prevent fentanyl overdose deaths. Learn More

Debunking Common Misconceptions about Fentanyl: Separating Fact from Fiction Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that has become a significant public health concern in recent years due to its widespread abuse and high potential for overdose. Despite the growing awareness of its dangers, many misconceptions about fentanyl persist, leading to misunderstandings about its uses, risks, and effects. In this article, we will explore some of the most common misconceptions about fentanyl, debunking myths and providing accurate information about this powerful drug. Here are some common misconceptions about fentanyl: Fentanyl is just another type of painkiller One of the most significant misconceptions about fentanyl is that it's just another type of painkiller. While it is a potent painkiller, it is also highly addictive and has a high potential for abuse. Unlike other painkillers, fentanyl is much stronger and can be lethal even in small doses. Fentanyl is only used for end-of-life care Another misconception about fentanyl is that it's only used for end-of-life care. While it is commonly used to manage severe pain in cancer patients or those who are terminally ill, it is also prescribed for other types of chronic pain, such as back pain or chronic headaches. Additionally, fentanyl is also illegally manufactured and sold on the streets as a recreational drug, which is a significant contributor to the opioid epidemic. Fentanyl is safe as long as it's prescribed by a doctor Many people believe that fentanyl is safe as long as it is prescribed by a doctor, but this is not entirely true. Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid, and even when taken as prescribed, it can be highly addictive and lead to dependence. Additionally, fentanyl can cause dangerous side effects, including respiratory depression, which can be fatal, especially when taken in high doses. Fentanyl is only a problem in the United States Another common misconception is that fentanyl is only a problem in the United States. While the opioid epidemic has been particularly severe in the US, fentanyl abuse and overdose deaths have been reported in other parts of the world as well. Fentanyl is now being trafficked globally, and its illicit use has become a significant public health concern worldwide. In conclusion, it's crucial to recognize these common misconceptions about fentanyl to better understand the risks associated with its use. Fentanyl is a powerful and potentially deadly drug that requires careful management, whether it is being used medically or illicitly. Read more articles on prevention here.Read More Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

How Pharmaceutical Companies Fueled the Opioid Epidemic The role of pharmaceutical companies in the opioid crisis is a complex and controversial issue. Many experts believe that the overprescription of opioids by healthcare providers played a major role in the epidemic. However, pharmaceutical companies also played a significant role in promoting the use of opioids for chronic pain management, and their marketing and lobbying practices have been called into question. Here are some of the ways in which pharmaceutical companies have contributed to the epidemic: Overprescription of Opioids Pharmaceutical companies marketed opioids aggressively to healthcare providers, emphasizing their effectiveness in treating chronic pain and downplaying the risks of addiction and overdose. This led to the widespread overprescription of opioids, with many patients being prescribed higher doses and for longer durations than recommended. Addiction & Overdose The overprescription of opioids led to widespread addiction, with many patients becoming dependent on these drugs to manage their pain. This, in turn, led to a sharp increase in overdose deaths, as patients who were unable to access opioids through legal channels turned to illegal drugs like heroin and fentanyl. Marketing & Lobbying Practices Pharmaceutical companies engaged in aggressive marketing and lobbying practices to promote the use of opioids for chronic pain management. They also funded organizations and research that supported the use of opioids, while opposing regulations that would have limited their distribution. Liability & Legal Action Pharmaceutical companies have faced lawsuits and legal action from individuals, states, and local governments for their role in the opioid crisis. Many have been found liable for misleading marketing practices and have been ordered to pay large settlements. Public Backlash The role of pharmaceutical companies in the opioid crisis has also led to widespread public backlash, with many people calling for increased regulation and accountability for these companies. Overall, the effects of pharmaceutical companies in the opioid crisis have been devastating, contributing to widespread addiction, overdose deaths, and social and economic costs. While some progress has been made in holding these companies accountable, many experts argue that more needs to be done to prevent future crises and ensure that patients receive safe and effective pain management. Explore our Insights pavilion to read more articles on the opioid crisis.Learn More Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

Narcan Approved for Over-the-Counter Purchase As of 2021, Narcan (naloxone), a medication that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an over-the-counter (OTC) drug. This means that individuals can purchase and use Narcan without a prescription from a healthcare provider. The FDA's decision to approve Narcan as an OTC drug is part of the agency's efforts to combat the opioid epidemic in the US. By making Narcan more easily accessible, it is hoped that more lives can be saved in the event of an overdose. Making Narcan (naloxone) available as an over-the-counter (OTC) drug can help the opioid crisis in several ways: Increased Accessibility  By making Narcan available without a prescription, it can be more easily obtained by those who need it. This includes individuals who use opioids themselves, as well as family members, friends, and other bystanders who may witness an overdose. Faster Response Time With Narcan readily available, it can be administered more quickly in the event of an overdose. This can help to prevent overdose-related deaths and give individuals a greater chance of survival. Reduced Stigma The availability of Narcan as an OTC drug can help to reduce the stigma associated with opioid use and overdose. It sends a message that addiction is a treatable medical condition, and that there is help and support available to those who need it. Cost Savings OTC Narcan can potentially be more affordable and accessible to those who do not have insurance or cannot afford a prescription. Overall, increasing the availability of Narcan through OTC status can help to save lives and address the public health crisis of opioid overdose deaths. However, it is important to note that OTC Narcan is not a substitute for comprehensive addiction treatment and other harm reduction strategies.Continue reading more articles on addiction prevention here:Read More Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

The Role of Technology The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of technology for addiction support services, and many people have become accustomed to receiving support services in this way.While these changes were born out of necessity, they have the potential to transform the way addiction and recovery services are delivered in the long term. Here are some ways in which people have adapted to receiving addiction support services using technology during the pandemic: Telehealth Many addiction treatment providers have pivoted to providing telehealth services, which allow people to receive therapy and counseling via video conference or phone. Telehealth has allowed people to continue to receive vital support services while avoiding in-person contact and reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Online Support Groups Online support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, have become increasingly popular during the pandemic. These groups provide a safe and supportive environment for people to share their experiences and struggles with addiction and receive encouragement and support from others in recovery. Mobile Apps There are many mobile apps that provide support and resources for people in recovery from addiction. These apps can be used to track progress, connect with others in recovery, and access helpful information and resources. Virtual Recovery Coaching Virtual recovery coaching allows people to work with a coach or mentor remotely to develop a recovery plan, set goals, and receive support and encouragement. This can be particularly useful for people who may not have access to in-person recovery support services in their area. Overall, while the pandemic has presented many challenges for people in recovery from addiction, it has also highlighted the potential of technology to provide flexible and accessible support services. Many people have found these services to be effective and convenient, and they may continue to be used even after the pandemic subsides.Explore more valuable resources and informative articles on the topic of recovery in our Insights catalog.Read More Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

The ACP, A Game Changer Connecting People in the Fight Against Opioids The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a program launched by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States to help low-income households access affordable high-speed internet services. The program is part of the broader Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) initiative, which was established in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to help individuals and families stay connected during the public health emergency. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a game-changer in the fight against opioids for several reasons, including: Access to Telehealth The ACP provides affordable high-speed internet access, making telehealth services accessible to underserved communities. This program enables people in rural or remote areas to receive medical care, including mental health services and addiction treatment, without leaving their homes. Education & Awareness The ACP provides people with the resources and knowledge they need to understand the dangers of opioids, including how to recognize the signs of addiction, how to safely dispose of medication, and how to access addiction treatment. Support for Recovery The ACP connects individuals in recovery with resources and support services, including online recovery support groups, virtual meetings, and peer-to-peer support. Accessibility  The ACP provides individuals with easy access to information and resources on opioid addiction, including prevention and treatment options. This program connects people with community resources, treatment centers, and support groups, ensuring that they have the resources they need to overcome addiction. Overall, the Affordable Connectivity Program plays a crucial role in connecting people in the fight against opioids by providing access to education, support, and treatment resources to those who need them the most.Explore our education library here:Read More Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

Spreading Awareness of the Risks of Fentanyl You hear about fentanyl on the news, but there is still a large number of people out there that are undereducated about its risks and potential to kill themselves and their loved ones. Take a look at why vital information about this very deadly drug is not making it into the hands of the people that need to know the risks. There are several reasons why communities may be undereducated about the risks of fentanyl: Lack of information Fentanyl is a relatively new drug in the illegal drug market, and many people may not have heard of it or know much about its effects. Additionally, information about fentanyl may not be widely disseminated to the public through traditional channels such as schools or healthcare providers. Stigma The stigma associated with drug use may prevent people from seeking information about fentanyl or discussing it openly. This may contribute to a lack of awareness about the risks of fentanyl and other drugs. Limited access to education and prevention programs Some communities may lack access to education and prevention programs that provide information about the risks of fentanyl and other drugs. This may be due to limited funding or resources, or a lack of awareness about the need for these programs. Changing nature of the opioid epidemic The opioid epidemic has evolved over time, with fentanyl becoming a more prominent factor in recent years. It may take time for education and prevention efforts to catch up with these changes and for communities to become more aware of the risks associated with fentanyl. Misinformation There is a lot of misinformation circulating about fentanyl, which can contribute to confusion and misunderstandings about the drug. For example, some people may believe that fentanyl is only dangerous if injected, while others may believe that it is not as potent as it actually is. Overall, there are several factors that may contribute to a lack of education about the risks of fentanyl in communities. Addressing these factors will require a multi-pronged approach that includes education and prevention programs, funding and resources, and efforts to reduce stigma and misinformation.Read more articles about prevention to recognize the warning signs of potential addiction, understand who is most at risk and implement strategies to prevent the onset of the disease. Read More Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

#sticky { position: sticky; position: -webkit-sticky; background: #e8ebe8; width: 80px; height: 80px; top: 70px; display: flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; box-shadow: 0 0 5px #000; } .extra, #wrapper { width: 75%; margin: auto; background-color: #9ad996; } #wrapper { height: 800px; } .extra { height: 100px; } body { font-family: georgia; height: 1000px; } @media (min-height: 768px) { #wrapper { height: 2000px; } } Online Recovery Support Groups & Their Benefits  It's no secret that the opioid crisis has had the most profoundly negative impact on citizens in rural America. It is estimated that there are 250,000 fewer treatment specialists available to work with people in crisis and often the needed support network fails to meet the needs of people who live in less densely populated areas. However, while the Pandemic was teaching us how to work remotely, it also was teaching us how to deliver much needed support services for people in rural America. Online support groups offer several benefits for individuals seeking recovery support, including: Accessibility  Online support groups can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easier for individuals who live in remote areas or who have mobility issues to access support. This also eliminates the need for transportation, which can be a barrier to attending in-person support groups. Anonymity Online support groups can be anonymous, allowing individuals to participate without revealing their identity if they choose. This can be particularly helpful for people who feel stigmatized or ashamed about their addiction and may be hesitant to seek support in person. Flexibility Online support groups offer greater flexibility in terms of scheduling and frequency, as many groups are available 24/7 and can be accessed at any time. This can be especially helpful for individuals with busy schedules or who may need support outside of traditional office hours. Variety There are many different online support groups available, each with its own focus and approach. This allows individuals to find a group that meets their specific needs and preferences. Support from Peers Online support groups offer the opportunity to connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges and struggles. This can provide a sense of validation, empathy, and support that can be very helpful in the recovery process. Reduced Stigma Online support groups can help reduce the stigma associated with addiction by providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and struggles without fear of judgment or discrimination. Overall, online support groups can be an effective and convenient way for individuals to receive recovery support, and they offer several unique benefits that may not be available with in-person support groups. Read more articles on recovery and the process of treating and managing the disease ofaddiction to achieve wellness here. Read More Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

Over $50B in Opioid Settlement Funds Find their Way to State Governments & Local Organizations For those of who who haven't watched a Western in a while, the pivotal moment in the movie is when the cavalry comes just in time to win the battle and save the day.  Never is a cavalry needed more than in the fight against opioids that is killing over 100,000 of our friends and family each year. The very dedicated teams inside the Attorney Generals' offices across all states have created a strategy to hold the manufacturers and distributors of prescription opioids accountable for the immense harm these drugs have done to decimate our rural communities, destroy families and take more lives than the Vietnam and Gulf Wars combined.   So now that the cavalry has arrived and they have brought over $50B in settlement dollars to date to fight the war on opioids, what does this all mean to you, your family and others that have been impacted by addiction, overdose, or death?   Here is what you need to know about the settlement: Way different than the Tobacco Settlement! In 1998, state governments reached a 25-year, $246 billion deal with the country’s largest tobacco companies to hold the industry accountable for the lethal effects of smoking and provide support for anti-tobacco programs.  But that deal had no requirements in how the money was spent, so the vast majority went to fund state programs not related to tobacco or its consequences. We learned from the tobacco fiasco and the strategy for dealing with the opioid crisis was designed quite differently.  The vast majority of the funds must be used for "opioid abatement" to improve treatment, recovery services, offer education and focus on prevention.  Any organization receiving funds must report back each year to detail how that money is spent to ensure that this time, funds will go to the purpose it was intended for. So, where did the money come from? $26 billion comes from manufacturer Johnson & Johnson and “big three” distributors McKesson, AmerisourceBergen, and Cardinal Health.  This settlement was reached in February 2022. CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart agreed to settle their claims with state, local, and tribal governments which added another $13.9B in 2022.   Other litigation is underway with settlements on the horizon from Purdue Pharmaceuticals, Mallinckrodt, Teva, Abbvie, and Endo enriching the available opioid settlement funds by almost $15B. How can the funds can be used? There are very specific controls of what the money can and can't be used for.  States can use 15% of those funds to offset administrative expenses or fund state-run opioid related abatement programs.  States can also use 15% of the money for whatever they want such as administrative expenses, but keep in mind that this number is very conservative compared to what happened to the $246 tobacco settlement money. That means that 70% of the money will flow down to local organizations that are on the front-line of the opioid crisis, particularly in rural areas.  And they will be required to use 70% of the money future opioid abatement such as prevention programs, improved recovery services or better treatment. Is there a plan? Every state has the ability to craft a plan that works for their state.  Take Colorado as an example.  Colorado is divided into 19 regions that are governed at the local level.  Each region has a different set of opioid-related issues, but if you look at the southern part of the state, the population is being decimated with the influx of fentanyl across their boarders.  These regional organizations have advisory committees to help address the needs of the people in their particular region. The bottom line is that states are focused on the unique needs of their citizens and are doing their homework to make sure that this settlement money is spent where it will have the most impact. So what are the risks? There is a lot of money that is flowing into organizations that are typically underfunded or bootstrapping how they currently manage an out-of-control opioid crisis.  So there are risks that the funds will not be spent in ways that have the most impact.  If the states put this money in a "general fund", then legislators may spend it in ways that are not useful.  If local organizations don't get help and guidance, they may not have the background or sophistication to think beyond traditional programs that have proven to be ineffective. Yes, the cavalry has arrived and that charge has been lead by the diligent work of the attorney generals and their staffs in the states where you live.  But that's only one battle in a long war against the misuse of opioids and the resulting casualties of this on-going war.  If you want to know how your state plans to spend the money and if you want to get involved, do your research by going to the Opioid Settlement Tracker created by Christine Minhee, a young lawyer who is crusading to ensure transparency on how funds are being allocated to each state and what the plan is to invest those dollars. View other articles regarding the Opioid Settlement to learn more about how states and local governments are using settlement funds for opioid prevention and abatement.View Articles Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

Technology: How Can it Help? Technology is being increasingly used in opioid abatement programs to address the opioid epidemic and support individuals in recovery. Learn how technology is now the latest weapon in the fight against the opioid crisis. Some of the ways technology is being used in these programs include: Telemedicine Telemedicine involves the use of technology, such as video conferencing, to provide medical care remotely. Telemedicine can be particularly useful in opioid abatement programs for individuals in remote or rural areas who may have difficulty accessing medical care. It can also reduce the stigma associated with seeking treatment for substance use disorders. Mobile Apps Mobile apps can be used to track medication adherence, manage pain, and provide support for individuals in recovery. For example, some apps provide daily affirmations, mindfulness exercises, and coping strategies to help individuals manage cravings and stress.  Prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) PDMPs are electronic databases that track prescription drug dispensing and use. They can help identify patterns of prescription drug abuse and inform interventions and treatment strategies. Electronic health records (EHRs) EHRs can help facilitate communication and coordination of care between different healthcare providers involved in opioid abatement programs. They can also provide real-time data on patient outcomes, which can help inform treatment decisions.  Wearable technology Wearable technology, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, can be used to monitor vital signs and provide feedback on physical activity levels. This information can be used to inform treatment decisions and provide motivation and support for individuals in recovery. Overall, technology can play a valuable role in opioid abatement programs by improving access to care, supporting individuals in recovery, and providing real-time data to inform treatment decisions. However, it is important to ensure that technology is used in a responsible and ethical manner and that it does not replace the human connection and support that is essential for successful recovery.Learn more about how InterAct Lifeline leverages technology to improve recovery, reduce relapse and prevent substance misuse.Learn More Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

The Dangers of Fentanyl Five years ago, I lost my 29-year old daughter to overdose after a 15-year struggle with addiction. She used just about every illegal drug on the list, including opioids and the risk of her overdosing was always there. However, if we were talking about Laura today, her risk of overdose would have skyrocketed because of the prevalence of Fentanyl. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times more potent. It is often prescribed for pain, but it is now mass produced by the Mexican cartels, shipped into the United States and is added to other street drugs like cocaine or heroin.  And just a tiny dose can kill you. It's time that all of us, particularly parents, get our heads out of the sand and elevate our understanding of this powerful and dangerous opioid. Here is what you need to know: The New Phase of the Opioid Epidemic During the past seven years, soaring quantities of fentanyl have flooded into the United States, creating the most lethal drug crisis in American history to become significantly worse. The fentanyl most often associated with overdoses is made in labs, sold illegally as a powder, dropped onto blotter paper, put in eye droppers and nasal sprays, or made into pills that look like other prescription opioids. What are the statistics telling us? Fentanyl is now the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18 to 49, according to a Washington Post analysis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can't track overdose deaths in real-time and counts the death toll for 2021. So a year ago, it calculated the overall number of drug overdoses at 107,622. Two-thirds were due to fentanyl. Overdose deaths skyrocketed during the Pandemic. According to the Washington post,"From 2019 to 2021, fatal overdoses surged 94 percent, and an estimated 196 Americans are now dying each day from the drug — the equivalent of a fully loaded Boeing 757-200 crashing and killing everyone on board." How does fentanyl affect you? Fentanyl binds to the opioid receptors in the brain that control pain and emotions. Continued use makes it hard to feel any pleasure other than when you are taking the drug. Aside from that, there are other side effects such as drowsiness, nausea, confusion, extreme happiness, constipation, problems breathing and unconsciousness. What happens when you overdose on Fentanyl An overdose occurs when the drug produces serious adverse effects and life-threatening symptoms. When people overdose on fentanyl, their breathing will slow or stop. This decreases the amount of oxygen that reaches the brain, a condition called hypoxia. Hypoxia can lead to a coma and permanent brain damage, and death.  (This is what ended my daughter's life). Signs of an overdose are: Falling asleep, loss of consciousness Shallow or no breathing Limp body (though may be rigid with fentanyl)Choking or gurgling soundsSmall, constricted, 'pinpoint' pupils (may be difficult to see in an emergency)Pale blue or cold skin, lips, or nails (factors including skin tone could make this difficult to see) So how do I minimize the risks to my friends or family? First, knowledge is power. Parents should proactively have the conversation with their kids to educate them about the hidden dangers of fentanyl and how it can be mixed into other drugs they might consider relative harmless like pot. They should assume high overdose risk no matter what drug they might use. Fentanyl is undetectable by sight, smell, or taste. Fentanyl Test strips are a harm reduction tool that detects the presence of fentanyl mixed into a substance, such has cocaine or heroin. Never in the history of the War on Drugs declared by Richard Nixon decades ago have we faced such an unprecedented threat from a substance that is easy to make, hard to detect and flooding into our country. It's critical we understand the risk from fentanyl and make sure we educate those around us to not play Russian Roulette by buying opioids off the street or assuming that there is no risk of fentanyl when you use other drugs like cocaine or pot. Take a look at what happened to five friends in Colorado to get an up close and personal look at the damage fentanyl can do. Read the Article Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

The "Ostrich Effect" in Substance Abuse There is a term that psychologists often refer to as the "Ostrich Effect". Simply put, this is an attempt to avoid any information, news or conversation that you might consider uncomfortable or unpleasant. All of us have been guilty of hiding our heads in the sand if we don't want to hear bad news about our health, finances, meeting our goals or even our weight if we're worried we just haven't lost enough from our latest diet. The Ostrich Effect is an attempt to protect ourselves from the emotional impact of hearing bad news; however, when it comes to facing the realities of the substance misuse landscape, the potential to die from an overdose and the damage caused to your family, it's time to get our heads out of the sand and start to pay attention. Here are some reasons that many of us become ostriches when it comes to the difficult realities of substance misuse, addiction and overdose. This would never happen to me I joined a Facebook group run by Compassionate Friends that is devoted to parents who have lost an adult child to overdose. Aside from heartbreaking stories of grief and loss, so many of the members of this group are stunned by their seemingly normal child who overdosed and died.  Will this happen to someone in your family?  Well, the statistics are now working against us with over 107,000 dying from overdose each year, primarily from fentanyl that is now laced into pills bought off the street, pot, cocaine and many other substances that you would never expect. It can happen to you and now it's happening to families all around you. But I have good kids I had a "good kid" who played soccer, was a girl scout and a good student, but at age 14 she started smoking pot, then it went downhill from there. All "good kids" have brains that are not fully developed until about age 26, so exposure to substances or alcohol at young ages will rewire the brain of at least 1 in 10 adolescents turning them into full-blown addicts by the time they leave high school.  "Good kids" experiment, but that experimentation leads to a very big number of them developing the disease of addiction that has to be managed over a lifetime. I would know if someone I love is using I founded and ran a licensed treatment program for adolescents ages 13-17 (Phoenix Outdoor). One of the most common things parents would say to us is, "I had no idea."  Your kids and family members are smarter than you think and when it comes to abusing substances and they are masters at hiding that fact from you, finding ways to fund their habit, and staying under the radar. If you think you are smarter or more perceptive than your teenager, your coworker, your spouse or friend, think again. People misusing substances get really good at fooling those around them. It's just pot - how bad could that be? If you smoked pot years ago when you were in high school and college, be aware that the pot your kids are consuming is much more potent than what you might remember. People do and can become addicted to it with side effects that include mental health issues like depression, a drop in IQ, impacts on coordination, and overall demotivation. Marijuana is not harmless. It can cause psychosis, other significant side effects, and addiction,  but when mixed with an opioid such as fentanyl, there are even greater risks including death. Fentanyl is hard to detect so you may not even know it's there. It couldn't be addiction.  They can just stop whenever they want to. And maybe that's true with some people, but for others who have developed the disease of addiction, it's way harder than you think.  The brain has now been rewired and it overproduces dopamine in the presence of a substance which is a huge shot to your pleasure center.  Addicts are often compelled to use vs. choosing to use. You can put your head in the sand and think this issue will just magically disappear, but the reality is that it takes work to break the habit and treat the disease over the long haul. I grew up in a small Georgia town that was so conservative, you couldn't even buy alcohol and certainly there were few or no drugs available when I was in school. But times today are quite different.  People, particularly adolescents, now have so many other ways to find substances, experiment with them, and get addicted. So if you think it would never happen to you, that you have good kids or that you are smarter than the rest of us in being able to detect and solve the problem, think again. You are an "ostrich" if you stick your head in the sand, fail to learn about the landscape we now find ourselves in, and raise your awareness about the impact of the opioid crisis that is right in your backyard, whether you know it or not. When your head comes out of the sand, you can learn how to prevent misuse and prevent the disaster that could happen to you.Learn more about the warning signs of addiction and how to prevent substance abuse below.Read More Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

The current opioid crisis gripping the United States and other parts of the world is a stark reminder of the destructive power of addiction. However, an even more insidious threat lies beneath the surface: the lacing of commonly abused drugs with fentanyl. This synthetic opioid, up to 100 times more potent than morphine, presents a significant public health hazard. The Growing Epidemic of Fentanyl-Contaminated Substances Understanding Fentanyl  Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid used medically to manage severe pain, such as advanced cancer pain. However, its potency and euphoric effects have led to its misuse. Illicitly produced fentanyl and its analogs are often mixed with heroin or cocaine, significantly increasing their potency and potential for overdose. The Impact of Fentanyl on Public Health The impact of fentanyl on public health has been devastating. In 2018, nearly 70% of the 67,367 drug overdose deaths in the U.S. involved an opioid, with synthetic opioids, primarily illicitly manufactured fentanyl, being the most common drug involved. The problem has escalated during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a 38% increase in synthetic opioid-involved overdose deaths for the 12-month period ending June 2020 compared to the previous 12-month period. The Severity of Overdose Cases The risk of overdose increases significantly when fentanyl is added to other drugs. Because it is so potent, even a tiny amount can cause an overdose. Moreover, people often don't know that the drugs they're using are laced with fentanyl, leading to accidental overdoses. Fentanyl Lacing in Commonly Abused Drugs Fentanyl is increasingly being found in other drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine, and counterfeit pills disguised as common prescription medications. This is particularly concerning because people who use these drugs may not have any tolerance to opioids, making them highly susceptible to an overdose. Identifying and Avoiding Laced DrugsIdentifying laced drugs can be difficult, as fentanyl is often mixed into drugs or pressed into pills without changing their appearance. However, several harm reduction strategies can help reduce the risk: Use test strips: Fentanyl test strips can detect the presence of fentanyl in drugs. Never use alone: If an overdose occurs, having someone present can call for help. Carry naloxone: Naloxone can reverse an opioid overdose and save a life. Conclusion The fentanyl crisis underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address substance abuse and addiction. As we continue to grapple with this issue, let's strive to raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl-laced drugs and take action to protect ourselves and our communities. References: : https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/...: https://nida.nih.gov/...: https://www.cdc.gov/...: https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/...: https://www.dea.gov/alert...: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/...: https://harmreduction.org/issu...: https://nida.nih.gov/publicati... If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

Atlanta, GA — December 3, 2019 — GivingTuesday — InterAct Lifeline, a SaaS technology solution for addiction treatment and prevention, today announced InterAct Cares, a nonprofit division that supports providing online portal technology and telehealth access at zero or reduced cost to collegiate recovery communities, civic groups, and nonprofits whose mission is to fight the opioid crisis. Donations to InterAct Cares defray the cost of the technology to groups that provide education, treatment or social services to clients or communities that don’t have funding to purchase and manage the technology.

Atlanta, GA — August 12, 2020 — InterAct LifeLine, today launched the InterAct Opioid Resource Platform, an addiction education knowledgebase designed to support Rural Health Initiatives at the federal, state and local level. The Opioid Resource Platform delivers patient and family support tools and telehealth resources to provide relief from the opioid crisis in rural communities where access to treatment is often unavailable. The InterAct platform complies with HIPAA regulations and ADA accessibility and is custom branded for state, regional, municipal or school districts, along with private treatment programs. Each portal is connected to a centralized online library populated with current educational resources on a wide range of drug-related topics, family support and wellness strategies. Community organizations can use the InterAct Opioid Resource Platform to connect and refer individuals to local resources, community contacts and virtual support groups.

Atlanta, GA — August 11, 2020 — InterAct LifeLine, a telehealth platform delivering education and content on addiction and wellness, has moved from a beta program to full release offering addiction treatment programs as well as state and local community groups the ability to use technology for remote patient monitoring and keeping individuals connected virtually after they have completed an addiction rehab program. InterAct LifeLine offers structure and accountability, virtual connections to support groups and treatment professionals, along with education about how to maintain recovery and individual monitoring when needed. InterAct is a sister company of Convey Services.

Atlanta, GA — December 10, 2019 — InterAct Lifeline, a SaaS technology solution for addiction treatment and prevention, today announced the formation of its Strategic Advisory Board. The new board is composed of accomplished leaders in the mental health, telehealth and related technology industries. The board will provide strategic input and support and will be chaired by Carolyn Bradfield, Founder, and CEO of InterAct.

Atlanta, GA — August 1, 2019 — InterAct today launched InterAct LifeLine, the first in a series of online technology solutions designed to reduce addiction relapse, improve long-term recovery care and offer drug abuse prevention support for families. LifeLine helps addiction treatment and collegiate recovery programs leverage technology to better serve their clients, students and families, keeping them connected and improving patient outcomes. InterAct is a newly-formed subsidiary of Convey Holdings and built on portal and networking technology developed by Convey Services.

Learning Hard Lessons from the Tobacco Settlement"As state and local officials weigh proposed multibillion-dollar settlements to resolve cases against Purdue Pharma, Johnson & Johnson, and other drug companies in the U.S. opioid epidemic, public health experts have noted a cautionary tale contained in the past and present of an even larger agreement.In an interview with the Gazette, Brandt, the Amalie Moses Kass Professor of the History of Medicine and a professor of the history of science, looked back on the Big Tobacco deal and shared his views on the best strategy for distributing funds from pending opioid settlements.Read the Article

For 15 years, my daughter Laura and I struggled to understand the disease that had her in its grips and devastated our family. She made one last fateful decision, overdosed and two days later died on December 21, 2017. When we held vigil in the hospital watching Laura’s life slip away, her close friend in recovery reminded me that she and I were now in a “position of privilege” and not of our own choosing. We had experienced the disease of addiction close up, gained insight from our struggles, and had the potential to make a difference with those that struggle to understand the disease and develop a plan to maintain health and recovery. For over a year, I processed how to turn my grief into purpose and shortly after Laura’s death writing a series of articles, Lessons from LauraOpens in new window and redirects to external site., to personalize our struggle and alert others that even the best families are not immune from the disease. In early 2019, how I could make an impact became clear. I had unique experiences as the parent of an addict, had founded and run an adolescent treatment program, and owned a technology company. I discovered that the risk of dying from overdose was now the number one killer of anyone under the age of 50 because of the emergence of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Flooding in from Mexico and disguised in counterfeit pills, heroin, cocaine and even marijuana, someone that may just be experimenting or like Laura, making one bad decision could be poisoned from only a few grains of the synthetic opioid and overdose. I also realized that technology had the potential to detect the leading indicators of overdose from devices that young people wear everyday, their smart watch or fitness tracker, send that data to us and allow our technology to alert others and send help. Laura was only a mile from the hospital and could have been saved if this detection and alerting system had been online.I also learned that there were new tools in the fight against the opioid crisis from the hard work of our states' attorneys general who negotiated over $50 billion in funding from opioid litigation to fund prevention programs, awareness campaigns and connection to recovery and treatment services, a beacon of hope in a difficult fight.But most parents were not focused on the drug that has taken over as the biggest threat to a young person's safety, nor did they want to believe that what happened to our family could happen to them. So it became clear that our mission was to raise their awareness that the hope that it will not happen to you is no longer a strategy to keep their sons and daughters safe.We are committed to use our experience, knowledge, technology and resources to save lives, help families, and create strategies for young people to choose to be healthy and safe.Carolyn BradfieldCEO, Convey Services & InterAct LifeLine

Unlocking the Key Components of the Opioid Settlement AgreementsArticle by by Sam Mermin, Rebekah Falkner, Katie Greene"To understand common challenges and promising practices for state leaders in opioid settlement planning and spending, NASHP is engaging key state leaders across the country to understand the structure and status of their current opioid settlement planning activities. NASHP is also analyzing governing materials and entities such as state legislation, opioid settlement agreements and spending plans, advisory committees, and other entities charged with disbursing state funding, as referenced in NASHP’s tracker.  With many states still establishing processes and administrative structures to guide settlement spending, understanding key responsibilities outlined in settlement agreements and how different states have approached planning can help support states in promoting greater transparency, coordination, and efficacy of opioid settlement spending."Read the Article

Online Resource Guide to Opioid Litigation SettlementsFrom the website:"OpioidSettlementTracker.com is written and produced by Christine Minhee. She tracks opioid settlements and states’ opioid settlement spending plans to discover whether funds from the opioid litigation will indeed be spent to bolster the public health response to drug use. Christine originally launched this site in 2019 as a Soros Justice Fellow and Visiting Scholar at the University of Washington School of Law, where she co-authored “The Cure for America’s Opioid Crisis? End the War on Drugs” (Harvard Journal of Law & Public Policy, with Steve P. Calandrillo, Kim Kardashian’s favorite Barbri instructor). She now uses the data she has amassed to assist governments and select non-profit organizations better understand the opioid settlement landscape. She specifically advocates for harm reduction uses of funds. She is a Dean’s Medal winner from UW Law, holds a B.A. from Stanford University, and is a graduate of the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism’s Publishing Course."Visit Opioid Settlement Tracker

John's Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health recently published 5 principles to help guide state and local organizations in their use of funds from the opioid abatement settlements.  According to their website: "States, cities, counties, and tribes will soon be receiving funds from opioid manufacturers, pharmaceutical distributors, and pharmacies as a result of litigation brought against these companies for their role in the opioid epidemic that has claimed more than half a million lives over the past two decades. Visit the Website

Overdose Rates Skyrocket During the PandemicMore than 106,000 persons in the U.S. died from drug-involved overdose in 2021, including illicit drugs and prescription opioids. The figure above is a bar and line graph showing the total number of U.S. drug overdose deaths involving select illicit or prescription drugs from 1999 to 2021. The bars are overlaid by lines showing the number of deaths by gender from 1999 to 2021 Read the Article

Addiction, Alcohol, Drugs, Recovery, Science

In this episode, Can The Brain Recover From Addiction, we explore the brain's recovery from addiction to substances, like opioids and alcohol, and whether our brains are capable of making a complete recovery from any damage sustained from substance abuse and dependence. Can the brain recover from addiction? Description from Brief Brain Snacks

Addiction, benzos, prescription pills, valium, xanax

In her article Temma Ehrenfeld says,"We’ve heard plenty about the opioid epidemic. But there’s another less recognized prescription drug problem: benzodiazepines like Ativan, Xanax, Valium, and Klonopin. While doctors are prescribing fewer painkillers, prescriptions for these anti-anxiety drugs are still going up."This article discusses the dangers of benzos and how they are often being overprescribed leading to abuse. Read the full article

Podcast

Carolyn: (00:00) Hello, I'm Carolyn Bradfield. And I'd like to welcome our listeners to the Audio Journal series from interact LifeLine. Interact LifeLine is a technology service focused on helping addiction treatment and collegiate recovery programs keep individuals connected to treatment, to community and to their families to improve recovery and reduce relapse. **Introduction Music** Carolyn: (00:27) Good afternoon everyone, or morning whenever you're listening to this podcast. This is Carolyn Bradfield. I'm the CEO of Interact Lifeline and we are starting a new series in our podcast called Interact Studios. In this podcast we're going to have conversations with people that are from our industry in the mental health addiction and recovery space. And hopefully people that listen will learn a lot from our talk. So what I'd like to do today is introduce you to Dr. Sandy Newes. say hi, Sandy so people can hear your voice. Sandy: Hi everyone. Carolyn: I'm in Atlanta, Georgia. Sandy is in lovely Asheville, North Carolina, and, Sandy and I have known each other for a number of years. We worked together in the industry at Phoenix outdoor, an outdoor behavioral healthcare program in North Carolina. Sandy was our clinical director, as well as our testing psychologist. And so I have a deep level of respect for her in terms of her understanding of working with adolescents and young adults who had been struggling with substance misuse and addiction. And beyond working with adolescents and young adults, Sandy also has had significant contact with their parents, to help them understand the journey that their own with their loved one in terms of working, and helping them recover. Sandy also in my opinion, is one of the best testing psychologists in the country and so she does a complete analysis of an individual to understand their learning styles, their behavioral issues, and their mental health issues to provide parents and the individual with a thorough understanding of what's causing them to struggle along with making recommendations to move forward and to be healthier. Sandy has an extensive history in training and education. She works with other clinicians to help them better understand how to work with at-risk clientele, and she is especially focused on those that are struggling with substance misuse. So Sandy, you've got a million credentials, to your name, but beyond what I just shared in terms of our personal experience together, round out for the audience, the other areas that you focus on. Sandy: (03:21) So my broad areas are trauma, chronic stress, anxiety and self regulation issues of which addiction is a part of that. And I really believe that those are the underlying pieces in addiction. And so I have a private practice and Asheville as Carolyn mentioned. And not only do I test do testing, I see individual clients, about a third of my practice are adult or young adults, primarily in adults, some adolescents, but in early recovery or mid level recovery from addiction, as well as people who are struggling with chronic stress and anxiety. And I incorporate a real brain-based focus on working. So I use skills to help regulate the nervous system and help teach people how to balance their brains, which has everything to do with behavior. And I also incorporate neurofeedback into that. And then I do training around those types of things for not only clinicians, but also staff at therapeutic programs nationwide. Carolyn: (04:24) You are by far one of the smartest people that I know and certainly well-respected in the industry. So again, you're welcome. so, and yeah, our first initial minutes in this conversation, we've used the word addiction quite a lot. And as a psychologist you've treated hundreds of adolescents and young adults that are struggling with addiction over the years. So let's get the audience a level set definition of what addiction really is. So in layman's terms, can you just give us a good understanding about what we're, what we're facing here, what really is addiction? Sandy: (05:08) Sure. There's a tremendous amount of science around the way addictive substances impact the brain. And, but I'm not going to go into that right now, but it is really important to understand that this is a brain-based disease that people who, whose substance use moves into addiction have a different response to the same substances and their chemical responses and their brain respond differently than people who use and don't become addicts. And so essentially what happens is some kind of different chemical process happens in the brain that leads an individual, It can start in adolescence and move into adulthood. That leads them to become increasingly preoccupied with using the substance. That sets up a whole different brain-based kind of physiological response and that leads to increased preoccupations and ultimately cravings and those preoccupations and cravings lead to the individual really not recognizing the impact of their behavior or prioritizing the substance use above all of that. So it has nothing to do with willpower, moral or character. It has everything to do with the way the brain interacts with the substance that continues to worsen over time. Carolyn: (06:27) You know, I'm glad that you mentioned that this is not what a lot of people think it is, which is a moral failing or a series of bad choices. But actually the disease has a real root in science and you know, a real brain disorder that makes these choices more and more difficult for a person that is seeking the substance, and Interact, We've been studying the government statistics. And so we know that once a person enters rehab for substance misuse and addiction and they come out after their 30 days, there's an extraordinarily high relapse rate sometimes, often as high as 85% in the first year. So what makes this disease of addiction so doggone difficult to treat? Sandy: (07:17) Well, there's a couple of different factors. The first is that these traditional 30 day programs are really focused 100% on helping a person gets sober, which has to happen obviously for them to recover from addiction. But they teach all of these structures and they just don't hold up in the real world because the stresses that an individual faces away from the treatment program tend to override all of the understanding that the person has gotten in their treatment program where they were isolated from stresses of day to day functioning. Not to mention temptation for addiction. So, you know, there's that, there's the excessive focus on just plugging them into these structures that we hope will be helpful, such as 12 step that which can be helpful, but for some people isn't theirs. But bigger than that, I think there's a huge miss of the brain-based piece, which relates to the mental health issues that underneath addiction is suffering underneath that are mental health issues. And associated with all of that is the way that events, that one experiences in one's life impacts their brain. So stressful events, overwhelming events, traumatic events impact our brains. And then that sets us up for that physiological brain-based response to addiction that I already mentioned. So our brain gets into this place of activation from stress, from trauma, from difficult things. And then the substances have more of an effect. And so without addressing that underlying brain-based self-regulation piece, people leave treatment programs committed to sobriety. But the environment happens, life happens, stress happens, our brain gets into a dysregulated state, it gets more activated, it gets more stressed essentially. And then it becomes more and more difficult to simply not use by going to meetings and doing all the other things that are taught in these 12 step based programs. Carolyn: (09:20) You know? So for my own personal experience with my daughter, she would go to a treatment program for 30 days. She would get clean and sober look great, but then come out and struggle. And for a lot of the reasons that you meant, you mentioned that it also seems to move that a lot of treatment revolves around looking at this as an acute disease. So after 30 days you're, you know, you're much better and not really the chronic disease that it is. You want to talk a little bit about, why addiction is a lifetime worth of management versus 30 days in rehab? Sandy: (10:00) Well, it's because that once your brain, I mean, so there's so many different levels to that question. That's a really difficult question to answer. But I mean, at a neuroscientific level, once your brain gets hardwired into, you know, that this substance, there's literally neural pathways that are built in the brain that like this substance is the thing that makes you feel better. And so when that gets activated, that really takes over and becomes so preoccupying in a distorted way. People don't realize that. But beyond that, there's an inner part that, you know, there's an interpersonal factor. So most of the stressors and traumas and overwhelming events that we experience in our modern day life. You know, there's like events like car accidents and you know, difficult things, but it's a lot interpersonal, this family stuff or it's rejection or it's lost. It's, you know, getting bullied by peers. It's getting kicked out of the group. It's, you know, failing to make the soccer team. All of these things are really difficult, immense to navigate in adolescence. And they have something to do with deep belonging and struggles with interpersonal relationship, which set up relationships to be the thing that triggers people into getting overwhelmed and they're getting activated. And when we get activated and we get overwhelmed, our thinking brain literally goes offline. We know this also from neuroscience, that stress, that activation leads us to be unable to use our good thinking skills, which is don't go to the bar, don't pick up. That's a really bad idea. Go to a meeting, talk to your sponsor. That all requires your ability to kind of think your way through and make it happen. But what we know is when our brains get activated, I refer to as getting "out of the zone" that thinking brain goes offline and then often all of those things go out the window. So one of the missing links in treatment is that people have these relationships that are safe and kind of contrived essentially in a treatment program. And then we go out into the real world and relationships are hard and we're not teaching people how to develop and maintain and stay in and feel safe in relationship or choose people that they can do that with wisely. So there's all of these different kind of things that are essentially stacked against the addict ability to recover because we're missing some of those components in the treatment programs and relationships skills and self regulation skills and managing stressors of life skills like that's inherent. That's that is the whole life. And when you don't know how to manage those things and keep yourself regulated and keep stress from overwhelming, you, the capacity to really think through and keep using all the good coping skills that we learned in treatment becomes really diminished at times of heightened stress or activation. Does that make sense? Carolyn: (13:08) Yeah, that makes total sense. And you know, you and I worked together at Phoenix outdoor and that program focused on adolescents, 13 to 17 years old. So all those skillsets of regulation, making good choices, that help keep you healthy are, are lots more difficult for an adolescent because they just aren't mature enough yet. So, you know, at Phoenix outdoor, we not only work with a number of adolescents, but we had a very robust family support program, so we had the opportunity to talk with and engage with lots and lots of parents. And so based on your experience in the program, how aware do you think parents are, and understanding the extent to which their kids who were coming into our program were struggling with the diseases still? Do you think they, they understood it, knew it or we're just not educated? Sandy: (14:11) I mean, I think that hardly any of them understood or knew very little about it, especially at the adolescent level. I mean there's so many different cultural lenses through which we view substance use and some, you know, subcultural groups like using drugs and alcohol and adolescence is considered normal and it's just, it's almost considered a rite of passage in other groups. You know, it's so far from parents own worldview or their own lens or their own experiences, adolescents that they literally don't even see it when it's right in front of their face. And that's not their fault. It's because they're not watching for it. And then kind of all of that really culminates in parents really not knowing when, you know, quote unquote experimentation has become really problematic, either because they're, their child is hiding it so well or they're not being alerted by the schools or anywhere else, or they're just not conditioned to see it as a problem. But all of that, it's just parents are very uneducated about how serious that can get, how rapidly it can progress. And essentially more than that, like how much addiction really takes hold of a person. And I think that's the part that people just don't get, is that like intense preoccupation and how it drives somebody into their own world to where it seems like a completely reasonable thing to deal from parents or you know, do things that are extraordinarily hurtful to the people who care about them in order to get at the drugs or the alcohol that they're looking at. And I think that's the part that people don't get. you know, and then they start just trying to punish and shame the child and essentially that just contributes further to the problem. So by the time we get here, it's way more difficult to address the issues than it is if we'd, if parents were more educated and saw some of those more early warning signs. Carolyn: (16:14) Sandy, as you know, from knowing me, that parallels my own personal experience. my daughter started using substances beginning with alcohol, then cascading into drugs at age 14. And I was completely uneducated about the risk that was out there. I had no idea about how much trouble that she was in at that point. so I appreciate and understand that my own experience paralleled, that of the clients that we worked with. So I've thought about this a lot, especially given the fact that my daughter is no longer with us. But if you could have a conversation with those parents when their kids are not in our program, but they were much younger, what warning signs should they pay attention to that their child might be at higher risk of developing this disease? What would you say to somebody who's kids eight, not 18. Sandy: (17:22) The first thing is look at your family history. So there is undeniable research that families who for whom addiction runs in the family, whether that'd be alcoholism or drug addiction or just problematic substance use or heavy substance use that that runs in the family. If you can look back and the parents and the grandparents and the aunts and the uncles and going back, the more that there is, the more at risk your child is. And so that that simple fact alone should be informing parents view from minute one. If you have a strong family history of addiction or problematic substance use, then it's really important to begin really early taking active steps to keep your child from ever using. The second piece of that is that age of first use is strongly associated with addiction. So kids who start using earlier are more likely to become addicted. So if you have on 11 year old who's out experimenting with marijuana, this is not quote unquote normal behavior. I mean it is in some circles and it is among some groups, but this is not healthy. And so it's really important to come down really hard on that. And by that I mean, I don't mean like punitive and horrible. I just mean like take that as a tremendous risk factor. And if you've got both of those things, age, early, age of first use and a strong family history, then you're headed for trouble. Or you could be your, your percentages are much higher risk to looking at those factors. The next one is, Carolyn: (19:07) Let me interrupt you because I want to explore that one thing a second. So my daughter was 14. So age of early use would definitely apply to her. And also from our research we understand that use has become pervasive in middle school. So kids are starting to use much, much younger than that. Talk a little bit about the developing brain and when it really gets developed and what happens when you interrupt that development with substances. I think people need to understand why early use well is critical, Sandy: (19:45) Right. So in adolescence, essentially our brains become scrambled. So they did, they've kind of, associated adolescence with like around the age of three when you're born and you did start to develop neural structures and then kind of early on in childhood, those things sort of reorganize and restructure themselves. And kids go through periods where they cannot control their impulses is essentially the toddler years. And they've associated adolescence with that, that the brain kind of organizes itself through early childhood and in adolescence it all kind of splits apart and then restructures itself again. And so adolescents are extremely prone to problems with impulse control. They have difficult time regulating their emotions cause at the same time they're also separating from parents. That's part of their job is to create an identity separate from parents and other caregivers in school and things such as that. So all of this creates a perfect for drugs and alcohol to come in while the brain is restructuring itself, enter drugs and alcohol and suddenly pathways that are associated with wanting that substance are formed. So there's like literally neuropathways that create this connection to craving drugs and alcohol. At the same time. This is a really critical time for adolescents to be learning how to have healthy, increasingly more mature, connected, intimate relationships with people other than family members. Learn how to manage their emotions, learn how to make good, healthy decisions, learn how to control their impulses. Like, yeah, well, yeah, sure you want to drive your car a hundred miles down the highway cause it seems fun, but not a good idea. So you're not going to do it. But so all of these different things create this perfect storm where drugs and alcohol not only create neural pathways and again those with a history of addiction and their family are more versed for this. But then drugs and alcohol curb the normal development of some of these essential skills that set adolescents and young adults up to move into healthy adulthood where they can control their impulses, make good decisions, choose things that are healthy for them, recognize risk, what isn't, isn't safe for them to do what is or isn't good idea. And ultimately it really impacts the brain's overall developmental process. Now, brain doesn't fully develop until age of 25. We know that the frontal and prefrontal cortex, which is the thinking brain, is not fully developed until age 25. And so we add that into the mix and adolescence and into young adulthood and it really negatively impacts that part. And that part is critical for an independent, well-functioning, successful adult who's able to initiate decisions, engage in a career, raise a family, and have good, healthy relationships. Carolyn: (22:53) So, you've mentioned this a couple of times in our conversation about, kids that are not in their zone. And I want to go back to, the focus that we talked about, which is, you know, the conversation we might have with mom and dad, much earlier, to point out what, who's at risk. So let's talk a little bit about the overly emotional child who's constantly blowing hot and cold. Who just can't seem to stay in the zone where they're not exploding or overreacting. How much should we as parents be worried when we have a child like that, as a potential risk factor for some that someone that might misuse substance and develop addiction. Talk about kids not staying in their zone? Sandy: (23:45) That's a great question. So, I was actually gonna say that as kind of the third risk factor for parents to watch for, which is kids who can't emotionally regulate, and emotionally regulate means, you know, a child who just gets overwhelmed by their emotions and it can start when they're young with good emotions. Like it doesn't have to be all quote unquote bad or difficult emotions. But when you see a child who gets overrun with excitement or overrun with anger or overrun with anxiety, and they can't shift out of it and it skews their perceptions of things and they just get wrapped up in it, or when they get upset, they just lose control of themselves. Like they yell and they scream or they throw things and they just have an extraordinarily difficult time calming down. Like that is high, high risk for addiction right there. And the reason is is because enter drugs and alcohol and suddenly you can calm down, enter drugs and alcohol and suddenly that overwhelming anxiety that you're experiencing is no longer an issue. And you can go out into the world and talk to people and become really upset or mad, enter drugs and alcohol and suddenly you can calm that feeling. So these overwhelming feelings, enter drugs and alcohol and they become like seemingly the perfect tool. So not only that, like, Oh wow, does that ever feel amazing? But also then when you begin to use that instead of learning healthy, mature skills to regulate your emotions, which we call getting back into the zone, right? Then we don't, we miss the opportunity to learn the skills. And so the drugs and alcohol become increasingly more important for that. All of that then relates to the development of the brain, right? That frontal and prefrontal cortex, which is required to do that. So those three things all are, are happening at the same time. And it starts with a child who struggles with regulating their emotions in early childhood. And I'm talking again early childhood can be toddlerhood all the way up to like age eight, nine, 10. I have a nine year old right now who really struggles when he gets mad. All those things happen. And I know that that puts him at high risk and that's something that I need to monitor. So I need to teach him those skills now so that he doesn't need drugs and alcohol as much later to help him with it. Carolyn: (26:13) Yes. I think that's an excellent point. You know, that if you've got a child that's struggling with that, just be on higher alert. The other thing that I know you and I mutually experienced when we've worked with adolescents at Phoenix outdoor, we observed that a large percentage of them have problems keeping up with their schoolwork. How might those kids that struggle with learning differences be at higher risk. Why, might they, why do we have such a large percentage that had learning issues in our program that focused on substance misuse? Sandy: (26:54) Well, I mean, there's a lot of different factors to that too. There's kind of the internal experience of never quite feeling like you fit in, always struggling, always falling behind. So, you know, substances become a way to manage that, those self esteem issues. There's also the fact that many types of learning issues, especially, you know, ADHD being one of them also negatively impact the capacity to self-regulate. So it, it again relates to the frontal part of their brain that, you know, great brain in the front, the frontal cortex is required to regulate emotions. So when you have learning differences of some sorts, that part becomes even more impaired. Putting one at higher risk for the things that I just mentioned. And then there's the social aspects of it that, you know, using drugs and alcohol in adolescents and young adulthood is essentially a way to be cool. The way to get attention. It's a way to find, you know, social power and social capital, in a world in which maybe you feel like you're being left behind. And so that classic, you know, kid who like hangs on the outskirts and lures the other kids over to get attention and look at me, I looked at, I'm so cool, I got drugs. You should hang out with me. Isn't this fun? You know, that kind of thing becomes extraordinarily compelling for a child who's always felt like they're on the outskirts, not to mention the drugs and alcohol might help them figure out like, Oh, look at me, I can, you know, have a few drinks and be social. So helping to manage all the social anxiety. So certainly that puts kids also at higher risk for a variety, for a variety of different reasons. So it's also something to begin to notice in elementary school if your child is having learning differences, just taking those extra steps to know that they're at higher risk. So we got to watch more carefully and be more proactive from a prevention perspective. Carolyn: (28:49) You know, I think it also falls that a kid can fall in both ends of the spectrum. They can either have learning differences, so they might get made fun of because they can't keep up. But then you take the kid on the opposite end of the spectrum that's super smart and they may be socially awkward as well, so they get bullied. You know, so I think that we, we as parents need to look at both ends of the spectrum as well. So, another risk factor that we're aware of and I know that we've talked about before, are something that we call adverse childhood experiences. So, you know, often times society worries most about the, the kid whose home life is in disarray there they've suffered abuse, violence, they live on the other side of the tracks. Their environment is really chaotic, but I think you and I both learned that children can experience other issues that they consider to be difficult or adverse that they have a hard time responding to. So I'll take my own situation with Laura. The year that she started using, she entered high school for the first time, she changed her sport from soccer to rowing. We moved to a new neighborhood and I got married, you know, so like you talk about like all these changes and, and, her balls. So talk a little bit about the impact of these adverse or negative childhood experiences as it relates to elevating, a kid's risk. What the parents need to know. Sandy: (30:38) Well, it's because of the way that it impacts our brains. Again, I mean it all comes down to brains and how addiction is a brain based disease. And so anything that's going to impact our brains can be ultimately associated with higher risk for addiction. And so what we now know is that, you know, they refer to it as trauma or adverse childhood events, ACEs, that the higher the, you know, the more of those that you have more impacts your brain development, which I can say more about but, it's important to recognize that these are, these events are anything that overwhelms a child's ability to cope or anything at all in a child's life that overwhelms their sense of safety and security and predictability in their world. And so why that impacts our brains is because then that activates the part of our brain that is 100% focused on keeping us alive. And it sets us into survival mode, which is a much more reactive mode, which is really adaptive when we live in the woods and you've got bears and tigers working about that are ready to eat you. So you can react really fast. But it's not really adaptive in a world in which there aren't really predators and where the predators are essentially other people, their family members or their people at school or their teachers. And that's just a brain-based. Again, that's not that really is that not that divorcing parents are really tigers, it's just that that sets up the, the survival part of the child's brain. And when the survival part of the brain is in charge, it's really reactive. We're scanning the world for threat. And again, it takes that thinking brain offline or it diminishes its functioning. So the more of these events that we experience more activated, our nervous system is in readiness to fight tigers or to run from tigers or to freeze in the face of tigers. And that puts us in a really reactive state, which in that reactive state is the exact opposite of what kids need to be able to learn, to be able to engage in healthy relationships, to learn math, to plan, and ultimately to control their impulses and to control their emotions because it impacts the thinking part of the brain. The thinking part of the brand new, slow, the survival part of the brain moves fast. When a child experiences overwhelming events, the survival brain is in charge. And so it diminished the capacity for the child to develop the ability to self regulate. And that ability to self regulate means emotions and behaviors. And that has everything to do with whether or not they're going to be able to choose not to use drugs or alcohol or to be able to regulate their use if they do choose to use. Carolyn: (33:17) So one of the things that I know for sure with parents of, elementary school kids is that they don't feel like they should focus on a disease that their children may never get. But, the reality based on government research is that we know one in 10 adolescents will become addicted before they even leave high school. And now we've explored a lot of the reasons why you focused your conversation on the genetic link and how critical that is. It's the same as if somebody has a genetic link to diabetes. There's a much higher chance that, a child will develop diabetes in their lifetime. You talked about emotional regulation and the importance of, watching a kid more closely if he's becomes dysregulated. We've talked about learning differences, kids that can't keep up or that are overly intelligent, being different and, and struggling to fit in. And we've talked about these adverse childhood experiences that, the child has a fight or flight response to that really causes their brain to go into overload. So I'm sure people listening to this, if their mom and dad or grandparents were probably freaked out at this point, now that we've gone through that. but let's talk about what mom and dad should be doing to lower the risk. So if they could only do three things to lower the risk that their child will be one of those statistics, what advice would you give them? What are the top three things they ought to be thinking about? Sandy: (35:07) That's a really good question. I mean I would really focus on that emotion regulation piece. And if you don't know what that means, right? That means you can look up mindfulness for kids, mindfulness in schools, and it's not all mindfulness. I talk about it as kind of trauma and resilience or self regulation skills, but mindfulness is an easy entry point to that. Teach your kids skills, how to regulate their emotions, teach them how to calm down, teach them to recognize when they're out of their zone and teach them ways to get back in their zone. Related to that, if you can, you don't get your schools on board with that. That's a really critical piece is to begin. And more and more schools are doing it. They're kind of recognizing that it falls under the umbrella of trauma informed care, but it's really a preventative tool. So get involved in, in ways with communities, with teachers in ways that your kids learn that and begin to just language that at school. Like normalize that. Like, Oh wow, you're having a hard time regulating your anger. How do we help you get back in your zone? Those kinds of things are so, so critical. the second is really educating your child and yourself. Like recognize what those early warning signs are, what is or is not normal and start talking to your kids about that early. Like one of the things that my friend says that her dad always said to her is that "some things are too good and you must never do them." And I think that's valid, right? Like, you know, teach kids about addiction, but this is a thing and let's not pretend it's not happening. Because even if it doesn't happen to your child's, certainly they're going to know somebody for whom it does. And you know, just begin to have an open dialogue and do your best to stay in relationship with your child. Spend time with them, keep those lines of communication open. And as part of that really monitor technology use, which is a whole separate conversation, but I'm convinced that too much technology use is a gateway drug and three, assess your risk factors like look at your own family history, look at your child. Does they, do they struggle with emotion regulation? are they at higher risk? Do they have a community of kids that they connect with that they feel safe and supported and valued and understood and if not, start early and try to help them find that. And then last just take active strides to really look for the places where they might actually be able to use and keep your eyes on it, right? Like, like you know, maybe consider drug testing early, but certainly supervise them very closely. Do not hesitate to monitor their phones. Look, listen, look at their calls, look at their texts, find out where they are on social media, pay attention and just tell your child that that's why you're doing it. It's my job as a parent to keep you safe. There's a lot of things out there that are not safe for you. Drugs and alcohol is a big one. And I'm going to watch you really, really closely while you learn the skills to be able to work through this to yourself. But until then, I'm going to step in and help you be able to make good decisions, because this could kill you and I'm not willing to let that happen. So really taking those kinds of steps from an early age, not from an alarmist perspective, but from a prevention perspective. And if you normalize it when they're in elementary school this is what we're doing to protect you for the future, then it's not so hard to bring it in later when you might get more pushback cause you're already doing it. Carolyn: (38:53) So, in recap, the things that parents ought to be doing proactively are teaching their kids to, be able to emotionally regulate themselves, stay in their zone. I'm getting connected to schools and communities so that you know what's going on and that you're having conversations, educate yourself as parents, understand the disease, understand the risk factors and find an age appropriate way to talk to your children early so that they are educated and not scared, but they're educated. Monitor their technology, monitor the kids. Consider drug testing. I don't think there's anything wrong with it, but you know, as parents, your job is to keep them safe and you should do all those things. I'm going to add to that, list Sandy and you can comment on it. My personal advice, and this is after struggling with my daughter for 15 years would be as follows, adopt the attitude that it can happen to you. We grew up in the middle class neighborhood, we had great neighbors. My kid was girl scout, et cetera. You would never look at her and think that she's at risk. So I think we all need to adopt the attitude, no matter what we see in elementary school. It can happen to your kid. And once it does, it makes life a lot more difficult. The second thing I would advise parents would be to not be ashamed. it is no reflection on your parenting skills. It has no reflection on your moral failing if you have a child that develops the disease. So being transparent about it, asking for help, connecting with others that have expertise I think is critical, and not blaming yourself, for what's happening to your child. The third thing I would advise parents, and you mentioned it, but I want to bring it up again, which is when when your kids are actively seeking substances, they will do things that will terribly hurt your feelings. They will steal from you, be mean to you, try and misdirect you. And it's really not a reflection of how much they do or don't love you. It's just a part of the disease and you have to understand that they'll do things that don't make sense to you. But it is not personal, it's just a function of the disease. So if you could stand to give parents any last words of advice before we wrap up, what would you tell them? What would be your best piece of advice? Sandy: ( 41:33) Intervene earlier instead of later. If you have a child that you can see as high risk and their risk is emotion regulation or anxiety, get them into therapy in elementary school there's no stigma, there's no problem work to create the structures before they ever use. And if they start using early intervene actively, quickly. So get them into therapy. Don't hesitate to put them in a treatment program as an adolescence if they need it. Wilderness therapy often also referred to as outdoor behavioral healthcare can be super effective for adolescents, but the earlier we intervene, the better it is. Don't hesitate to take, to really respond really, really strongly. And again, as you're, if you, your assessment of your risk factors goes up, then the degree to which sort of the magnitude of your response early on should also go up. Like don't wait until they're using heroin. You know, by that time the recovery is so much more difficult, take and take active strides to keep them from using. The longer that they can go without using, the more their brains will be developed. So, so start early, respond, you know, strongly get the structures in place to support them both avoiding using and that they have a place to go if they do use. And really beyond that, the biggest thing that's that I think is hard about recovery is for people, adolescents, adults, all of us to, to find community. And that's, I think one of the biggest things that I didn't mention that drives people back to relapse. So create community for your kids that isn't about technology. Help them find friends, help them find groups, socialize with other parents who share your values so that they have a place to land where they feel supported and they feel safe. And I think that that is hugely important and start that early. Carolyn: (43:46) So Sandy, very good conversation. I thank you so much for your insight and wisdom. Hopefully, this will be shared around with parents, with grandparents and others that want to know more about the disease that need to understand who's at risk and ways to protect them. So this is Carolyn Bradfield and Dr. Sandy Newes with Interact Lifeline Studios. We thank you for your time and attention and we will end the podcast. Thank you so much, Sandy. Sandy: (44:18) Thank you for having me, Carolyn. I appreciate it. You're certainly welcome. Outro: Interact lifeline here to make a difference in how people manage the disease of addiction, reducing the right of relapse and improving the recovery process. We offer treatment and collegiate recovery programs, a technology service to keep families connected to treatment, to support communities and to family. This is Carolyn Bradfield and you've been listening to our Audio Journal from Interact Lifeline.

Podcast

Make connections to help support you as you battle addiction If you are struggling with addiction or have an addict in your family, going it alone is never a good idea.  I was fortunate in many ways that when my 14-year old daughter began her struggle, I had close friends that were there for me who had watched Laura grow up and knew I needed help.  And people were there for me throughout the 15 years we battled the disease, and in the end when she overdosed and died. You need help and support around you to give you perspective, a sanity check, relief and acceptance and that comes by finding a community that you can connect to.  Communities help us feel connected and a part of something, but they also have strong benefits when it comes to helping you as you battle the disease of addiction for yourself or for a loved one. Communities allow us to benefit from the lessons others have learned so we don’t have to learn from our own mistakes.  Communities can inspire us when we watch members achieve things that go right in their lives.  Communities give us contacts we can call on when we need help.  Knowing others that are going through the same things we are, learning from them and getting their support is a very important gift that you can give yourself. Our company, InterAct LifeLine, supports collegiate recovery communities, organized groups for people in recovery on college campuses.  The gift of belonging to those communities as a student is a higher graduation rate, a higher GPA, a much lower return to substance misuse and frankly, friends you keep your entire life. For those struggling with addiction, finding communities of sober, like-minded people promotes healthy social interaction replacing the circle of people that misused substances with others that you can connect with without worrying about being around drugs or alcohol.  Communities provide support when counseling is not available, and its people are often just a phone call away. But if you are a family member that is helping a loved one fight addiction, finding communities of other family members may not be as obvious as it is for the person who is finding community in addiction support groups.  Here are a few ideas for where to go find the gift of community. Connect to online support groups. Social media can be a powerful tool to find others that are going through the same challenges you are, share your thoughts without judgment, and find strategies that help you move forward.  For me, I belong to several Facebook groups focused on loss of a loved one from overdose.  The stories I read are sad, but also reminders of how many of us are turning grief into purpose trying to make a difference in the lives of others.  All it takes on Facebook is to access groups, enter keywords to find groupa that you relate to the most and ask to join. Find a support community in Al-Anon or other organizations.  Most of us have heard of Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, AA and NA, but did you know that the same organization has support groups for families who have a loved one battling addiction?  It’s called Al-Anon that uses the same 12-step philosophy to help families heal.  If 12-Step is not your thing, then there are many other ways to connect to family support groups.  If you just google “family support groups for addiction” you will get links to a number of support communities and likely find those who have meetings in your area. Find a non-profit focused group on family support.  As I mentioned earlier, I lost a daughter to overdose and found a non-profit called Compassionate Friends that focuses on helping families cope with loss.  SAMSHA, a government organization focused on substance abuse and mental health, has a national hotline that can connect families to support organizations.  (1-800-662-HELP).   There is Parents of Addicted Loved Ones or PAL for short with a national directory of meetings in your area which have both an educational component and time for sharing.  The list goes on and on, but these non-profits are here to help, connect you to others who are going through the same issue, and are easily found online. And don’t forget about the support group you already know, your family and friends.  The people closest to you may not be fully aware of how you struggle, so they often seem to sit on the sidelines until you ask them to jump in.  They may not be able to empathize at the level you would like them to because it’s hard to understand unless you have experienced coping with an addicted loved one, so it’s up to you to paint a picture of how your life has changed and what you struggle with. And it’s also important that you are clear about the type of help you need.  Do you just need a friendly ear to air out your issues?  Are you asking for them to weigh in on what they think you should do?  Do you need a partner to help you solve a problem?  Or do you just need a break to focus on something that’s fun and normal? Takeaways Often when we struggle with addiction, it seems right to hide what is going on because we are ashamed, shy about sharing our struggles, and don’t believe we can find people to understand and support us.  However, this thought process is counterproductive to helping you manage through what is arguably one of the most difficult challenges you will face.  The gift of community is powerful, keeps you centered, helps you with strategies and most importantly, reminds you that you are not the only one struggling.  Communities reinforce the fact that you   are not alone in this fight.

Podcast

How to keep yourself healthy, centered, balanced & connected when you struggle with an addicted loved one This will be my second Christmas without my daughter Laura who struggled for 15 years with addiction but lost her life to overdose on December 21, 2017, right before the holidays. In the two years since her death, I’ve taken care of myself in some ways, but not in others.   Battling addiction with a loved one or battling it as an addict takes a toll on you personally. There is the stress of not knowing what is going to happen next, the lack of sleep when you stay up through the night hoping to hear the door open and your loved one walk in, the constant anxiety.  If you don’t care for yourself, then your health and well-being will suffer. Self-care is complex, but it’s a gift that you should try and give yourself.  Don’t think of it as something selfish, but rather something necessary to stay strong.  Here are some thoughts for all of us who need to do more to care for ourselves with the gift of self-care. Set healthy boundaries.  When you are surrounding by addiction, you have to set physical, emotional and mental limits so that you avoid being manipulated, used or violated by the addicts in your life. Boundaries are simply guidelines that you express to others so that they know how you want to be treated and what happens when they cross those boundaries.  In my relationship with my daughter, some of the boundaries I set included what I needed her to contribute to the house while she was living there, how I needed to be communicated with respectfully, and the rules around any type of substance use around me or in my home. Take care of your body.  For me, taking care of my body was not on my “to do” list after my daughter died.  As a result, I gained weight, ate poorly, got very little sleep and just overall felt physically weak.  When you are fighting addiction yourself or on behalf of a loved one, you have to take care of your body.  Start by adding a healthy dose of exercise to your routine.  You don’t have to do cross-fit or run a marathon, but you can start by simply walking 30 minutes a day. Exercise releases those endorphins that make you feel better, relieves stress, and helps you connect with others if you engage in sports activities. Because sleep affects our mood, helps us keep a healthy weight and reduces stress, trying to keep a regular sleep pattern is important.  Start by recognizing what your sleep patterns are and where they are off balance.  Then change your routine to eat earlier, not watch TV as your go to sleep routine, and keep your room cool and quiet. And finally, eating healthy has some very strong benefits.  If you are in recovery, then don’t replace drug use with a new bad habit of eating poorly like adding processed foods or sugars.  A good diet improves your mood and is a cornerstone of selfcare. Use mindfulness to reduce stress and increase a feeling of well-being.  Mindfulness is the practice of purposely focusing your attention on the present moment and accepting it without judgment. Being mindful makes it easier to appreciate the pleasures in life as they occur, helps you become fully engaged in activities, and creates a capacity to deal with the adverse events that has been coming your way.  And if you are struggling with addiction, there are quite a few zingers that you struggle with.   People who practice mindfulness find that they are less likely to obsess about what may happen to them in the future or have regrets over the past.  Mindfulness helps people become less preoccupied with success or concern themselves on how others might judge them.  There are many ways to practice mindfulness, but most often this is done with meditation, and finding time to sit quietly, let your thoughts come without judging them, and focusing on relaxed breathing. Self-care means finding balance in your life. When you are struggling, it’s very tempting to be single threaded on fighting the disease itself and start to drop things that you found enjoyment in.  Your life can quickly get out of balance. Balance involves doing the things you have to do but making sure to not drop the things that you like to do.   And watch out for areas where you might be overdoing it.  For a time, my daughter went to multiple AA meetings every single day, but then failed to do other things that kept her healthy like exercising or just connecting with friends. Practice social selfcare. It’s very easy to withdraw when you are suffering.  You may not want to let others in and have to explain your struggles to them but letting others in is an important part of self-care.  There are a number of support groups where you will find others that are experiencing some of the same issues with addiction that you are.  There are family members and friends willing to support you if they know what kind of help or understanding you need.  You may want to talk to a counselor or therapist so you can process your feelings by talking about them out loud.  Self-care involves finding and nurturing connections so that you don’t go it alone. Remember that being an addict or having one in your family takes a toll on your most valued relationships, so it’s important to keep in contact with them, be honest about your struggles and get support. And don’t forget about practical self-care.  Anxiety comes from things that we feel are out of control, so look around you and see what might look like it’s within your control that you can do something about.  If your house is a mess, then bring order to the chaos by cleaning it up.  Go through your clothes and stuff and take a lesson from Marie Kondo and if your stuff doesn’t give you joy, then find a way to rehome it.  When my daughter died, we sold our 5,000 square foot home and moved to something smaller requiring me to purge all of those things that I had stuffed away that I never used.  Getting control of the clutter and getting rid of it was a form of practical self-care. Takeaways Self-care is an integral part of healing yourself and making well-being a priority.  To give yourself that gift, you need to let people know how you want to be treated, focus on your physical well-being, use mindfulness to keep yourself centered, find balance in your life, and staying connected to others.  Self-care also means keeping our environment stress free, clutter free and organized.  Self-care is a gift that you can give yourself that brings balanced to a life that addiction has thrown out of balance.

Podcast

One of the bests gifts to give yourself during the holidays, forgiveness This will be my second Christmas without my daughter Laura who struggled for 15 years with addiction but lost her life to overdose on December 21, 2017, right before the holidays. But even when Laura was with us, holidays were often stressful because I never knew what kind of tension and drama she might create for the family. It’s so easy to sit back during the holidays and beat yourself up. Your friends are all having a wonderful Christmas dinner, opening their gifts, and connecting with family. Your family may have been turned upside down, so you reflect on how you managed to get yourself in this mess. You look at what you did or didn’t do to create such a dysfunctional family, holiday or in my case lose a loved one. So now it’s time to open up the gift of forgiveness. It’s not your fault. I repeat, it’s not your fault. Your loved one had a genetic predisposition to develop the disease of addiction because the genes that trigger it run in families. Ten people could go to a party, have a drink and not feel uncontrollably compelled to keep going. But that 1 person in 10 that is genetically pre-disposed will have their brain’s reward center triggered to need more of the substance that caused their dopamine production to go wild. It’s not your fault that those genes ran in your family just as it’s not your fault if you have diabetes in your genes. Your loved one didn’t develop the disease because of you. Don’t blame yourself because of your parenting. Parenting is hard enough no matter what someone tells you. Everyone makes mistakes and you’ve likely made more than a few when it comes to managing an adolescent that become oppositional, then defiant, then a drug user and then an addict. Trust me that I was one of those parents with my daughter Laura. But you need to give yourself a break. It’s hard to make the best decisions when you are in the middle of a war and under siege. Addiction may have come on quickly not giving you the time to be fully informed and ready. Everyone makes mistakes, even parents with those picture-perfect kids. It’s time to forgive yourself for any parenting missteps during this crisis. Forgive those people around you. You are going to be surprised at the friends, family and co-workers who just didn’t understand the depth of your struggles. You may feel their scrutiny and disapproval and find them distancing themselves from you. Although that may seem terrible, it’s perfectly understandable that they don’t really understand because nobody can unless they have walked in your shoes. When I first sent my daughter Laura to wilderness therapy treatment, I chose a New Year’s Eve party to announce my decision to my friends, some of which knew about our struggles and others did not. I was greeted with, “How could you?” and “Why didn’t you try other things first?”. At first, I was insulted and horrified that they just didn’t get it because that was one of the hardest decisions of my life. But then on reflection, I began to understand why they didn’t get it. They had never had an experience like this. I decided to forgive those people and years later shared with them how their comments did me a favor to enlighten me about how to better manage my conversations with others when it came to my daughter and help others do the same. And finally, forgive the addict you love. My daughter did some terrible things in the throes of her disease. She would go months without answering my calls or texts making me fear if she was safe. She would attack me verbally when I pressed her about her behavior. She lied to me to get me to do the things that she needed so she could keep using drugs. Although I was angry with her, fortunately, I let that go before she overdosed and died. In her final weeks, I shared with her that we were both adults and had the right to make adult decisions, even though we were in disagreement about what those decisions were. Addicts can be the most frustrating, unlovable, and difficult people to be around. But in the light of the brain disorder they have, it’s important to direct your anger and frustration where it belongs most, at the disease itself. It’s not to say that you should roll over and just let any behavior go. When your loved one crosses boundaries and treat you disrespectfully, you should develop language that goes something like this: I have a problem that I need your help with.When you do this, this is how it makes me feel.In the future, I would appreciate it if you could change what you do.Can I get your help on this? Takeaways Forgiveness is a difficult thing, but powerfully healing. Forgive yourself first because addiction is a complex disease to understand and it’s not something that you caused. Forgive yourself for mistakes you make along the way in trying to help your loved one. Forgive others around you who haven’t walked in your shoes and may not understand. And most importantly, forgive your loved one. They wouldn’t have chosen to live such a difficult life and you never know when your next encounter with them might be your last.

Podcast

The holidays can be a dreaded time of the year if someone you love is suffering or has lost their battle with the disease of addiction.  This will be my second Christmas without my daughter Laura who struggled for 15 years with addiction but lost her life to overdose on December 21, 2017, right before the holidays.  It’s hard to think about gift giving during this time of year, because the holidays may be filled with regret, grief, or stress.   This Audio Journal focuses on gifts, not for others on your list, but those that you should give to yourself.  Today’s episode is devoted to the gift of knowledge. I’ve talked to countless parents and family members who are struggling to make sense of their loved one’s substance misuse, crazy behavior, and personality change.  We often mistake addiction as a moral failing or a series of bad choices, failing to recognize that addiction is a chronic complex brain disease.  Now, let’s figure out how to unwrap the gift of knowledge so you are more prepared to deal with it. Start with understanding the science behind addiction.  Addiction is a brain disease and there is a scientific underpinning about how it manifests itself and progresses.  Let me take another brain disease that millions of us know about as an analogy, Alzheimer’s. There is a scientific and physical reason that people’s memories disappear.  It has to do with plaque coating the transmitters in the brain that allow one to process and act on information.   Once there is enough plaque build-up, signals can’t get through and memory fails.  People that have Alzheimer’s are not being difficult or frustrating’ their brain is misfiring. The human brain is wired to reward us when we do something pleasurable. Exercising, eating, and other pleasurable behaviors directly linked to our health and survival trigger the release of a neurotransmitter called dopamine that makes us feel good and encourages us to keep doing what we’re doing.  But the brain can also be rewired in harmful ways when it’s exposed to drugs. When someone takes a drug, their brain releases extreme amounts of dopamine causing the brain to overreact, reducing dopamine production in an attempt to normalize these sudden, sky-high levels the drugs have created. And this is how the cycle of addiction begins because the individual will seek those substances to get that dopamine rush. So that’s part of the science of addiction.  It’s the brain’s rewiring to overproduce dopamine levels that rise and crash, causing the person to seek more of the substance to level themselves out.  You next level of knowledge should be around the condition itself.  Addiction is not an acute disease that can be treated quickly and cured.  It’s a chronic condition that will last a lifetime and requires on-going maintenance and management.  When you treat diabetes, you can’t take insulin just once, feel better right away, then stop. You have to manage yourself with medication, diet and lifestyle change over a lifetime.  The same is true of addiction. People go to rehab to treat the acute symptoms and get stabilized.  They come out looking healthy, but it’s a mistake to believe that because their acute symptoms have been dealt with the person is cured.   Without the proper long-term plan, the chances are 85% that they will return to substance misuse in less than a year following rehab.  It’s important to know the difference in the characteristics of an acute vs. a chronic disease so you know that you must play the long game. That brings us to the next knowledge gift which is know how to manage the disease long-term.  This is the most complex part of the equation and requires the most knowledge and research.  It’s important that you understand that the recovery and disease management process have many components.  First, there is a need for structure and accountability.  Because addiction has impacted the logic center of the brain, making the smallest decisions on what to do and where to go may be difficult for an addict, so the more help in this area the better. Then, there is a need for connections.  Addicts need to connect with treatment professionals, connect with each other for support, and connect with family.  The more people that are in the equation, the better the recovery process.  Next, there is the need to maintain a healthy lifestyle.  This involves a good diet, exercise, stress reduction, anxiety management and a commitment to health and wellness. For some people, medication is helpful, something we call Medication Assisted Therapy or MAT.  This has to be a careful decision because some medications, as with my daughter Laura who used Suboxone, can be misused and counterproductive to recovery. The bottom line is that having the knowledge of how to manage the disease long-term empowers you to make the right decisions to support yourself or your addicted loved one. And the final gift you need to unwrap is the knowledge of how you fit into the process.  The family’s understanding, support, and role in the recovery process is critical to the long-term health of the person that is addicted.  It starts with understanding that this is a disease, not a moral failing so the addict doesn’t feel more shame and guilt than he or she already does.  It then falls to what you can do to help treat the disease vs make it worse.  If you have a diabetic in your family, you don’t feed them cake.  It’s important to know what you should do and what you should avoid to help keep your loved one healthy.  The first “to do” on the list is to set expectations and boundaries so the person knows what to expect from you.  The next is to understand the warning signs that your loved one is being triggered to return to substance use coupled with an understanding of how to have that conversation and what they are willing to do to let you help them.  There are many more elements that go on this list, so it’s important to understand the “do’s and don’ts” of your role in the recovery process. Takeaways Knowledge is a powerful gift and with the disease of addiction, it’s critical.  You have to understand the science behind the disease, the characteristics of the condition, how to manage it as a chronic disease and your role in keeping the person you love healthy.   It’s said that knowledge is power and with the disease of addiction, empower yourself to understand it so you can manage it on behalf of yourself and your loved ones.

Podcast

The holidays are the most wonderful, but often the most dreadful time of the year if someone you love is suffering from or has lost their battle with the disease of addiction.  This will be my second Christmas without my daughter Laura who struggled for 15 years with addiction but lost her life to overdose on December 21, 2017, right before the holidays.  But even when Laura was with us, holidays were often stressful because I never knew what kind of tension and drama she might create for the family. For those of us who have been through the struggle our perfect holiday gift might be that of peace, tranquility, and for the person who we remembered before they developed the disease to be the one that shows up for the holidays.   For me, my perfect gift would be just one more moment to watch Laura unwrap her gifts, sit by the fire or laugh at the dinner table.  So, knowing that we likely get gifts that are well meaning, but not exactly what we wished for, here are some gifts that you can give yourself for the holidays that can last you throughout the year and hopefully for a lifetime. Give yourself the gift of knowledge.  I’ve talked to countless parents and family members who are struggling to make sense of their loved one’s substance misuse, crazy behavior, and personality change.  Yet, they have failed to research the disease of addiction, understand how it progresses, learn how it changes the brain, and what it takes to treat it.    You would never think to fight cancer without going online, understanding the symptoms and how the disease progresses, checking out treatment options and learning how to beat it.  The same applies with the disease of addiction.  Give yourself the gift of knowledge so you can understand it, have a strategy to respond and know what to do to fight the disease. Open up the gift of forgiveness. It’s not your fault.  I repeat, it’s not your fault.  Because I’m empowered with an understanding of the disease, I don’t blame myself for my daughter’s death or her 15-year struggle.  And I’ve forgiven myself for any wrong decisions I made along the way when we were in the middle of the fight.  Addiction is complex and often the decisions the person afflicted makes are irrational and confusing.   Until that person decides to get healthy and manage the disease, you don’t really have the power to cure it for them.   If a diabetic eats cake, fails to take their insulin and doesn’t follow the doctor’s instructions, do you blame yourself if they get sicker?   The same is true with addiction Unwrap the gift of self-care. It’s super hard battling the disease and believe me the fight takes a toll on you personally.  There is the stress of not knowing what is going to happen next, the lack of sleep when you stay up through the night hoping to hear the door open and your loved one walk in. There’s constant anxiety.  If you don’t care for yourself, then your health and wellbeing will suffer. Self-care is complex, but may involve a health and wellness routine, mindfulness & meditation, counseling, or connecting with friends and doing something fun. Look for the gift of community. Going this alone is never a good idea.  You need help and support around you to give you perspective, a sanity check, relief, and acceptance.  There are many communities you can connect to, but for me, I turned first to my close friends and family who watched Laura grow up, saw how I parented, and didn’t judge my parenting skills.  Then, it was going to a community of other parents who had put their children into treatment and who were going through a shared experience with me.  I relied on Al-Anon to gain perspective on the disease of addiction and our role in the process of healing.  I’m now involved in several Facebook groups where parents share their experiences in losing someone to overdose.  Remember, you are not alone. Takeaway Trust me, that I personally understand how it feels not only to battle addiction with a loved one, but to lose someone when they lose the fight.  But my personal philosophy is that if you don’t understand the disease, forgive yourself for the things you feel you did wrong, care for yourself so you don’t become one part of the collateral damage, and look for help and support  in others, you will have a much harder time coping with the circumstances you now find yourself in. Now, I haven’t always followed my own advice.  When Laura died, I stopped doing the things that were keeping me healthy.  I ate poorly, gained weight, stopped exercising and didn’t manage my grief as well as I could have.  But that is changing, and I’ve given myself the gifts that I just shared with you which is part of my journey to return to health, wellness, and happiness. Keep tuning into the Audio Journal over the holidays, because I am going to give you some practical advice on each of these gifts, how to find them, and how to make sure you unwrap them.

Podcast

This Audio Journal series focuses on what it takes to coach your family through the Opioid Crisis with the right game plan, a playbook, an understanding of your opponent and help from your “assistants” when it’s called for.  This episode will focus on why you need a good staff around you because no game is winnable if you are the only coach calling the plays. Football coaches know that they don’t have all of the answers.  That’s why they rely on their assistants. Nick Saban of Alabama has hired the best assistant coaches, relies on their advice, and lets them take the lead in their area of expertise. Managing your child when he is oppositional, defiant, losing ground at school, and using drugs that can cause overdose at any minute is not something parents should try and manage without help.  There are plenty of good assistants out there to help parents adjust their strategy, send in better plays to protect their children, and know when the game plan that they have is just not working.  This all seems logical, but parents often fail to know the when, the who and the how to ask for help.  Let’s focus on “the when”.  I would seriously doubt that a football coach waits to consult his assistants after the game gets out of hand.  They ask for advice early and often.  But the same is not true of parents when their child is in trouble.  That’s because parents are often ashamed, traumatized or confused.  It’s never a good idea to wait to ask for help.  When you see your child’s grades drop, their behavior change, or just are worried that things are not right, ask for insight, advice, or help right away.  Waiting can have deadly consequences allowing adolescents to keep using drugs, engage in dangerous behaviors and sometimes lose their lives to overdose. And what about your “pre-game strategy”.  You should avail yourself of the help, strategy and advice of others to learn how you should prevent substance misuse and go on the offense before you have to play the much harder game of defense when your child is already in trouble.  You may want to take a look at one of InterAct LifeLine’s portals called Rethink the Family.com (http://rethinkthefamily.com) where there is an abundance of education about the disease, how to talk to kids, and prevention strategies you can use. Now, let’s explore “the who”.   There are so many people out there that parents already know who can be helpful.  All you have to do is ask.  Let’s start with people at your child’s school.  Teachers have their ear to the ground, know when kids are falling behind, and may see behavioral issues before you do.  I started my career as a middle school teacher and believe me, I knew what was going on. Get to school, schedule a conference with teachers and invite the guidance counselors to join.  If they don’t know all the answers, they will now have their radar up and can be on high alert on your behalf. Then think about your neighbors and friends, particularly those who have kids the same age as yours.  My friends and neighbors were the first to alert me that I had a problem with my daughter Laura.  Their kids were telling them what they were seeing her do at school and the bad crowd that Laura was hanging out with.  Fortunately, I didn’t have to ask for their help; they offered it, but it taught me a lesson that sometimes your best allies are those closest to you. And then there are times when you need professional help.  Consider engaging the services of an adolescent therapist that is trained in substance misuse and addiction.  Think about having a full psycho-educational assessment to understand the issues driving behavior as well as any learning differences that are making their school performance much harder.  Some families opt to hire an educational consultant, experienced in at-risk adolescents who can help you assess the extent of the problem, offer solutions and recommend treatment options. And now for the “how” to ask for help.  Asking for help should seem relatively straightforward but it is almost never that simple. For some parents, it doesn’t seem natural to admit that they can't manage their teenager and have lost control.  They are almost always mortified by the behavior and ashamed to reveal what’s happening.  Parents, I’m telling you that it’s so critical that you swallow your pride, admit what is going on, and be honest about the details. Here is a strategy that works.  Start with letting the individual know that you need to have a confidential conversation about something you are struggling with that is causing you a great deal of stress and anxiety.  Then, let them know who it involves.  Don’t try and make it a hypothetical situation about someone else when it’s you that needs the help.  And don’t hold back when you are giving that person the details.  It will be hard to share your kid’s struggles, but people can’t help you if they don’t know the facts. And finally, let the person know what role you want them to play.  Do you need them to just be a good listener so you can get the problem out in the open to better process it?  Do you need them to offer advice?  Or are you looking for a partner or individual to help you solve the problem?  Takeaways When my daughter Laura got into trouble at age 14, I was fortunate to put my ego, fear and pride aside and accept what my friends shared with me to let me know Laura was in trouble.  I sought the school’s advice to see where Laura was in her academic performance and what we could do to keep her in school and get her back on track.  I put Laura in therapy with someone who specialized in working with adolescents.  And when that didn’t work, I hired an educational consultant to give me a deeper assessment, recommend a treatment program and a strategy to get her enrolled. Asking for help is a sign of strength, a recognition that a team is better than any one individual to solve a problem, and that you can push past your reservations for the sake of your child to get the help you need.

Podcast

This Audio Journal series focuses on what it takes to coach your family through the Opioid Crisis with the right game plan, a playbook, an understanding of your opponent and help from your “assistants” when it’s called for.  This episode will focus on how to avoid unforced errors that put your parenting game at risk. I watched Auburn and Alabama slug it out in the Iron Bowl with three touchdowns coming from errors made by both teams.  Unforced errors can make the difference between a win and a blowout.  Think about all the games that have been won or lost based on turnovers, missed assignments, dropped passes, or interceptions.   Often these unforced errors result when players or coaches don’t stick to the game plan, are unprepared or just not paying attention. There are number of unforced errors that parents make that are critical mistakes leading to big problems when it comes to drugs and alcohol.  Let’s look at those mistakes and ways to avoid them. The first unforced error is chalking up your child’s troubling behavior to growing pains or just being a teenager.   You’ve been living with your child for years, watching how they behave, perform in school, and if they comply with the rules. But then all of a sudden, things start to change.  They start to get defiant and disrespectful.  They have huge mood swings.  They begin to hide out in their room and keep you away from their friends and what they are up to.  They dress differently and their friend group has changed.  Are these signs of teenage growing pains?  Maybe, but if your child’s actions start to disrupt your family life, cause you to be suspicious and distrustful, or cause them to underperform in school or in their favorite sports team, look deeper and get an outside opinion to see if you have a bigger issue than that of just being a teenager. Another unforced error is to fail to secure items in your house that your child should not have access to.  If you drink and have bottles of alcohol lying around, it’s time to lock up your wine and your liquor cabinet.  Substance misuse often begins by sneaking alcohol from your supply and refilling your bottles with water.  If you have unused prescriptions from a doctor or dentist’s visit or a stay in the hospital, safely dispose of those expired medications or lock them up.  You don’t want to be your child’s drug dealer.  And unfortunately for some families, you need to stop leaving cash or valuables lying around.  This was one of my unforced errors and my daughter Laura took leftover Vicodin, raided my wine cellar and took money out of my wallet.  I left my car keys on a rack by the door, enabling her to sneak out at night, take the car and meet up with people she shouldn’t have been with. And what about the error of trying to be the cool parent.  I’ve talked to many parents who believe that it is inevitable that their teenagers are going to drink or smoke pot, so why not keep them safer by having them experiment with those things at home.  Big mistake.  Exposing the teenage brain to substances while it is still developing is a sure-fire way to risk your child may be the 1 in 10 that will develop the disease of addiction. It’s important that you understand the science behind adolescent brain development and what substances do to short circuit the normal brain development process.   My daughter began using drugs at age 14, developed the disease of addiction, and fought it for 15 years.  Her brain development stopped about that age making it much harder for her to become a functional adult. And what kind of signal are you sending to your child when you allow them to break the law by using alcohol before they legally are allowed to so or to smoke pot when it’s still illegal in most states?  And don’t believe for a minute that your kid can’t get addicted to marijuana.  It’s much more potent than when you were in college.   It’s never cool to let your teenagers use drugs and alcohol in your home or to participate with them. In addition to trying to be cool, another unforced error that parents make is trying too hard to be liked.  A football coach never thinks about whether his players will like him less when he sets up the starting lineup, makes a substitution, or sits someone on the bench.  Coaches can’t win if you second guess all your decisions, benchmarking them on a popularity index.  The same is true in parenting. Expect your teenagers to dislike many of your decisions when you have to make them in order to keep your kid accountable, have them comply with the rules, and keep them safe.  So, don’t hesitate to put them on restriction, take their phone, and confiscate their car keys if they break your rules.  And what if their behavior is sending up warning signals that cause you to suspect they are using drugs?  Then, get much more aggressive with your responses.  Search their room, drug test them, monitor their electronics, and restrict who you let them connect with. Remember that you are a parent first and foremost, not a participant in a popularity contest. One of the biggest errors a parent can make is being too ashamed to ask for help.  You will know it when things have gotten beyond your control.  I knew it when Laura was 15.  I tried to lock down the house and alarm the windows, but Laura continued to sneak out.  I took her to school, only to have her walk out the back door and fill her water bottle with vodka that she bought from the seniors.  And finally, she went missing for days.  I was mortified by her behavior, but knew I needed help and I involved everyone I could to give it to me. I understand that many parents are ashamed that things have gotten so out of control and the good kid their family, friends and neighbors knew is doing things that are terrifying.  But the mistake is hiding, waiting, or failing to disclose what you are struggling with.  Remember, you’ve likely never seen situations like this before, so call for backup.  You have school guidance counselors, church leaders, friends, family, therapists and a host of others ready to step in and assist. And last but not least, it’s always an unforced error when you fail to get the facts so you can make better decisions.   In the mid-2000’s we founded and ran a licensed adolescent treatment program and worked with hundreds of families whose teens were out of control, using drugs, and in need of an intervention.  They seemed in shock when their teenagers spilled the beans to us, revealing what they were up to and how they had kept their parents in the dark.  We realize where there is smoke there is fire, and the fire is a lot hotter than you realize.  Parents have quite a few tools to find out what their kids are up to, but often fail to use them. A simple drug test you buy from CVS or Walgreens will give you an idea what substances your kids may be using.  Monitoring your child’s electronics will let you know who they are texting, what they are saying, if they are researching subjects on the Internet that are drug related or if they are connecting with their drug dealers.  Use the tools, get the facts, and then make better decisions. Takeaways Teams that have unforced errors like turnovers, dropped passes or stupid penalties often lose the game because of those mistakes.  Parents can’t afford to make those mistakes because the stakes are so much higher. Don’t chalk up troubling behavior to teenage growing pains unless you have all the facts to support that conclusion. Make your home a safe place by removing or locking up items that can cause trouble such as unused prescriptions or alcohol.  Don’t try and be the cool mom and dad letting your kids drink and do drugs with you or in your home.  And don’t try and go it alone without asking for help when things have become beyond your control. When my daughter Laura got into trouble at age 14, I was naïve, took my eye off the ball and made quite a few unforced errors. Those errors allowed her to get away with her drug use long enough to become addicted and struggle with the disease that took her life 15 years later, only 2 years ago.  Unforced errors, no matter how innocent they may seem at the time, can have deadly consequences.

Podcast

This Audio Journal series focuses on what it takes to coach your family through the Opioid Crisis with the right game plan, a parent playbook, an understanding of your opponent and help from your “assistants” when it’s called for.  This episode will focus on the value of analyzing the data to understand the facts so you can make the right play calls. Nick Saban at Alabama implemented a GPS tracking system to monitor his player’s activity in practice so he could better predict if his team’s practice strategy wore his players out or kept them ready to go, particularly in post-season play.  He relied on data as much as his experience and instincts to create the right practice plan. Unfortunately, technology was not there when my daughter Laura started going off the rails in high school, using drugs, and engaging in very risky behavior. So, what type of systems, data, and facts do you need to have at your disposal to make better decisions on behalf of your child to protect them? Answer the question that is most critical. Is my child using drugs?  I’ve talked to quite a few parents who think their kids are in trouble, caught them drinking or smoking pot, and suspect they are doing more. But they’ve never drug tested them to confirm what they suspect.  A drug test may show that they did indeed smoke pot or a breathalyzer can confirm how much alcohol they have been drinking.  So, if that data comes back confirming what you suspect don’t hesitate to ground your kid, let them know that more testing is likely, take their car keys away and make sure they get and understand why this is a big deal. However, your decisions as a parent might be entirely different if the test reveals that they are doing something more dangerous like testing positive for cocaine, meth, opioids or heroin.  You may need to go above and beyond grounding them and taking their car.  The bottom line is that you need to know the facts to make intelligent decisions. Drug testing kits are inexpensive, easy to find at any local drug store or online, and easy to use.  Just follow some simple guidelines.  Make them random.  Research the potential countermeasures your kid may use to fool the test.  And most importantly, never apologize for using a test that could save their life and give you the data you need. Monitor how your child is connecting with others electronically.  Cell phones and laptops are now common tools that most middle and high schoolers use obsessively.  When they are used appropriately, they allow parents to stay in touch with your kids and allow kids to learn more about the world around them.  But those same tools can also be a way for kids to get into trouble.  My daughter used her phone to coordinate sneaking out in the middle of the night to smoke pot on the golf course, connect with high-school seniors who were selling her vodka she used during school and later with her drug dealers. So, let’s get the facts when it comes to understanding if your kids’ electronics are an asset or a liability.  Cell phone have parental controls so you can disable them at night.  You can install software to monitor texting.   The same applies to tablets and laptops.  Don’t hesitate to use software to monitor keystrokes so you can know what your kids search for, who they message, and what they are posting on social media.  And don’t forget to disable or take away the laptop before you go to bed because it’s also an engine to message their friends. Verify that your kid is where they say they are.  When my daughter Laura was in high school, she let me drop her off at school only to leave through the back door.  She had me take her to sports practice only to leave with a friend.  She told me that she was at dad’s house and told her dad she was with me. You get the picture.  As she got older, we installed a GPS tracking system on her car to follow where she was and to know what parts of town, known for drug dealers, she was in.  Today’s kids have smart phones and they are never very far away from them.  That gives you the opportunity to use technology to locate the phone thus locating the kid.  Our company InterAct LifeLIne is going above and beyond and in 2020 will offer SafetyNet, a technology program for parents that combines wearables and mobile technology to keep your kid located, remind them to show up for their commitments and verify that they are there by asking for check ins.  Before SafetyNet comes online, use the find my phone feature to keep track of where your kids say they are. Know the facts about your child’s school performance. When my son and daughter came home from school, I might have asked, “How did your day go?” or “How did you do on that test?”  The standard response that every parent hears is “good”, “fine”.  One of the key indicators that your child is engaged in substance misuse is a dramatic and unexpected drop in grades.  So how do you get the data you need to know the facts and not wait for the report card to come out. First, ask if your school has a parent portal.  If so, grades and assignments are posted regularly and not just at the end of the semester.  Ask your childrens’ teachers for their email address or look on the school’s website to find their contact information.  Reach out to teachers periodically to not only understand your children’s grades, but if they are missing homework assignments or underperforming unexpectedly.  And if the data tells you there’s a problem, request a live meeting with the teachers and school counselors to see what they know. Monitor your kids’ connections and posts on social media.  Back to my daughter Laura.  Facebook and Instagram weren’t around when she was in high school, but the minute she got her Facebook account, the first thing I did was to look at who she friended.  There were the usual suspects that had been her friends and soccer teammates in middle school, but then there were quite a few others that were clearly part of the drug culture, which was easy to spot from their posts and pictures.  Insist that you are one of their connections on social media, then monitor their timeline frequently.  If you have technology to monitor the keystrokes on their smart phones, tablets or laptops it’s a lot easier to keep tabs on what they post and who they connect with.  Takeaways If you are walking on the field in the fight against substance misuse and addiction and have none of the data you need to make strategy or game-time decisions, then be prepared to have a much more difficult time winning.  You need to know where your kid really is, who they are with, and what they are up to.  You need to have the data to know if your child is using and if so, what drugs are in their system.  You need to get the facts about how they perform in school to see if there is a drop off.   And look closely at their connections and posting history on social media. My daughter started her journey into drug use and addiction over 17 years ago when technology wasn’t as sophisticated to give me the facts I needed, so I was playing the game with the wrong information, flying blind and often making the wrong calls.  Laura lost her battle 2 years ago when she overdosed and died.  I often think that if I had the command of the facts, the outcome might have been different and the loss we took might have been avoided.

Audio Journal, Podcast

If you listened to the last Audio Journal, we focused on what it takes to coach your family through the Opioid Crisis with a game plan, a playbook, an understanding of your opponent and help from your “assistants” when it’s called for.  This episode will focus on what every successful college football coach knows and understand, that it’s much easier to play offense vs. always be on the defensive. Football coaches don’t start preparing during the game; they start way in advance by scouting the competition, evaluating their players, understanding what plays produce results and just committing the time to do their homework.  Your child may or may not ever use drugs or get addicted, but the reality is that 1 in 10 high schoolers will develop the disease of addiction before they even leave high schoool and that child may be yours.  We’re going to start the Parent Playbook by understanding how you can play offense before you have to play the much more difficult game of defense. Playing offense in the game against substance abuse begins with a good prevention strategy.  It’s hard for parents to get motivated to execute a prevention strategy when their child is a good student, a girl scout, an athlete and an all-around good kid.  All of those things applied to my daughter until she started using drugs at age 14, became addicted and was in for the fight of her life, only to overdose and die after a 15-year struggle.  I never played offense, so I spent 15 years playing the tougher game, defense. Here’s how to execute a good offensive prevention strategy. Start your game strategy by understanding the risk factors.  The disease of addiction runs in families so understand if it’s present in yours, your spouse’s or your extended family.  Developing the disease requires a genetic link that kicks off the propensity of one’s brain to respond in overdrive in the presence of drugs and alcohol.  Children that find it difficult to regulate their emotions, who have been bullied, who have had learning differences are all at higher risk.  And think about children who have experienced other changes or difficulties they struggle with like managing through a divorce, a move to a new neighborhood or school, enduring stressful situations or trauma. They are statistically at much higher risk than other kids, so evaluate if this applies to your family.  InterAct LifeLine has been collecting great content and education and making it available in online portals to help parents understand the risk of addiction so they can be better prepared. All you have to do is visit rethinkthefamily.com and there is great information waiting for you. Next, talk to your kids and educate them about the risks.  Executing an offensive strategy is most successful when you prepare your team to understand the game they are playing. Start early and have conversations about substances in an age-appropriate way.  Kids learn science in school, so give them a science lesson on what might happen to the brain when they drink or do drugs.  Help them know what drugs are out there and what they need to do to avoid them.   In addition to helping parents understand the risk of addiction, InterAct also gives you the help you need to use the right words to begin the conversation with your kids at any age. Consider proactively and randomly drug testing your middle or high schoolers. Don’t think of drug testing as a punishment, but rather as a gift.  Your kids can now blame their crazy parents when they choose to turn down the chance to smoke pot or take pills because they can tell their friends they are being drug tested and are sure to be caught.  Drug tests can be bought at any drug store and are cheap and easy to use.  Your child may try and fool the system, so you have to make tests random and take countermeasures to make sure that the tests give you the right results. Trust but verify.  My daughter would tell me that she was at rowing practice, with a friend, or engaged in a school activity.  But that wasn’t the truth.  She was not where she said she was and engaged in activities that she didn’t want me to know about.  Back then, I didn’t have the same technology tools that parents have today.   You have the ability to find my iPhone or install technology on your kid’s phone or laptop to monitor their keystrokes and messages.  Our company InterAct LifeLine is going to help parents out with our 2020 product release, SafetyNet to use the smart phone coupled with wearables to help you geolocate your child and ask for check-ins to prove they are where they said they would be.  Coach from the field not from the stands.  If you are going to play offense, you have to know the players on the field.  Volunteer at your child’s school, meet with the teachers, and understand the environment by talking to other parents. Know your child’s friends, have them over, meet their parents, and understand what their environment is like if your child goes out with them or over to their house.  There is nothing that compares to being right in the middle of the action vs. being in the stands, having your child tell you what is going on through their filter. Takeaways Addiction is a chronic disease just like diabetes.  Once you have developed it, you will always have it and have to manage it to stay healthy.  You and your child will always be playing defense instead of offense.  That’s why a good offensive strategy focuses on prevention and includes understanding the risk factors and helping your children understand the risks.  Playing offense may include proactively drug testing your kids to give them an excuse to still be cool and blame everything on you.  You should try and communicate that while you trust your child, today’s deadly drug environment requires you to verify.  And no game is won if the coach is not totally involved. Had I been educated and prepared to play offense with both my son and daughter, I might have been able to prevent or delay Laura’s drug use giving her brain a chance to develop so it was less vulnerable to the substances that kicked off the disease.  Instead, after Laura began using drugs at age 14, I stayed on the field playing defense for 15 long years, a very difficult game that unfortunately I didn’t win as she overdosed and died 2 years ago.   So, let’s commit to prevention and playing offense because nobody wants to play the same game as I did.

Audio Journal, Podcast

We’re coming to the end of the college football season where an elite group of teams will realize their dreams of winning their division, being tapped for a bowl game or being selected for the national championship playoffs.  Every one of the teams had one thing in common; they started their season with a game plan, did their research and homework to create the plan and adjusted it dynamically for each and every game. Coaches like Nick Saban of Alabama, Kirby Smart of Georgia, Dabo Swinney of Clemson or Ryan Day of Ohio State lead their staff to look at the talent they’ve recruited, understand their opponents, analyze the impact of playing at home or away and spent  countless hours crafting a game plan that will produce a win. If you are the coach of your family and have children, particularly adolescents, the most important game you will ever play and one you cannot afford to lose is against the disease of addiction brought on in large part by the Opioid Crisis.  You have to have a game plan, a playbook, an understanding of your opponent and get help from your “assistants” Here is an overview of what college football coaches do to win each and every week and the lessons that we, as the coaches of our families, can learn when we are on the field, fighting against the drug use that sidelines our kids, takes them out of the game, and cripples or kills them. First, you have to prepare for game day.  Football coaches don’t start preparing during the game; they start way in advance by scouting the competition, evaluating their players, understanding what produces results and just committing the time to do their homework.  Your child may or may not ever use drugs or get addicted, but the reality is that 1 in 10 high schoolers will develop the disease of addiction so you may be the ones that have to take the field.  You need to act “as if” you will get the call to play in the game of your life and be prepared in advance.  Learn the factor that contribute to make your children more at risk.  Ask yourself what are the telltale signs of drug use?  Understand your opponents: the drugs, the bad friends, the dealers so if you get the call, you’ve done your homework. And think about how much harder it is to play defense when your child is already using vs. offense where you focus on prevention.   Learn how to control the game by being proactive, educating your child, monitoring them, and executing a prevention strategy. Become data driven.  Nick Saban at Alabama implemented a GPS tracking system to monitor his player’s activity in practice so he could better predict if his team’s practice strategy wore his players out or kept them ready to go, particularly in post-season play.  He relied on data as much as his experience and instincts to create the right practice plan. If you are walking on the field in the fight against substance misuse and addiction and have none of the data you need to make strategy decisions, then be prepared to have a much more difficult time.  You need to have the data drug tests provide to know if your child is using and if so, what drugs are in their system.  You need to get the facts about how they perform in school to see if there has been a drop off.  You need to know where your kid really is, who they are with, and what they are up to. Good coaches don’t commit unforced errors.  Every college football coach cringes at unforced errors that can make the difference between a win and a blowout.  Think about all the games that have been won or lost based on turnovers, missed assignments, dropped passes, or interceptions.   Often these unforced errors result when players or coaches don’t stick to the game plan, are unprepared or just not paying attention. There are number of unforced errors that parents make that cause them to make critical mistakes leading to big problems when it comes to drugs and alcohol.  They fail to notice the warning signs.  They don’t hold their child accountable for their actions.  They don’t have a handle on where their child is, who their friends are and what they are up to.  These unforced errors can make it much more difficult to get the result you need. Know when to pivot.  I’ll never forget the National Championship, Georgia vs. Alabama, Kirby Smart against Nick Saban.  I sat in Mercedes Benz stadium watching the Bulldogs pummel the Crimson Tide in the first half.  But in the second half, Saban adjusted, pulled out his starting quarterback, changed the game plan and beat us in overtime.  He pivoted when he needed to. Ben Franklin tells us that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over again and expecting a different result.  It’s time to pivot when your attempts to get a correction from troubling and dangerous behavior your children are engaging in that aren’t working.  A pivot means changing the game plan that may include seeking treatment for your child, random drug testing, monitoring locations where they say they are and requiring check ins, a change of schools or a host of other decisions that can change the trajectory of the game.  Be willing to make a game time decision when you are not getting the right result. Rely on your assistants.  Good coaches know that they don’t have all of the answers.  That’s why they rely on their assistants. Back to Nick Saban of Alabama.  He has hired the best assistant coaches, relied on their advice, and let them take the lead in their area of expertise. Managing your child when he is oppositional, defiant, losing ground at school, and using drugs that can cause overdose at any minute is not something parents should try and manage without help.  There are plenty of good assistants out there to help parents adjust their strategy, send in better plays, protect their children, and know when they need to change the game plan completely. Takeaways I’m sure many of you listening to this are thinking that you may never have to take the field because your kids are never going to be those 1 in 10 who use drugs, get addicted, and have their lives changed forever.  I was one of those parents who lost their daughter to overdose 2 years ago.   I was never prepared to play the game because I didn’t do my homework to understand the reality of drug use in our community, now known as the heroin triangle.   I didn’t have a good game plan, the right assistants or pivoted quickly enough.  The result was that Laura struggled with addiction off and on for 15 years, only to lose her battle at age 29. Parents, you are the coach of a game that you have to win.  Winning requires hard work, strategy, persistence, getting help when you need it, changing what doesn’t work, and keeping your child safe.  This is the first in a series of Audio Journals that take the parent playbook, break it down for you, and help you coach a winning game.

Audio Journal, Podcast

Audio Journal Technology to Take on the Opioid Crisis When I look at my iPhone or open up my laptop, I’m like most people going to Facebook.  But unlike most people, I’m not spending very much time checking in with my friends or searching for the latest products I can’t do without.  I’m watching the posts of families in Facebook groups that I belong to that are expressing profound grief, sadness and despair over losing a loved one to overdose or their own personal struggles with addiction.  I belong to those groups because my daughter Laura overdosed and died two years ago after struggling for 15 years battling heroin, opioids and meth. Addiction, driven in large part by the opioid crisis, is killing many of our young people at an alarming rate, decimating rural communities who lack access to treatment, costing our economy over a trillion a year, and ruining the lives of millions of families nationwide.  After processing my grief over the loss of my daughter, I decided to do something about it using the technology my company built over the last 8 years that has served countless businesses who sell services through independent sales agencies. In my business career, I’ve become aware of technologies that are transforming medical healthcare making it easy and affordable to monitor patients in their home, have telehealth doctor visits and transmit vitals to the cloud.  I decided that it was time to see if my company’s technology could also transform addiction and mental healthcare and change the trajectory of how we extend care, monitor people struggling with the disease, improve how people recover and start to reduce those rising death rates. The treatment industry has to find a way to make a shift and leverage technology the same way that medical healthcare has.  There are too many patients and not enough therapists to keep up with everyone that needs help, patients need better ways to access treatment remotely, the cost of treatment needs to go down, patients need to be connected to treatment longer and our understanding of the disease needs to change. So, this year I created InterAct LifeLine, a technology company that partners with treatment providers to accomplish all of those things.  Beyond that, we support the very successful collegiate recovery communities so they can automate themselves and serve the growing number of students that need their help.  In a little less than a year, we’ve been able to transform the technology we have used in the business marketplace and launch successful pilot programs in collegiate recovery and addiction treatment.  Here is what we are doing and why it is works. InterAct keeps people connected longer.  The research is clear.  If you stay connected to a treatment program for at least six consecutive months, the chances are that relapse will go down.  Why is this critical?  The relapse rate after a 30-day stay in rehab is around 85% in the first year often in the first couple of months.  There are a lot of reasons for that alarming statistic, but the main one is that although addiction is a chronic disease, but we treat it like an acute one.  That means that once the patient looks good after rehab, we release them without a good way to have the longer-term treatment plan that they really need. So how does InterAct’s technology keep people connected?  Technology provides programs with portal technology that automates many of the processes that staff would be required to do to run an extended care program.  Let’s take a look at how that works. First, we help programs provide structure and accountability for their clients once they have left a residential setting.  When you go to treatment, your day is planned for you.   Your meals, therapy sessions, group meetings and even down time is scheduled, and frankly, there is a lot of comfort and security in not having to make those decisions when you are fighting to get healthy.  But when you check out, that structure goes away leaving the person to make those decisions, fend for themselves and lose the accountability that is so helpful in staying healthy.  InterAct’s technology offers personal calendars where the program or the individual can add commitments like meeting with their sponsor or recovery coach, going to an AA meeting, or showing up at work.  Text reminders are sent multiple times before each calendar event and the system can ask for the person to “check in” so they know that the program cares and is holding them accountable.  Having a schedule seems simple, but for someone trying to recover, this level of structure is often quite difficult. Our technology promotes connections to community.   Alcoholics Anonymous is one of the most successful and long-standing group organizations in the world.  Collegiate Recovery Communities produce higher GPA’s & graduation rates and astoundingly low relapse rates among their participants.   Why is that?  The answer is that being connected to support communities is a vital component for addicts to stay healthy.  Knowing that, how does technology make it easier for programs to keep their participants connected?  There are many times people just can’t or won’t make it to a face to face meeting.  The live too far away, don’t have the right transportation, or may be overly anxious about meeting others face to face.  That’s where technology comes in handy because all you need is a connection to the Internet and a smart phone to get connected to community.  InterAct provides virtual support groups with guided discussions over webinar technology.  Portals have offer online discussion forums for people to ask questions, share solutions, and get help.  And for collegiate recovery programs, we are building a national directory of program alumni so they can get in touch with each other, no matter where they live. Our technology automates the processes of reaching out and checking in.  The staff at any program don’t have enough hours in the day to sit down and call everyone, text them or check in one by one.  That’s where InterAct’s technology comes in.  Our portal system can send out reminders to login or show up for meetings automatically.  We create simple questionnaires that people can respond to that let a program know how they are doing.  The technology can even score those responses and alert the team if there are issues that need to be addressed.  And that brings us to education.  It is so vital that people understand not only the disease but the ways you can maintain your health.   If you have heart disease, you are educated to modify your diet, your exercise and change many things about your lifestyle.  Do those things and your chances of dying from a heart attack drop dramatically.  The same thing applies to the importance of education in addiction.  Once you understand the disease, you can create a nutritional and exercise plan, use mindfulness and meditation to reduce anxiety, and learn how to treat other disorders like depression that often go hand-in-hand with the disease. InterAct is built for education.  We have created an extensive online content and education library, with information collected from the best resources out there, carefully organized by subjects to make things easy to find.  Every program that works with us has a portal that is connected to the library for a continuous feed of great information.  And portals don’t wait for people to come look.  The system automatically alerts you when there is an interesting article to read, a video to watch, or an e-book to download with links to go right to it. And then there is help for the family.  I’m particularly passionate about this because having a family that’s involved, educated about their role in the recovery process and healthy themselves after being in a battle they didn’t choose dramatically improves how their loved one and the family recover.  Our technology delivers a robust family support program that is turnkey for the program that has our solution. Portals provide education not only for the patient, but for their family.  Virtual support groups and discussion forums keep families connected for ideas, strategies and help.  InterAct partners with telehealth organizations to provide connections to family therapists or psychiatrists so families can start to heal and repair their family systems.  And we’re partnering with professionals to create an online family assessment tool to give that family more insight into where they need help. So, how will we know if this is working or not?  Technology can help give us the answers.  So many programs don't have the time or resources to follow up on their patients to understand how effective they are.  Keep a patient connected longer-term and you have a much better understanding of your results.  Our technology is data driven.  We record how often you visit the portal and what content you interact with.  We know if you checked in to appointments, how you answered your questionnaire, or if you read your messages.  That data can be compiled and used to produce outcomes studies so programs can adjust and get better. And it doesn't stop there.  We are now working on a partnership with a well-known fitness tracking company to take data continuously out of wearables that track your steps and your vitals, scrub that data, and use it to monitor your recovery health.  Imagine being alerted if someone is going into overdose, knowing where they are, and getting help in time.  Imagine understanding your stress levels and proactively being able to reduce them.  Or what about monitoring your sleep patterns so you can get the rest you need.  All of that data is out there, and we will repurpose it so we keep people safer and healthier. In 2020, we will use the same technology with its monitoring and tracking capabilities, power to connect people to community, educate them, and the ability to detect overdose and launch SafetyNet, a prevention program for parents and adolescents.   1 in 10 students develop the disease before they leave high school, but it’s entirely preventable if you are educated, know the risk factors and take steps to prevent it. Takeaway Technology alone can’t solve the opioid crisis, but it can make a profound difference.  We believe in partnerships and providing this important weapon to the programs and treatment professionals that are in the fight every day.  Look at the impact technology has had on medical care and just imagine what it can do for people trying to recover from addiction.  Then ask yourself:  What if we can provide treatment to more people and keep them connected longer?  What if we can bring families into the process and help them heal at the same time?  What if we can monitor your vitals and better protect you from overdose? I ask those questions every day and wonder what if I had had those tools for my own daughter.  Perhaps she wouldn’t have been one of those statistics and she would be at our Thanksgiving table and opening her Christmas presents.  InterAct is dedicated to make sure that more families can spend the holidays together so it’s a time of joy and not one of grief and regret.

Audio Journal, Podcast

Audio Journal The Elderly, the Forgotten Victims of Addiction For 20 years, my mother in law had a great relationship with the man she fell in love with when she met him on a cruise at age 74.  But things changed dramatically a few years ago.  As he aged, he experienced a number of health issues that plague so many of the elderly.  His joints started to fail, his health declined, and he began to experience persistent pain.  Enter a less than competent doctor who managed his health issues with only one strategy, prescribe opioids. It didn’t take long for the 90-year old to become addicted, needing more and more of the medications to manage his pain so he could get through the day, despite the fact that those medications became less effective over time.  He was now addicted, and along with many other addicts, his loving and caring personality changed.  He became angry, irritable, blaming and abusive.  He engaged in the same drug-seeking behavior we would normally associate with a teenager. Ultimately the relationship ended when my mother in law had enough and now, she’s spending her final years alone. Is this story unique among the elderly?  Unfortunately, it is not. It is estimated that 17% of individuals over age 65 struggle with the disease of addiction.  Perhaps they’ve been struggling with addiction for years, but more often they have developed the disease after being over prescribed pain medication without a long-term plan to transition from pills to deal with the underlying causes of the pain. The fact is that addiction among the elderly goes unrecognized and undiagnosed robbing them of getting the help that they need.  This trend is made worse because family and medical professionals are not informed about the risks of addiction in the elderly, office visits to the doctor are often hurried and healthcare providers often overlook substance abuse among the elderly. Not recognizing addiction in the elderly is made worse because they often have medical or behavioral disorders that mimic symptoms of substance abuse, such as depression, diabetes, or dementia. There are certain times in an elderly person’s life that make them more vulnerable for developing addiction.  Here are a few. People retire.  You get up and go to work daily, have a purpose, and have structure in your life.  Then you retire, have lots of time on your hands, miss your work friends, and have a hard time adjusting.  Stress around making that change often motivates individuals to turn to alcohol to cope.   Not to mention that many of the elderly haven’t planned well enough so the loss of income and financial stress also becomes triggering events. The person has experienced the death of a family member, their pet or close friends.  As we age, the people that have been important in our lives start to die off.  One loses their spouse, their best friend, or their brothers or sisters.  Grief and depression set in and substances became a coping mechanism. As we get older, our sleep patterns change.  I remember that my dad when he aged, he began to wake up in the middle of the night, move to the couch and find it hard to go back to bed.  With changing sleep patterns, the elderly may seek relief in prescription pills. Being relocated or placed in a nursing home is often a catalyst for being overprescribed.  Audit the medications a nursing home patient takes, and you might be astounded at how many mood stabilizers, pain pills, sleeping pills and anti-anxiety drugs are prescribed so these individuals become more manageable.  The downside consequence is that they become addicted and face the consequences that come along with the disease. The people most at risk are those facing mental or physical declines.  My mother in law’s husband had joint problems, needed hip replacement and experienced chronic pain.  My mother in law had osteoporosis and multiple trips to the hospital with broken bones.  She was on a long-term diet of opioids that had totally lost their effectiveness. Drug and alcohol abuse among the elderly is particularly dangerous because senior citizens face more deteriorating effects brought on by sustained substance abuse. As we age and reach 65, we have a decreased ability to metabolize drugs or alcohol along with increased brain sensitivity to them. This makes it dangerous for seniors to use drugs or alcohol at all, even if the person isn’t addicted. Prescription benzos, such as Valium, that are used to treat anxiety, pain or insomnia, are some of the most dangerous prescription drugs for seniors. Doctors love prescribing them even though they are highly addictive. The rate of senior citizens addicted to benzos has increased every year. So, now that you know that we have a real problem with our senior citizens, what should we do about it?  The first step is to recognize if there is a problem and here are some clues. Watch out for slurred speechLook for physical changes such as weight loss, decreased appetite and unkempt appearance or poor hygiene.Notice an increase in their drinking habits.  If they normally had an occasional glass of wine, but now drink daily, that’s a warning sign.Watch for repeated requests to go to the doctor without a corresponding medical reason to do so.  My father in law was doctor shopping for pain pills.Notice repeated falls or blackouts.  That may not be aging, but substance abuse.Think about behavior you would spot in your teens as being problematic that may be characteristic of drug seeking – lying, hiding, anger or deflection.Watch for other mental issues such as anxiety or depression. Now that you suspect substance abuse or addition, what should you do?   This is different than working with a teenager that you have control over, so you have to manage it differently. First, attend doctors’ meetings with your family member.  Challenge the doctor on their pain management strategies and propensity to prescribe.  Ask for strategies that get to the root of the problem vs. just masking it. If your loved one is in a nursing home or assisted living, ask for a medication review.  You may be shocked at how many drugs they are on and what is just not necessary. Be loving, but direct with your loved one if you suspect a problem. Tell them what you are observing and collaborate to help them address the problem.  Don’t be judgmental and prepare that they may be resistant to the conversation but be persistent. Consider treatment.  Research indicates that older people do just as well in addiction treatment as do younger ones.  A recovery strategy for the elderly may just help them refocus on find purpose in their lives, giving back, and being less disconnected and unhappy. Takeaway In the midst of the Opioid Crisis, let’s not forget that we owe it to our seniors to pay attention, recognize that they are vulnerable, and we should take steps to help them live a pain free, addiction free and happier life.

Audio Journal, Podcast

The Power of Gratitude You may be struck that the topic of this audio journal is gratitude, especially in the midst of the opioid crisis, the deaths of 70,000 people each year from overdose and the ravages of an addiction pandemic. After the loss of my daughter Laura to overdose 2 years ago gratitude has been the one thing that has helped me through what could have been an unbearable loss.  I am grateful for the time I had with her, for the lessons her disease taught me, for having the insight to use my knowledge of technology to create a new company to take on the opioid crisis and for my friends who have reached out, stayed in touch and have been supportive. I belong to Facebook groups focused on addiction and the loss of loved ones to the disease and one overarching theme is that grief has sucked people into the deepest and darkest of holes that they cannot seem to crawl out of.  Not only have they lost a loved one, but they’ve lost marriages, friends, jobs, and most tragically themselves.  If you are struggling with addiction yourself, trying to create a recovery plan, attempting to  help a family member who is trying to get clean and sober, or trying to cope with the loss of someone you loved from overdose, here are some reasons to consider a shift in focus to appreciate what you still have vs. what you have lost,  Here is how gratitude is helpful. Being grateful makes you a happier person.  Research reveals that if you just spend 5 minutes a day writing down what you are grateful your feeling of long-term happiness will go up and sustain itself over time. Gratitude reduces your feelings of jealousy.  When my daughter starting using drugs at age 14 and spent most of her teenage and young adult years in and out of treatment, I found myself feeling jealous when I watched my friends shop for their daughters’ prom dresses, teaching them  to drive or contemplating where  they were  going to college.  However, I was blessed in having several young ladies in my life without their mothers that allowed me to do those things that I couldn’t do with Laura.  My gratitude at having those opportunities and experiences did wonders in making those jealous moment disappear. Gratitude makes us less self-centered.  When we face challenges, it’s natural to focus on how bad we feel and how those challenges affect us.  Being grateful by its very definition causes us to start thinking about others which can be very healing.  For me, I tell Laura’s story repeatedly in an effort to offer insight and help to other struggling families making me grateful that I had the opportunity to help. Gratitude helps you exert and regain more control over your life.  Addiction is a disease by its very nature that causes one to lose control over choices.  If you have an addicted family member, you understand how little control you have over getting them to stop using and stop taking risks.  Studies have found that gratitude increases people’s self-control, and it increases their ability to wait.   According to the researchers, gratitude is like a self-control buffer helping you be ready to resist temptation and do the right thing. An attitude of gratitude promotes health.  Dealing with addiction takes a toll on your health Research shows that grateful people are generally healthier, so it’s good to get all the help we can. So, knowing that gratitude makes you happier and healthier and has a range of other benefits, how in the face of overwhelming challenges can we start to develop gratitude in our lives?  The secret is to start small, and over time, gratitude becomes part of who you are. Start by focusing on what you have, rather than what you don’t have. When you struggle with addiction yourself, have a family member that is struggling or experience the grief over the changes in your life or the loss of a loved one, it’s easy to focus on what you have lost. Practicing gratitude is all about being thankful for what you have versus focusing on all the things that you don’t have, which makes you feel negative, jealous and angry. Honor the progress you or others around you have made.   Recovery is a series of small victories that combine into lasting change.  Don’t beat yourself or others up when there are setbacks, rather be grateful for the steps forward. Appreciate the small things.  We are surrounded by a host of small things that improve our lives, give us pleasure, or make us smile.  Take time to think about how good your first cup of coffee tasted, how pretty your rose bush is, the cardinal that landed on your window or just the feeling of sunshine on your face. Sometimes it helps to write things down in a gratitude journal so you can look back and remember things that made you smile. Make it a goal to give to others daily.  Teaching someone how to solve a hard math problem helps you be better at math. Being generous with your time by extending yourself to others is a big part of practicing gratitude. There are plenty of ways to give back in small ways.  Pay for the Starbucks coffee for the person behind you.  Help someone bring their groceries in.   Lend an ear to someone else struggling.  Over time those small acts of kindness add up and increase your sense of well-being. Learn how to meditate. Mindfulness meditation involves focusing on the present moment without judgment. Some people practice mindfulness by focusing on a word or a phrase, but it is also possible to focus on what you're grateful for (the warmth of the sun, a pleasant sound, a favorite food). Takeaways I lost my daughter Laura just before Christmas, so coming into the holiday season could be a time of regret, loss, and sadness.  Although I have those feelings, I also take this time to reflect on what I still have, be grateful for those gifts and recommit to be of service to others who struggle with their at-risk teenager who they just caught with pills, their spouse who is on their 3rd treatment  program and how they are going to pay for it, the student trying to manage their recovery in college....and  the list goes on. Gratitude has helped me acknowledge the goodness in my life, the ways I can continue to make an impact through InterAct LifeLine, and the strength I’ve been given to turn grief into purpose.

Addiction, debunk, Mental Health, program, Recovery, Treatment

Podcast Transcript: Turning Grief into Purpose How My Company Transformed to Take On the Opioid Crisis If there ever was a charmed life, I was sure that I was living it. I grew up in the perfect small town, raised by the picture-perfect parents. My grades were outstanding, and I breezed through college, married the popular guy from my hometown and settled into having it all....2 beautiful kids, a loving husband and a technology career. But sometimes life throws you curve balls, and it threw me some big ones that hit me right between the eyes and knocked me for a loop. My handsome husband descended into alcoholism leading to a divorce when I turned 40. Not understanding that we were dealing with addiction, a disease that runs in families, I was blindsided when my 14-year-old daughter began using drugs that took us on a 15-year journey of rehab, relapse and more treatment. I got educated through my experience with Laura, even opening a licensed therapeutic program for adolescents, but I was not prepared for the knock on the door that came at 4:00 AM when two very nervous and uncomfortable Roswell police officers let me know Laura had overdosed and had been “transported”. For two agonizing days we watched her struggle on life support only to learn what I already had accepted that she had been without oxygen for too long and her brain had lost the ability to tell her body what to do...she was dying from the inside. Although many friends and family held vigil with us at the hospital, one conversation stood out with a friend Laura had met in treatment who found her path to recovery after a serious heroin addiction. She said something surprising as we passed time in the waiting room, “You know, Carolyn, you and I are now in a position of privilege.” She went on to explain that we had a story to tell, an experience we had learned from, and the ability to change lives to prevent other families from experiencing the heartache of drug addiction and overdose. And that was the moment that everything changed for me. Starting the Journey Being the businessperson that I am, I started researching, reading, writing and thinking. Some of what I found shocked me. Laura was not alone in being on the hamster wheel of treatment and relapse. 85% of those that go to rehab relapse in the first year, often in the first few months after treatment. Laura was back in treatment over 10 times during the years. People were treating her addiction as an acute disease – 30 days and you’re good to go. But in reality, this disease is chronic, just like diabetes, and needs management over a lifetime. And treatment providers did a great job stabilizing the patient but didn’t continue to work with or follow them, despite research that proved a significant reduction in relapse if they did. The importance of connections After talking to a number of people in long-term recovery, in collegiate recovery communities and those running treatment programs, I realized that “connections” were a strong indicator of those that could make the move from rehab to long term recovery. So, what do people suffering from addiction need to be connected to? Let’s start with their treatment program. My daughter checked in and almost always developed trusted relationships with the program, got help getting sober, and bared her soul to her recovery coaches and therapists. Staying connected to those that helped her in the most critical time of need could have helped Laura craft a plan to recover. 30 days of rehab was not enough time and the structure, accountability and on-going education she needed was not there once she checked out. Government research indicates that individuals who stay connected to their treatment program for at least 6 consecutive months following rehab have a much lower rate of relapse. Addictions treatment depends heavily on group support, a very important way those having gone through treatment recover. The most successful group support organizations are AA and NA, Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous. If patients could stay connected to the same groups of people they bonded with in acute treatment or rehab, then those trusted relationships could be extended offering comfort in a shared experience. But sometimes making and keeping those connections are problematic because individuals may not have transportation, are worried about their privacy or just ashamed of their disease. And what about the connection to family? Many families became disconnected as they tried to navigate the difficulties in helping their loved one manage a disease they just didn’t understand. But family understanding, help and support is critical to recovery. So, what if those connections could be repaired and strengthened? When a family has an addicted loved one, the family system becomes dysfunctional, under attacked, stressed beyond belief, so finding a way to reconnect needs to be addressed and prioritized. As we can see, connections to treatment, support communities and family can make all the difference in helping people sustain recovery. As it just happened, I own a technology company that makes connections possible every day in the business world. We use our portals to connect vendors to channel sellers, educate them and inspire them to action. So, I started asking myself a number of “what if” questions. What if the same technology could be used to create connections for those that had been in addictions treatment? What if we could use our services to educate and engage families? What if we could help treatment programs automate and keep their patients connected longer so they could get the extended treatment they needed without having to be in in-patient care? What if we could provide the desperately needed accountability, structure and education individuals so desperately needed? The answers were right in front of me. Our technology was built for this purpose and had all of the features and capabilities that we needed. And that’s when we decided to create InterAct LifeLine to take the technology that had served the business world so well and repurpose it in service of addiction treatment and recovery. One of the things I’ve been able to do in my long career is use technology to change processes with the best example coming from my time the audio teleconferencing industry. The addictions treatment industry is right for a process change. And that’s where InterAct comes in. I found lots of mobile apps floating around the addiction world, most of them attempting to bypass the treatment provider and go straight to the individual. I decided that partnership with providers was a better strategy and that offering services using technology could extend the relationship with the patient and their family, offer education and understanding, add accountability and structure and create connections to support communities. Here is our vision for InterAct LifeLine to support extended treatment, reduce relapse and improve recovery. Every treatment program using InterAct gets their own portal, an online location to house education, support connections, and outreaches to patients and families.Program portals are connected to a centralized content library where the best resources from around the country on addiction, recovery, family support and wellness strategies automatically refresh portals with current content.Structure and accountability are achieved with personal calendars, appointment reminders, and check-ins. Clients commit to a schedule and we help them keep it.Families participate in discussion forums, attend virtual support groups and are offered telehealth connections to family therapists.Mobile technology can keep patients located and monitor their vitals to detect overdose. In 2019, we’re testing with addictions treatment programs and collegiate recovery communities and getting great results. Our hope is to reach as many programs as possible, increase access to treatment, take on the opioid crisis, and help people understand and manage this chronic disease. Back to Laura for a minute. It’s heartbreaking to think what might have happened if she had these tools available when she struggled so hard to turn things around. I’m committed to the goal of helping families with other loved ones like Laura not go through the grief and suffering that addiction brings. We make strides with other diseases all the time...AIDS is no longer a death sentence....cancer is being beaten back.....and certainly we can do the same thing with addiction.

Addiction, debunk, Mental Health, program, Recovery, Treatment

Podcast Transcript: Every president since Bill Clinton has tried to tackle the question of how to improve healthcare in America, but the government can’t seem to find its footing with a solution that pleases everyone. But quietly, private enterprise has been advancing the ball in medical care by introducing new insurance models, concierge medicine and technology solutions to make access to healthcare more streamlined and cost effective. These advances, driven by the private sector, are dropping the cost of accessing primary care, allowing people to get connected from the privacy of their home, and making it less likely that they will readmit after a stay in the hospital. Unfortunately, the world of mental health and addictions treatment has not yet taken advantage of technology in the treatment process. Addictions and mental health patients just don’t have access to the same digital experiences that streamline treatment, lower cost, and reduce the chances that they will readmit needing more acute care. In this audio journal, we will take a look at the drivers in the mental health and addictions treatment world that make having a technology strategy essential and not optional as we go into 2020. Let’s look at what is going on in the marketplace that make incorporating technology into treatment an important trend. Number one is a severe shortage of treatment professionals. The shortage of mental health professionals in the United States is a huge and growing problem, especially as the country continues to move towards realizing the importance of mental health treatment. In the U.S., nearly 1 in 5 people have some sort of mental health condition, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association. A 2016 report released by the Health Resources and Services Administration projected the supply of behavioral health workers to be approximately 250,000 people short of the projected demand by 2025. The bottom line is there are just not enough people to treat those that need it. Technology has the potential to make the professionals that we do have more efficient and better able to treat more clients using solutions like telehealth appointments. Unfortunately, the opioid crisis is driving demand The need for more effective and accessible substance abuse treatment has increased with the opioid addiction epidemic, specifically in more rural areas. The numbers are alarming. It is estimated that over 10 million people in the US currently abuse opioids with 130 people dying each day from overdose. And the crisis is more acute in remote areas that have many residents who been come addicted and need to be treated. Unfortunately, those areas are less attractive to treatment professionals. However, connecting to patients remotely with telehealth appointments or other virtual options allow the professional to be anywhere and have a conversation with a patient that needs their help, even in harder to reach areas. Some patients just can’t get to a treatment professional. Patients who have been treated and are recovering at home, patients who are not mobile because they lack adequate transportation, have lost their license, and who live in rural, remote areas often can’t make it to their appointments. As long as a patient has a way to connect to the internet, telehealth enables them to access therapists, recovery coaches and support groups. There is definitely a need to reduce stigma and increase privacy with some patients. While there’s a broader acceptance that addiction is a disease that requires treatment and other mental health disorders often come with the landscape, stigma is still a problem for some patients. Often, the shame and stigma associated with the disease is more crippling than the disease itself. Access to treatment through telehealth solutions can offer patients more options to ensure their privacy is protected. Weekly therapy appointments or group support meetings could be done over the web from home or after work hours so patients can maintain their privacy. Staying connected reduces relapse. It’s a fact that the relapse rates after an in-patient rehab stay are 85% in the first year, often in the first few months following treatment. We would never accept these poor results for any other medical treatment, but it’s become the norm in the world of addiction treatment. Although there is not a consensus about why so many people relapse, one statistic is clear: the longer a person stays connected to the program that offered rehab treatment, the lower the relapse rate is. Technology offers the opportunity to automate the extended care process, keep patients connected longer and improve outcomes. Offering technology solutions as treatment options makes it easier to produce outcome studies. When someone comes out of a 30-day rehab, they look healthy, have drugs out of their system and start the recovery process. So, ask a treatment program how that person is doing a year from now, the true test of treating a chronic disease successfully, and most programs will not be able to tell you. If programs were able to extend treatment, follow their clients, and use technology to measure how people are engaging and recovering, then measuring the effectiveness of the treatment would be easier. Technology provides the opportunity for data driven solutions to understand patient outcomes. Takeaways The addiction and mental health industries can no longer afford to ignore the technologies that are transforming medical healthcare. There are too many patients and not enough therapists to keep up with everyone that needs help with technology being one of the best solutions to create efficiencies to treat more people with less resources. Beyond that, patients need better ways to access treatment remotely, reduce the cost of treatment, maintain their privacy, and keep connected to treatment longer.

Addiction, debunk, Mental Health, program, Recovery, Treatment

Podcast Transcript: Debunking Addictions Myths We live in a world of urban myths. You’ve heard the stories that we never really landed on the moon; it was all shot in a sound studio. Or what about the myth that we are storing aliens in Roswell, New Mexico after their space crafts cashed on Earth? Myths seem to be part of our culture, but unfortunately, they exist in the way people view others who struggle with addiction. Let’s look at some of the more common myths and debunk them as we get more educated about the reality behind addiction. Myth #1: Addiction is a choice. Nobody would make the choice to be addicted. Perhaps the person made the choice to misuse substances, but certainly did not make a choice to become an addict. Addiction is a “complex disease of the brain and body that involves compulsive use of one or more substances despite serious health and social consequences”. For an addict, the “reward center” of the brain that produces a pleasurable feeling, is hijacked when the drug or substance is used. The brain naturally produces dopamine, a reward neurotransmitter, but the use of drugs or alcohol produces an excesses release of dopamine each time it used. This results in a “high”. Once the high wears off, the individual’s brain craves more of the drug to obtain the same pleasurable rush it received the first time. To continuously achieve the high the drug will have to produce a similar dopamine release each time. This requires an ever-increasing amount of the target substance. What may look like a choice to you is a brain-driven compulsion to the addict. Myth #2: Willpower and choices are all that’s needed to get and stay sober. It is more than simply choosing to ignore the urge to use drugs, it’s a recognition that addiction is a CHRONIC and COMPLEX brain disease which is an important first step in eliminating this addiction myth. Addiction creates neurological changes that alter one’s ability to think and act. And while the person may able to verbalize their desire to quit, the brain will convince them otherwise. Recovery from substance abuse requires a process that addresses the whole person. With some tools and support, recovering addicts will be able to better combat physical and psychological dependence on their drug use healthfully and what looks like bad choices will slowly disappear. Myth #3: Addiction only happens to certain kinds of people. Addiction can happen to anyone, no matter their upbringing, what neighborhood they live in, who their parents are, their personality type, or school performance. There are genetic, social, and psychological risk factors that put some people at greater risk—but it has nothing to do with a person’s character. My normal middle-class family lost both a husband and a daughter to the disease. Nobody would have ever guessed that we would be at risk. It can happen to anyone, at anytime and anywhere. Myth #4: People with addiction are hopeless. Many people can and do keep the disease of addiction in remission, most often referred to as recovery. Once treatment begins, someone with a substance use disorder can manage the disease, just as they would any other chronic illness. With the right treatment, recovery is possible for everyone. Myth #5: Treatment for drug addiction should be a one-shot deal. Like many other illnesses, drug addiction is a chronic disorder. To be sure, some people can quit drugs "cold turkey," or they can quit after receiving treatment just one time at a rehab facility. But most of those who abuse drugs require longer-term treatment and, in many instances, repeated treatments. Addiction is not an acute disease you are cured from in 30 days. It is like other diseases that require a lifetime of management to stay healthy. Myth #6: People have to hit rock bottom before they seek help. You don’t wait for the most severe symptoms to happen when you are having heart issues. You go to the ER. Many factors motivate a person to enter and complete substance abuse treatment before they hit "rock bottom." Pressure from family members and employers, as well as their own recognition that they have an unmanageable problem; can be powerful motivating factors. Teenagers under the age of 18 can be admitted to treatment by their parents even if they are not willing participants. Myth #7: Addiction should be treated alone without focusing on other mental health issues. Addiction is a complex brain disease and the same rewiring of the brain is often accompanied by other disorders such as anxiety, depression or PTSD. Addiction treatment should take a holistic approach to identify and manage the other disorders to ensure sustained recovery. Addressing the myths of addiction requires that we educate ourselves, educate those that are struggling with the disease, their families, loved ones, friends and coworkers. Education elevates understanding and empowers people to best support the individual as they go through the long-term process to manage and control the disease. Let’s debunk the myths and face the reality of how we should view the disease and those that are afflicted. InterAct LifeLine’s mission is to help provide that education to clients of treatment programs, to families going through the journey and to anyone else that is struggling to manage the disease. Being informed is a first step in reducing relapse, improving recovery, and not judging people who are trying to return to health and wellness.

family support, improve recovery, reduce relapse

Podcast Transcript: InterAct LifeLine The Case for Family Support Intro Hi, I’m Carolyn Bradfield and I’d to welcome our listeners to our audio journal series from InterAct LifeLine InterAct LifeLine is a technology service focused on helping addictions treatment and collegiate recovery programs keep individuals connected to treatment, to community and to their families to improve recovery and reduce relapse. Today our focus is making the case about the importance of keeping families connected as a critical factor to relapse prevention and recovery. Years ago, my 15-year old daughter Laura became a danger to herself as her drug use escalated out of control. I got professional advice, enrolled her in a wilderness therapy program, followed by a long-term commitment to a therapeutic boarding school. Right after enrollment in the school, 20 families gather for our orientation. It took us 4 hours to go around the room, introduce ourselves and share why are child had enrolled. The room was full of emotion. We were all heartbroken that we had failed to keep our child safe, that they were using drugs, and had to be stabilized in wilderness. As I thought about how we could have been more prepared and less traumatized, it became clear that none of us had received any family support or guidance during the wilderness programs. We were totally unprepared emotionally to leave our child in the hands of others to finish out their high school experience. That insight led me to create Phoenix Outdoor, a licensed adolescent wilderness program in North Carolina. The first order of business was to create a family support program that soon became the gold standard in the industry and later incorporated into most wilderness therapy programs. I’d like to share why family programs are critical when it comes to supporting a loved one who is either in treatment or managing their recovery process. Families are undereducated about addiction It’s very easy to focus on the behaviors that have disrupted your family life. From my own experience, I was angry and frustrated when Laura snuck out, took the car on a joy ride, didn’t show up for school, and began to steal things. I knew she was using drugs, but had no idea that her drug use had initiated the onset of the disease of addiction. My situation repeats itself in most families. We get angry, think that our loved one has more control over their actions than they do, and fail to understand the science behind this brain disease. Family support programs should provide an education on the condition so families better understand how it develops, progresses and can be treated. Families are traumatized by the experience. There is nothing worse than the fear you feel when your child is missing, is putting themselves in harm’s way, or is threatening you. I experienced many sleepless nights when Laura was unaccounted for, knowing she was with a dangerous crowd, and not knowing how to find her. Add to that the shame that I felt when my friends talked about the accomplishments of their children knowing that my child may not make it through high school or even make it home at night. Being traumatized lowers a family’s ability to understand the situation, know how to make good, rational decisions in support of their loved one who is struggling and how they can take care of themselves. A family support program gives them an opportunity to share experiences with other families who are struggling, get counseling and develop a way to move past the trauma. Decision making has become much more difficult I shared that it took 4 hours for 20 families to introduce ourselves through our tears and sadness of sending our children away in order to keep themselves. Without a family support program to help guide us none of us were really prepared to make such an important decision. We didn’t have the support to explore whether our child come home under different circumstances, if a shorter-term stay would have worked, or what other options we had in front of us. The bottom line is that in order to make good decisions on behalf of your loved one or with your loved one, having family support to guide that process is critical. The family system may not be functioning well Having an addicted family member can weaken or destroy even the most healthy of family systems, but in one that is already weak, dealing with addiction can be catastrophic to the family. In my own case, I was divorced, newly remarried, starting a new job where I traveled and dealing with raising my two teenagers without the involvement of their father. When Laura became compromised, it not only put my marriage at risk, but made it very difficult on my teenage son, my parents and other family members who stepped in to help. Had we worked on our family system, changing the way we managed our communication, structure and accountability for Laura, and helped her understand and manage her disease, the family system would have functioned much better. Create an environment for recovery Someone who has undergone treatment for addiction may very well either return to live at home or reconnect with their family. Families who have gone through and continue to go through a family support program learn the do’s and don'ts about how to support their loved one so they create an environment that supports recovery. They learn how to hold that person accountable without blame. They learn how to communicate openly about what they struggle with. They better understand wellness strategies and how to implement them for the entire family. Incorporating the family into treatment and into the recovery process does not begin and end with a 1-day visit to a treatment program or the occasional Al-Anon meeting. It requires on-going education to understand the disease and how to treat it. Families need to get healthy, move past the anger and trauma, and become good decision makers for themselves and sometimes for their family member. They need to stay connected to others in their situation for support, strategies, and guidance. Without family support, it’s much harder for the addict to stay in recovery, begin to regain a sense of who they were before substance use, and to reconnect to the family. InterAct LifeLine is dedicated to helping improve recovery and reduce relapse through our technology services used by collegiate recovery and treatment programs. A key component of our programming is family education, family support, and an automated way to help programs keep families connected. I’m Carolyn Bradfield and you’ve been listening to the InterAct LifeLine audio journal.

Addiction, Mental Health, program, Recovery, remissiioin, Treatment

Podcast Transcript: InterAct LifeLine Recovery or Remission? Intro We’d like to welcome our listeners to our audio journal series. I’m Carolyn Bradfield, CEO of InterAct LifeLine, a technology service focused on helping addictions treatment and collegiate recovery programs keep individuals connected to treatment, to community and to their families to improve recovery and reduce relapse. Audio Journal September was National Recovery Month, created by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration otherwise known as SAMHSA. Held every September the focus is to educate people that substance use treatment and mental health services can enable those with mental and substance use disorders to live healthy and rewarding lives. I’d like to dig into addiction and the concept of recovery in the way we treat people that are struggling with the disease. The first thing we need to define is the type of disease that addiction represents. When a person develops the disease, the symptoms are often acute, severe and obvious. People experience a loss of control over choices, cravings and compulsive using, and physical withdrawal if they don’t maintain substance use. There are many other conditions that you would recognize that also have acute symptoms. You pass out from diabetes, can’t breathe during an asthma attack, or experience chest pains during a heart attack. The symptoms appear rapidly but can be treated if caught in time averting a tragic outcome. However, diabetes, asthma and heart disease don’t just go away after a stay in the hospital. They are chronic conditions that stay with you and require on-going treatment and maintenance to keep them in check. In other words, people with those diseases can live healthy and productive lives as long as they take steps to manage their disease, even if the condition is always present. Addiction must be thought of in the same category, a chronic disease, yet when we treat the symptoms in rehab, reversing those acute symptoms we pronounce the individual “recovered” or in recovery. I often wonder if the better term for what we’ve accomplished is that we put the individual into remission? Let’s explore the difference in the two terms. Recovery, in the medical sense, means that the person has all signs of the disease gone and there is a complete return to health. You break a bone, set it, and now your arm is as good as new. You experience appendicitis, get your appendix removed, and the symptoms never return. We tag those with the disease of addiction as “recovered” or “in recovery” if they complete treatment and are no longer using. But perhaps the better way to think about it is that the disease is in remission. A person with the disease has a brain with a predisposition to use again if it is triggered with stress, anxiety, poor health habits and temptations in their environment. They are not really recovered, but rather living healthy lives because they are treating their chronic condition that is now in remission. Recovery, the term used by SAMHSA and so many others, does not mean that you are disease free. But it does not mean that if you complete rehab, you can go out into the world, return to the habits that brought the onset of the disease and stay healthy. Recovery should mean that you craft a long-term plan to stay in remission that includes a health and wellness strategy that keeps you asymptomatic. Unfortunately, we continue to treat addiction as an acute disease, manage the symptoms, but fail to have a longer-term plan to stay healthy. That is why relapse rates, according to SAMHSA, are in the 85% range in the first year following acute treatment. If this were any other disease that could be put into remission, an 85% rate of having the acute symptoms return so quickly after expensive treatment would be totally unacceptable. Imagine going to your dentist having crown, only to tell you to expect that it will fall out in a month or so, you would never accept that. Here are some thoughts on how to truly put the disease into remission vs. simply “recover” only to need acute treatment again. #1 Stay connected to treatment longer Studies show that individuals who maintain a connection with the program that treated them for the acute symptoms, aka rehab, for 6 consecutive months following treatment dramatically reduce the rate of relapse. You don’t have to occupy a bed in a rehab facility to continue treatment. There are on-going after-care options through intensive outpatient programs, addictions therapists and other aftercare solutions that offer structure, accountability, and create new habits to promote health and wellness. #2 Get connected to a community There is nothing that compares to having a community of others who are committed to managing their disease in a healthy way. Community allows one to share strategies, get support to overcome struggles, and focus on a lifestyle that is free from substances. Communities can be physical through meetings or virtual through online support groups. Take collegiate recovery communities as an example. According to the Association for Recovery in Higher Education, individuals who join a collegiate recovery community on campus have a higher GPA, higher graduation rate, and lower relapse rate. Students stay connected to each other, to a shared experience, and to a shared strategy to maintain wellness. #3 Stay connected or reconnect to family Most families are undereducated about the disease of addiction. They don’t understand the malfunctioning of the brain and the irresistible urges to misuse substances, chalking up the condition as a moral failure vs. the disease that it really is. Connecting to an educated family ready to support the individual with the disease provides structure, understanding, support and help to craft a strategy to stay in remission. Let’s celebrate those that are committed to overcoming their disease, recovering from the acute symptoms and maintaining a plan to keep the disease in remission so they can continue to live a healthy and productive life. InterAct LifeLine is here to make a difference in how people manage the disease of addiction, reducing the rate of relapse and improving the recovery process. We offer treatment and collegiate recovery programs a technology service to keep individuals connected to treatment, to support communities and to families. This is Carolyn Bradfield and you’ve been listening to our audio journal from InterAct LifeLine.

Addiction, Alcohol, Drugs, Mental Health, Mental Illness, Substance Abuse

Substance Misuse & Mental Health Disorders are ConnectedAccording to NIDA, "Many individuals who develop substance use disorders (SUD) are also diagnosed with mental disorders, and vice versa. Multiple national population surveys have found that about half of those who experience a mental illness during their lives will also experience a substance use disorder and vice versa. Although there are fewer studies on comorbidity among youth, research suggests that adolescents with substance use disorders also have high rates of co-occurring mental illness; over 60 percent of adolescents in community-based substance use disorder treatment programs also meet diagnostic criteria for another mental illness."This article explains the comorbidity between substance use disorders and mental illness. Read the Article

In an increasingly digital world, it's no surprise that healthcare services have also taken a technological turn. One of the most prominent shifts is the rise of virtual care, especially in mental health and addiction treatment. Virtual care platforms have revolutionized the way we approach these issues, providing myriad benefits that address many traditional barriers to care. Exploring the Multifaceted Advantages of Virtual Care in Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Breaking Down Barriers Virtual care eliminates many obstacles that patients often face when seeking traditional mental health and addiction treatment. A study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) suggests that virtual care provides similar or even better outcomes compared to in-person therapies.One significant hurdle that virtual care overcomes is stigma. Many individuals hesitate to seek help due to fear of societal judgment. By offering greater discretion for patients, virtual care ensures that individuals can access the help they need privately and confidently.Another barrier that virtual care tackles is geographical distance. Not everyone lives within easy reach of a healthcare facility or specialist. Virtual care makes it possible for individuals living in remote areas to access high-quality mental health and addiction treatment services. Affordability and Accessibility Virtual care also addresses the issue of affordability. Traditional therapy and addiction treatments can be costly, deterring many from pursuing the help they need. However, online therapy platforms offer more affordable options, making treatment more accessible to a larger population.Furthermore, virtual care ensures constant accessibility. Many virtual care platforms provide 24/7 monitoring and mental healthcare, allowing patients to reach out whenever they require assistance. This instant access to necessary resources is invaluable for individuals dealing with mental health issues or addiction. Personalized and Consistent Care Virtual care is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It allows for personalized care, tailored to each patient's unique needs. This aspect is crucial in treating mental health conditions and addictions, as every individual’s journey is different.Consistency is another advantage of virtual care. Regular check-ins and therapy sessions are essential for recovery. With virtual care, patients can maintain consistent contact with their healthcare providers, ensuring they stay on track with their treatment plan. Leveraging Virtual Care To fully benefit from virtual care, individuals should ensure they have a stable internet connection and a private space for their online sessions. It's also crucial to research and choose a reputable virtual care platform that aligns with one's specific needs.Several credible platforms offer virtual care services, such as Talkspace, BetterHelp, and Headspace. These platforms have qualified professionals who provide a range of services, from cognitive-behavioral therapy to mindfulness meditation. Conclusion Virtual care offers a promising solution to the challenges faced in mental health and addiction treatment. It breaks down traditional barriers, offers affordability and accessibility, and provides personalized and consistent care. As technology continues to advance, we can expect virtual care to become an even more integral part of our healthcare system. References: : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...: https://mountainside.com/blog/...: https://www.marylandrecovery.c...: https://apn.com/resources/uniq...: https://headlandsats.com/telem...: https://www.adsc.com/blog/the-... If you or someone you know is navigating the complexities of mental health issues or addiction, Interact Lifeline is here to help. We are committed to providing easily accessible, effective, and affordable treatment options. Don't let geographical constraints or societal stigma deter you from seeking the help you deserve. Reach out to us for more information about our digital mental health and addiction treatment services. Your path to recovery can start today. Connect with us at Interact Lifeline, and let's take the first step towards healing together. Get in Touch Get Started with InterAct LifeLine InterAct connects individuals to treatment, supportcommunities & families to improve recovery. Get in Touch

Powerful, Potent, Deadly From the national organization that organized May 9, 2023 Fentanyl Awareness Day, "Illicitly manufactured fentanyl and its dangers, while well-documented by health professionals and law enforcement, are largely unknown to the general population and even more so to its most vulnerable population: youth and young adults. According to the CDC, fentanyl is involved in more deaths of Americans under 50 than any other cause of death, including heart disease, cancer, and all other accidents. Among teenagers, overdose deaths linked to synthetic opioids like fentanyl tripled in the past two years, yet 73% have never heard of fake prescription pills being made with fentanyl." Learn the Facts It's Killing Young People Fentanyl is involved in more deaths of Americans under 50 than any other cause of death, including heart disease, cancer, and all other accidents. Young People Are Not Informed Among teenagers, overdose deaths linked to synthetic opioids like fentanyl tripled in the past two years, yet 73% have never heard of fake prescription pills being made with fentanyl." Fentanyl Is a Powerful & Deadly Synthetic Opioid Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. It isa major contributor to fatal and nonfatal overdoses in the U.S.(CDC) Overdose Deaths are Skyrocketing 250 Fentanyl Overdose Deaths Each DayImagine a jumbo jet crashing each day killing everyone on board.  Now you see the number of people that die daily because they made a mistake and were poisoned by fentanyl. Know the Facts It is important for people to know about the risks of fentanyl because it is a highly potent synthetic opioid that is extremely dangerous. Fentanyl is estimated to be 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and even a small amount can cause an overdose or death. Fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs, such as heroin or cocaine, and can be difficult to detect. It is also sometimes sold as counterfeit pills or mixed into other drugs without the user's knowledge. Due to the potency of fentanyl and its prevalence in the illicit drug market, it has become a leading cause of drug overdose deaths in many countries, including the United States and Canada. Education and awareness about the risks of fentanyl are crucial in preventing overdose deaths and reducing the harm associated with drug use. LifeLine Connect Building technology to use data from wearables to detect overdose, alert others and send help to prevent fentanyl overdose deaths. Learn More

Explainer Video from British Columbia For anyone that is unfamiliar with fentanyl, this is a great video from Vancouver, Canada that reviews what the drug is, who is at risk and why is it so deadly. Fentanyl was detected in 80% of overdose deaths in British Columbia in 2017 and that statistic is now true for overdose deaths in the United States.Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

Report from ABC NewsThis synthetic opioid, often mixed with heroin, is so toxic that people easily overdose and drug agents don special suits to handle it.Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

DEA warns about fentanyl being sold to kids Federal officials are sounding the alarm over the dangers of fentanyl pills .Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

The Crisis WorsensLaw enforcement, students and parents present dire warnings as the nation continues to see a rise in fentanyl overdose deaths.Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

Easy to Buy Counterfeit Pills Laced with Fentanyl on Social MediaFatal overdoses linked to the synthetic opioid fentanyl have been steadily climbing in the United States. "CBS Evening News" managing editor and anchor Norah O'Donnell reports on how teens are buying the drug on social media. Then Desilynn Smith, the clinical supervisor with Gateway to Change rehabilitation center, joins CBS News' Vladimir Duthiers to discuss the loss of her husband to a fentanyl overdose and her work to prevent drug-related deaths in her community.Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

A Deadly CombinationPublic health officials revealed Thursday that xylazine, a non-opioid veterinary tranquilizer, has been discovered in the bloodstreams of four fatal fentanyl overdose victims. Kelsi Thorud reports. Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

This is Your Brain on FentanylFentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid — a painkiller similar to morphine. But its recreational use is becoming a public health crisis and increasing problem for law enforcement across the country. Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

More than 100,000 people in the U.S. died of drug overdoses in 2021SAN ANTONIO – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the pharmaceutical fentanyl is a synthetic opioid approved for treating severe pain, typically advanced cancer pain. Fentanyl is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and is prescribed as transdermal patches or lozenges. The CDC says the most recent cases of fentanyl-related harm, overdose, and death in the U.S. are linked to illegally made fentanyl. Overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids other than methadone, which includes fentanyl and fentanyl analogs, increased by over 56% from 2019 to 2020, according to the CDC.Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

Tiffany Iler, Ohio State Student Dead at 21Tiffany Iler, 21, was a student at the Ohio State University. She died in May as a result of fentanyl intoxication.Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

Isaiah Dies From Fentanyl at Age 15A Phoenix mother is opening open about the heartbreaking loss of her 15-year-old son because of an overdose and she said she found out on Snapchat he had taken a pill.Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

One Pill Killed HerDrug overdoses killed more than 107,000 people in the U.S. in 2021. Synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl, were involved in the majority of those deaths.Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

The Faces of Fentanyl from TampaThe overdose crisis is getting worse and the drug, fentanyl, is a big reason why. It's cheap, extremely addictive and 100 times stronger than morphine. 10 Tampa Bay hosted a discussion with a group of people who lost loved ones due to an overdose. None of them knew the drugs they bought were laced with fentanyl.Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

17-Year Old Trining Dies from Fentanyl OverdoseChrisa Cornejo is mourning the death of her 17-year-old daughter, Trinity Cornejo. Cornejo says Trinity had come home after a party with friends on Sept. 30 and was later found unresponsive by Trinity's aunt. Cornejo says she believes this was her daughter's first time trying drugs. She says she hopes her daughter's death isn't in vain and others learn from this. "I would send her your articles about these issues, and these deaths, and I thought she understood and I thought she would never take that risk, but teenagers are curious and dealing with a lot of pressure," Cornejo said. Cornejo says she believes drug dealers are using social media to connect with teens. She has a message for parents."These dealers deliver substances of the teen's choice. They come in masks when they come in their cars," Cornejo said. "They either know what they're doing and don't want to get caught, or don't know what they're doing and don't care. Either way it's just drugs are no longer drugs. What you think you're getting is most likely laced with something else."Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

17 Year Old High School Athlete Dead from FentanylClassmates are mourning the death of a promising Woodland Hills student-athlete, who died of fentanyl poisoning last week. El Camino Charter High School baseball player Cade Kitchen is being remembered as a kind, easygoing 17-year-old who was dedicated to his team. Even students that didn’t know him personally are devastated by the news, and cannot believe that the fentanyl crisis hit their community. Parents are increasingly concerned. "It’s heartbreaking for the family. It’s heartbreaking for the students, it’s a wake-up call," said Dean Messerman, whose son is a junior at the school.Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

The Story of Kevin McConvillen Part 1, Episode 1 of “Fighting Fentanyl: The Crisis,” we introduce Hays CISD audiences to the local fentanyl crisis in our community. It opens powerfully with the tragic story of Kevin McConville who would have been a senior at Lehman High School, Class of 2023. However, just two weeks before the start of his senior year, he died from a suspected fentanyl overdose - never knowing it was fentanyl he took. Additionally, this video showcases first responders and their work on the front lines.Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

A Powerful Video from the CDCFentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl is being added to other drugs because of its extreme potency, which makes drugs cheaper, more powerful, more addictive, and more dangerous. Drugs may contain deadly levels of fentanyl, and you wouldn’t be able to see it, taste it, or smell it. However, fentanyl test strips are a simple, inexpensive, and effective way to test drugs for fentanyl and help prevent overdose. Learn more about the dangers of fentanyl and ways to protect yourself at cdc.gov/stopoverdose/fentanyl.Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

A Brush with Death With thousands of lives cut short by tainted drugs, Sofia Christoff said she considers herself one of the lucky ones. However, she still bears the weight of her brush with death. Help is on the Way! InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!) Visit LifeLine Connect

Speaking Up in an Effort to Save LivesOne woman who lost her son to an overdose is speaking out in an effort to save lives. She said he wasn't a drug user, and he took what he thought was Percocet, but it ended up being fentanyl.Help is on the Way!InterAct LifeLIne is developing a mobile solution that utilizes data from smart watches and fitness trackers to detect leading indicators of overdose, alert others and send help. (Coming Soon!)Visit LifeLine Connect

Powerful, Potent, Profitable This April, over 3,000 people gathered in Atlanta from across the country, as they have done for the past 12 years, to focus on how to mitigate the impact that illegal drugs have had on our society. We’ve all heard about the Opioid Crisis, but over the last few years, fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, has been the game changer that has been an inflection point to make the Opioid Crisis more deadly than it’s ever been. Many of the sessions were focused on harm reduction strategies like the distribution of Narcan, the drug to reverse overdose, prevention strategies to raise people’s awareness of the risks, or legal strategies to toughen the penalties for distributing the drug. One of the more enlightening sessions came from the DEA, Drug Enforcement Agency, who took us through an explanation of the “business of fentanyl”. Fentanyl is Lucrative for the Drug Cartels What is fentanyl? For those of you who may not be familiar with the drug, it’s a synthetic opioid and about 50 times more powerful than heroin and 100 times more powerful that morphine. It’s added to counterfeit Adderall or Xanax , laced into heroin, added to cocaine and even to put gummies. And if added in the wrong quantities, which it often is, then a very small amount of the drug almost always leads to a fatal overdose.  According to the DEA, 6 of 10 counterfeit pills they confiscate contain a lethal dose of fentanyl. Why do the cartels love it? Drug cartels don’t get out of bed in the morning unless they can make a profit. And fentanyl is highly profitable. Let’s think about what it takes to produce other drugs and how this is different for fentanyl. If you want to produce heroin, cocaine, or marijuana, you must start by growing a plant. That takes land, farming, harvesting and processing and you could lose your crop to weather, to your fields being destroyed or to a lack of local labor. Now contrast that with how fentanyl is produced. There are no plants involved, no growing seasons and no risk that drug enforcement will find and destroy your fields. It’s synthetic, made in a lab or even in your kitchen and the ingredients are dirt cheap. The cartels get fentanyl from China, then use the powder to mix into other street drugs like heroin, cocaine or counterfeit pills.Deep Dive with PBS News Hour So why juice up other drugs with fentanyl? Fentanyl is much more potent that heroin, by about 50 times, and it’s much more addictive. Add fentanyl to another drug and the person gets a new kind of high and a more powerful addiction to the substance. Cartels need their customers to keep coming back for more and a much more addictive substance ensures they will keep buying. Why is fentanyl easier to smuggle? You’ve seen video and news reports when drug enforcement confiscate heroin that they’ve seized at the border, transported by sea, or trucked in. Those big bales take up a lot of space and the cartel had to go to significant effort to conceal them. Fentanyl, as a stand-alone substance, before it is ever mixed into another drug comes in much smaller quantities because of its potency. That means it’s easier to transport, easier to hide and easier to get into the country. The DEA shared that there is already enough fentanyl in the United States to kill every man, woman and child 5 times over. How do you stop the fentanyl money machine? Just like any business, cartels depend on repeat customers who are motivated to use a fentanyl laced product, get hooked on its powerful addictive qualities, and keep coming back for more. If demand is cut because people become aware of the elevated and deadly overdose risk, we just might reduce the number of repeat customers, reduce profit and send the cartels back to their more traditional, but less deadly drug trade. Make it less lucrative for the cartels If fentanyl took off because it was a lucrative business decision for the cartels, we need to find ways to make it less lucrative by cutting the supply from China, making it harder to transport to the customer, and decreasing the number of repeat buyers of contaminated products. If those things happen, there will be a pivot to something else by the cartels with the hope that their next business venture doesn’t keep killing the customers that drive their profits. LifeLine Connect Building technology to use data from wearables to detect overdose, alert others and send help to prevent fentanyl overdose deaths. Learn More

I took a break today at lunch and turned on the Netflix 3-part series, The Murdaugh Murders, a Southern Scandal. You'd have to be living under a rock not to be inundated with the sensational trial of Alex Murdaugh, a prominent South Carolina attorney, now on trial for the murder of his wife Maggie and son Paul.But if all you takeaway from this sensationalized story is a "who dun it" crime, then you are missing a tragic tale of what happens when you have a family history of underage drinking, substance misuse and addiction that decimated this family and tragically affected the people around them.I encourage you to watch the series, but pay particular attention to how it all started with Paul Murdaugh in Episode 1 and what can be learned from their family tragedy that applies to millions of other families. Image from fitsnews.com Paul Murdaugh started drinking at a very young age In the Netflix documentary, episode 1chronicles how Paul drank daily and to excess.  According to Morgan Doughty, Paul’s ex-girlfriend, Paul drank alcohol almost every day as a teenager, often becoming grossly intoxicated.  In the documentary, Morgan details the Murdaugh family holidays, get togethers and vacations where underage drinking was an accepted part of their family dynamics. So was Paul on the way to becoming an alcoholic and an addict?  The statistics on that are quite frightening.  The adolescent brain continues to form until about the age of 26 and for many adolescents, excessive abuse of alcohol or substances has the potential to "rewire" the brain to pursue those substances in the face of increasingly negative consequences.  From everything I see, Paul was likely in the throws of addiction before he even left high school. Evidence Photo They all knew and turned a blind eye. The Murdaugh family made it easier for Paul and his friends to get alcohol and engage in some heavy partying in high school.  Morgan Doughty said his parents handed over their credit card for Paul to buy alcohol and alternatively would even give Paul alcohol to party with his friends  Paul's older brother and parents knew he was using his brother's ID to buy liquor and beer.And Paul wasn't just drinking, he was blitzed.  There are videos showing him bombed on boat trips, at parties, and at his house in plain view of his parents who often joined in the festivities with him.   Evidence Photo Paul's reckless behavior, fueled by alcohol, lead to tragedy One tragic night, 3 teenage couples got together for a ride in Paul's boat to an oyster roast.  Heavy drinking began early and accelerated as the teenagers attended the party and ended up at a bar.  Before they even left the oyster roast, everyone was concerned that Paul, the driver of the boat, was blitzed, but they got in the boat anyway to go home. The boat crashed into a bridge near Parris Island, sending  passengers flying overboard and killing Mallory Beach, the girlfriend of one of Paul's best friends.Paul allegedly used a credit card belonging to his mother, and an ID belonging to his brother Buster to purchase alcohol from a convenience store earlier that day. Substance misuse and addiction seems to run in the Murdaugh family According to reports on CNN, Alex Murdaugh's best friend testified that Murdaugh told him that he had been addicted to opioids for 20 years, potentially driving him to steal money from his law firm to feed his expensive daily habit.  If Alex's admitted addiction to opioids pans out to be true, it certainly made it more likely that Paul might follow in his footsteps.Addiction runs in families.  The American Addiction Centers Resource (AACR) states that first-degree relatives of someone with a history of addiction are between 4 to 8 times more likely to develop problems with addiction themselves when compared to those who do not have a family member with an addiction.  Couple a genetic predisposition to addiction along with underage drinking and you have a deadly combination that stacked the deck against Paul. A broken community system failed Paul and contributed to the tragedy The officers did not offer Paul Murdaugh a field sobriety test when they responded to the deadly boat crash, even though he was visibly drunk.  Although Paul was charged with two counts of boating under the influence, his family helped him easily bond out and while awaiting trial the state did not restrict him from drinking alcohol or driving a boat.  Paul's blood alcohol tests came back showing he was 3 times over the legal limit, yet even after the accident, it appears nobody suggested that he get help. The Net Out South Carolina Attorney General's OfficeWe are not here to debate whether Alex killed Paul and his mother Maggie.  Our job is to look at what lead up to Paul's alcohol abuse and the tragic death of his friend Mallory Beach.  Paul drank heavily as a kid, did so at home and with the blessing of his parents, had his drinking funded by his parents' credit card, and was observed many times by his family and friends being grossly intoxicated.For any parent that thinks its cool to party with their teenagers or their friends, let this be a lesson.  You never know which kid will become addicted, what they will do when they are blitzed out of their mind, and the unintended consequences and tragedies that may result.  Paul Murdaugh, if given the help he needed for his compulsive drinking, might still be alive today and his friend Mallory might be attending college instead of being a statistic.

Addiction, Alcohol, Drugs, Mental Health, Ptsd, Substance Abuse, veterans

From the infographic: 27% of Veterans in VA care diagnosed with PTSD also have substance use disorder(SUD)

adolescent, adulthood, adulting, College, life, parent, Skills

According to College Parents of America, "College is a time where young adults go off into the “real world” and begin to become adults. There are many skills that we assume these young adults have, but they may not know how to apply them in their own environment. These skills may seem obvious to us, but in order to set our students up for success, we need to make sure they are prepared."This article lists a number of important life skills every young adult should have before going to college. Read the full article

Addiction, meditation, Mindfulness, practice, Recovery, Strategy

The Center for Mindful Psychotherapy describes mindfulness as "a state of being in the present moment. We release the regrets of the past and we take a break from our fears about the future. Life unfolds in the here and now and mindfulness helps us accept and understand this."Mindfulness has become a go to treatment for all kinds of addiction including addictions to drugs, sex, alcohol, gambling, food, internet, and more. This article gives 7 reasons why mindfulness is an effective treatment for addiction recovery. Read the full article

Addiction, Drugs, epidemic, Fentanyl, Heroin, opioid, Overdose, Science

According to The Mayo Clinic, "Anyone who takes opioids is at risk of developing addiction. Your personal history and the length of time you use opioids play a role, but it's impossible to predict who's vulnerable to eventual dependence on and abuse of these drugs. Legal or illegal, stolen and shared, these drugs are responsible for the majority of overdose deaths in the U.S. today."This article discusses how even short-term pain relief can lead to life threatening problems.Read the full article

Emotion, emotional health, Health, Mental Health, self care

According to familydoctor.org, "Emotional health is an important part of your life. It allows you to realize your full potential. You can work productively and cope with the stresses of everyday life. It helps you work with other people and contribute to society. It also affects your physical health. Research shows a link between an upbeat mental state and physical signs of good health. These include lower blood pressure, reduced risk of heart disease, and a healthier weight."This article discusses the importance of maintaining good emotional health. Read the full article

Addiction, Alcohol, codependency, Drugs, Recovery, Shame

According to Darlene Lancer, "Shame is so painful to the psyche that most people will do anything to avoid it, even though it’s a natural emotion that everyone has. It’s a physiologic response of the autonomic nervous system. You might blush, have a rapid heartbeat, break into a sweat, freeze, hang your head, slump your shoulders, avoid eye contact, withdraw, even get dizzy or nauseous."This article discusses how shame can lead to addiction and is the core feeling that leads to many other codependents' symptoms.Read the full article

Addiction, holidays, Recovery, Sobriety, Thanksgiving

"I first tried to quit drinking on November 11, 1995. By Thanksgiving of that year, I was clean, but I was scared to death of facing a holiday dinner without a drink. I remember standing by the bar in my grandmother’s house, downing Diet Coke in long gulps. I drank an entire case of Diet Coke during the evening, but I stayed sober. Now, I have more tools to maintain my recovery during the holidays."Here are some helpful tips for having a happy Thanksgiving while remaining drug or alcohol free. Read the full article

Tragedy in Colorado from Fentanyl OverdosesLast February, a group of friends in a Denver suburb took cocaine, but five of them died. Colorado detectives determined it was laced with a deadly amount of synthetic fentanyl. Efforts to find out who was responsible for this mass overdose - and prosecuting them - highlighted another challenge in the nation’s fentanyl drug crisis.

The Hidden Dangers of Fentanyl from ABC NightlineLaw enforcement, students and parents present dire warnings as the nation continues to see a rise in fentanyl overdose deaths.

Overview of the Opioid Crisis from PBS News HourFebruary 9, 2022"The opioid overdose crisis that killed more than 100,000 Americans in a year is being called one of the most pressing national security and public health challenges facing the U.S. A majority of the overdoses are driven by the potent synthetic opioid fentanyl. Maryland Rep. David Trone, co-chair of the federal Commission on Combating Synthetic Opioid Trafficking, joins William Brangham to discuss."

Christmas, Family, holidays, Recovery, Thanksgiving

According to Peter Gaumond,"This time each year can be stressful for anyone, but the holidays present a special challenge for people recovering from an addiction. Those in long-term recovery typically are adept at navigating the minefield of temptation at holiday social gatherings. But many of those in their first year of recovery, their friends, and family members wonder how best to celebrate the holidays safely, comfortably, and joyously."Read this article to learn how to help those in recovery get through the holidays.Read the full article

Addiction, holidays, insights, Recovery, Stress

According to Elizabeth Brico,"Holidays are notoriously stressful for everyone, and especially so for people newly in addiction recovery (or even people who have been in recovery or remission for a long time). Many people relapse during the holidays—so it’s crucial that you provide extra support to your loved one during this time."Read this article to learn about why holidays can be so stressful for people in addiction recovery, so that you can better understand and help a loved on in recovery.Read the full article

Podcast, relevate

Your browser does not support the audio element. Listen to this powerful episode and learn how one woman turned her own journey of having a child with addiction and unthinkable loss into what would become a lifeline for others.  Carolyn Bradfield shares her and Laura's story on this episode of the Relevate Podcast.   If you've ever loved someone with addiction or fear that is the direction they may be headed, Carolyn shares from her own experience with clarity, knowledge and empathy.  There is so much to learn from her story. You'll also hear of some exciting technology developments, spearheaded by her company InterAct LifeLine, designed to provide a lifeline and layer of protection for those who struggle with addiction. To learn more, visit:  interactlifeline.com Also mentioned in this episode: - Missy Owen's organization, Davis Direction Foundation, founded in memory of her son, Davis - The Connection, an addiction recovery support center in Forsyth County (metro Atlanta) To learn more about the host of the Relevate Podcast, Rena Olsen, click here. Thank you for subscribing and being a supporter of this series!  Please help spread the word by sharing this episode on your social media networks and with others. Listen to more episodes of Relevate here

Addiction, Alcohol, Alcoholism, Disease

In his article Buddy T says,"One of the difficulties in recognizing alcoholism as a disease is it just plain doesn't seem like one. It doesn't look, sound, smell and it certainly doesn't act like a disease. To make matters worse, generally, it denies it exists and resists treatment."This article discusses the neurobiology of alcoholism. Read the full article

Opioid Misuse Hits Rural America Hard"As of March 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noted that drug overdose death rates continue to rise in both rural and urban areas. In five states, California, Connecticut, North Carolina, Vermont, and Virginia, the rate of drug-overdose deaths in rural counties were higher than those in urban counties. In addition, a December 2017 survey by the National Farmers Union and the American Farm Bureau Federation found that as many as 74 percent of farmers have been directly impacted by the opioid crisis."Read the Article