Archive for December, 2008
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The stigma of addiction: cigarettes and lung cancer
It seems that prevailing attitudes towards addicts are still fairly personal and judgmental. Results from a Lung Cancer Stigma Survey published in November 2008 indicate that fifty-nine (59) percent of the general population surveyed said they agreed that lung cancer patients are at least partly to blame for their diagnosis. What stigmas do you carry with you?
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Can ignition interlock devices be a driving hazard?
In the absence of a parole officer, convicted drunk drivers are now taking breathalyzer tests before their car engines will even start…and they are breathing into the dashboard! Ignition interlock devices all over the U.S. require a BAC (blood alcohol consumption) level of .02-.04% before a car will start. But can the “rolling retest” for blood-alcohol levels endanger the lives of drivers and fellow travelers?
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INTERVIEWS with addiction aftercare programs: STAGES
To inaugurate a new interview series, we talk to Cole Watts of STAGES of Recovery in Lubbock, TX a sober living aftercare program targeting college students. STAGES three core concepts of recovery support, education and career development help guide university students in recovery. Can newly recovered university students really achieve sobriety in a college town? See for yourself.
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Caffeine addiction withdrawal: A coffee addict gets off java
Day three of no caffeine and feeling great. This post explores some of the reasons to stop drinking caffeine and some of the early positive effects of kicking a coffee habit. Do we really need to stimulate MORE mental activity in our culture? Do you?
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Are HIV positive addicts and alcoholics treated equally?
In honor of World AIDS Day 2008, we explore the ethical issues surrounding addiction treatment of patients diagnosed with HIV. Are these patients subject to discrimination? How possible is it really to treat ALL addicts equally? We explore if and how clinicians limit contact with HIV+ substance abusers and what we can do about it.
