In late 2004, towards the beginning of 2005, I recognized and realized that social networking and its concepts of getting people together, etc, were a great   idea – before MySpace, Facebook, and other similar sites really became as big as they are today.  I felt that MySpace and Facebook really had no underlying purpose other than to get people together; they were “places for friends” but what else?  That’s when the idea of overcoming addiction using social  networking hit me.

People can be addicted to anything : alcohol, shopping, coffee, working, etc; whatever it was, the site would have it – and if it didn’t have it, people   could add it.  Because of that, and because I figured many people would like to get help but don’t want to actually show up in person for some type of   treatment, people could be in the comfort of their own homes, finding out more information about recovery all while being as public or as private as they   like.  And for those that just wanted to join “another social network” or be part of something else, they could become a member, specify their addiction(s)   and then all of a sudden, they’re taking steps to curb the addictions they have just by talking.

Beating Addiction’s goal is to help people overcome addiction.  For many that is a very tough goal so, at the bare minimum, our mission is to get people   interested in some sort of recovery and they can do that by casually speaking with each other to determine what helped and didn’t help someone in their   efforts of recovery – and low and behold, they’ve begun taking small steps toward recovery.  Moneywise, we’re self-funded.

2. How is the site managed?

The social network aspect of the site is managed, generally, by three types of users.  The management level consists of system administrators, site   administrators, and site moderators.  They all have and play different roles in managing the site.

3. What demographic of people are you trying to reach today, and how might that change going forward?

We’re trying to reach anyone that has an addiction to anything.  In the USA alone, recent reports show about 10 million people have an addiction to something while only about 2.5 million acknowledge that they have one.  As of now, country-wise, I would say our current demographic is mainly American because we   don’t have the manpower or the resources to take it to an international level – the website isn’t localized for different countries either so that’ll take a   while too to prepare and release.  Since the website is in BETA mode and we’re testing all the features with a wider audience, I’m sure many things may and will change when moving forward.  Does that include the demographic?  Possibly.  We know that the younger generation of people are, generally, more tech savvy so there’s a lot of variables in play that need to be and will be considered when taking the site to the next level and, as you put it, going forward.

4. Do you search for partners, or are you focused on being a self-reliant program?

We’d like to search for partners however our manpower is currently limited so we are strategically spending our time on the things that are the most   important and that is finishing the product.  Corporate-partner wise, we’d like to bring some industry veterans on board so we can take the website to the   next level and beyond. Business-partner wise, we’d like to bring individual professionals, recovery facilities, and more to the site so that users may have   access to more professional and proven methods of recovery (already in the works).

5. What new programs or features do you plan for the coming months/years that we should know about?

All the sections of the site that say coming soon!  There are only a few parts that say that but some are a bit in-depth in terms of features and integrated  functionality.  Those sections include: recovery programs, facilities, donations, an affiliate program, and ones that we haven’t thought of yet (for example,   after receiving feedback from a member or visitor about an idea, etc).

©2009 addictionblog.org. All Rights Reserved.

(Please comment to extend this list. It is by no means exhaustive)

1. A never-ending list of “things to do”
2. Lack of a social life
3. 60+ hours per week spent working, or thinking about work
4. Glazed, lackluster eyes
5. Shallow, short breathing pattern

TREATMENT GUIDELINES FOR A WORK ADDICT

1. Daily meditation

This is crucial for separating WHO YOU ARE from WHAT YOU DO. When we always identify with what we do, we create a mistruth for ourselves in our conscious thinking. Sit quietly and look inside. Any method will do. Just choose one and keep digging.

2. 30 minutes of daily exercise

The National …. states in their adult exercise guideline (hyperlink) that “quote”

3. Laugh on purpose

If you are an addict and if you are addicted to work, you must take the time to consciously lighten up and loosen up. Schedule time with people who make you laugh, download your favorite TV shows or rent comedy films. sometimes, laughter is the best medicine.

4. Get enough rest

If you’re chronically overworked, you are less efficient. The Germans figured this out and have realistic standards for their workforce…maximize your time to accomplish 75% of your work, invest 25% of your time at work in personal interest and be sure to take lots of time OFF! Work smarter instead of longer.

5. Spend time with people who do not understand your work

This will force you to actually talk about OTHER THINGS. And socializing with people who are NOT in your line of work will may help you develop more interests.

6. Set a stopping time

And keep it. Don’t give in to the feeling that everything is crucial. Even Mahatma Ghandhi said, “Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it.” so, set a stopping time each day and turn off your work. Walk away and don’t look back.

FEEDBACK FROM OTHER WORKAHOLICS

Do you have any other ideas to share? And/Or stories about your own personal work addiction? Please comment with your personal tales, practices and ideas.

©2009 addictionblog.org. All Rights Reserved.

A.A. is not aligned with any sect, denomination, politics, organization or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy; neither endorses nor opposes any causes.

Problems exist intrinsically by trying to evaluate A.A.  As early as 1976 researchers noted the difficulty in scientifically tracking effectiveness and critiqued the over-simplification of cross-sectional or longitudinal studies as measures of 12 step effectiveness.  (British Journal of Psychiatry ).   Another problem that exists in trying to predict and measure outcome behaviors of alcoholism treatment is that A.A. does not exist in a vacuum but is used as a modern form of treatment in combination with other interventions. Medication, psychiatric counseling and out-patient addiction treatment to name a few.

But a recent 2006 study has keenly summarized he current situation: after 70+ years since the birth of the organization, we still DON’T KNOW how effective A.A. is.   The Italian Agency of Public Health reviewed eight clinical trials for alcoholism involving over 3000 participants and found that, “No experimental studies unequivocally demonstrated the effectiveness of AA or Twelve Step Facilitation approaches for reducing alcohol dependence or problems” (Cochrane Review on Alcoholics Anonymous effectiveness); this leaves little hope of a clear picture.  Unless A.A. is ready to take its own inventory…and let the world know about it.

What is bothersome to me is not so much the lack of data on A.A., but A.A.’s disinterest in the topic.  I get the sense that the General Service Office wouldn’t touch the issue with a ten foot pole.  But as a professional marketer, I must object.  This does a great disservice to potential members.  Instead of offering facts, the organization offers promises.  Without vital information, new members go on faith alone…and the example of a handful of successful candidates who MIGHT represent 1-2-3% of those who attempt the program.  Who really knows?

This is on par with any religion.

But even without scientific statistics, A.A. members co-exist in a space of steady growth.  And who am I to say what will work for a loose body of people who come together whose primary purpose it to stay sober?  What do you think?  Should A.A. take stock?  Would this do more harm than good?  Does it really matter what a person’s statistical chances are in 100 of staying sober?  And even if it doesn’t matter, wouldn’t you like to know?

©2009 addictionblog.org. All Rights Reserved.

The practice of social norm marketing aims to identify what is normal in a certain population through anonymous surveys and other types of research.  Then, the social norms are broadcast to the population at large and the effects of the correct information are then measured.  Behaviors that are initially perceived as “normal” can be demystified and made more clear.  For example,

It’s NOT NORMAL to start fights while out on a Saturday night.

It’s NOT NORMAL to drink more than 5 units of alcohol per week.

It’s NOT NORMAL to wake up with injuries after a night out on the town.

That sort of thing.

Social norm marketing makes absolute sense to me, because in my experience, false conceptions about the world around me fueled my own addictions.  By telling the truth about how a population is actually behaving, you take away the normalcy of addictive behavior and the motivation to engage in the behavior.  By showing how a majority of people act, you can begin to question your own choices.  This is way cool.

In my opinion, one caveat remains.  And that is that is it important that the population you choose to define must identify on a very personal level with the community-at-large.  Indeed, community participation must become a part of personal identity in order for social norms marketing to work.  In other words, individuals will only change their behaviors if they give a damn about what other people in their group are doing and if they want to be within the bounds of what is “normal”.

So, I’ve brainstormed a few groups in which social norms marketing might work.  But what do you think?  Do addicts and alcoholics fundamentally want to belong to a peer group?  Are addicts always seeking the fringes of society?  Would social norms marketing have worked for you or a loved on if applied early enough?  As always, comments are welcome.

SOCIAL NORMS CAMPAIGN TARGET GROUPS (to address problem drinking)

• High school students
• University students
• NASCAR fans
• Jam band followers
• Sports fans (by team or league)
• Military veterans
• Religious affiliation

*I’ve gotten into the habit of searching for addiction-related information in media.  On the radio.  Posters at the cinema.  The mail.  This can become an addiction in itself, but it often results in surprise revelations in uncommon places.  So it was with a feeling of enlightenment that I came across the concept of social norm marketing while skimming the Winter 2008 U.Va. alumni magazine.

©2009 addictionblog.org. All Rights Reserved.

©2009 addictionblog.org. All Rights Reserved.

Here are a few tips for keeping sane and staying in the center of your game.

1. Invite a friend in recovery to join you and meet your family. Birds of a feather stick together, and there’s nothing like being able to roll your eyes with a fellow confidente. If you’re feeling a little shaky, bring backup. Friends in recovery will be all too happy to oblige.

2. Get thee to a meeting.  Schedule daily interludes in the family craziness to visit the rooms of A.A. or N.A.  Checking in at least once a day will keep you accountable to your ongoing mental health.  Share about your frsutrations.  It will make you feel bettter.

3. Pray.  Memorize a little prayer of gratitude or of supplication.  Repeat as much as necessary.

4. Meditate.  During really difficult moments, concentrate on your breath.  Notice what happens to your body when you get angry or upset or frightened or disappointed.  Where does the stress go?  How does it manifest?  Working with your negative emotions will help you understand yourself more and can help you learn to calm yourself during difficult times.

5. Know when enough is enough.  Stay for just the amount of time that you feel is required.  We are all obligated to our families, but we do not need to dwell in unhealthy relationships as active participants.  Make a commitment to stay with your family for a realistic amount of time…and if things get too crazy, bow out.  Losing face is less important than staying clean.

Do you have any other ideas?  How are you dealing with the season?  Any successes you can share?

©2009 addictionblog.org. All Rights Reserved.

So how do you know someone is addicted to steroids?

Steroid abusers spend time and (lots of) money obtaining the drugs, which is major indication of the addictive properties of steroids.  Despite physical problems or negative effects on social relations, people who use steroids will not stop using steroids.  People who abuse steroids can experience withdrawal symptoms including mood swings, fatigue, restlessness, loss of appetite, insomnia, reduced sex drive, steroid cravings and depression that can last for a year or more.

A year or more.

Despite the numerous drawbacks of using anabolic steroids, kids (especially adolescent boys) continue to take steroids or steroid supplements.  My theory is that boys use steroids due to low self-esteem.  And I’m not buying the line that they need to buff up to be respected.

I think that young men who experience a deep dissatisfaction with their inner lives end up relying on their appearance as the only way to feel good about themselves.  Sure, the “buff = tough” concept might be a product of the films, television shows and media images fed to our culture.  But each of us are responsible for our own actions regardless of cultural standards.  What these boys need to do is change the way they see their bodies and how they think about themselves.

How can teens find help?

Teens who chronically use anabolic steroids can talk to a parent, coach, religious leader, guidance counselor, therapist, or an adult friend about their use. A trusted adult - someone who supports- can help young men and women put their body image in perspective and give positive feedback about skills and abilities.  Teens addicted to steroids can also find treatment by using the U.S. government’s addiction treatment locator or by calling a teen crisis hotline (under social services in the yellow pages).

What do you think?  Should teens be held responsible for steroid use?  Are the pressures adolescent boys endure justification enough for use?  How can teens turn self-image around?

©2009 addictionblog.org. All Rights Reserved.

2. If you are worried about your weight or size, check in with your doctor to make sure that your health and size are within average ranges for someone your age.

3. When you hear negative comments coming from within yourself, tell yourself to stop.

4. Give yourself three compliments every day.

5. Every evening list three things in your day that really gave you pleasure. By focusing on the good things you do and the positive aspects of your life, you can change how you feel about yourself.

6. Understand that it’s no one’s business what your body looks like.  You have to be happy with yourself.  Forget the haters.

7. Identify which aspects of your appearance you can realistically change and which you can’t. Everyone has things about themselves that they can’t change and need to accept - like their height, for example, or their shoe size.

8. If there are things about yourself that you want to change and can (such as how fit you are), do this by making goals for yourself.  Create a realistic exercise plan and eat nutritious foods.

9. Track your progress until you reach your goal. Meeting a challenge you set for yourself is a great way to boost self-esteem!

10. Celebrate your victories by rewarding yourself when you reach your goals.  Buy yourself something special that can commemorate the moment and achievements in your life.

Test your self confidence

©2009 addictionblog.org. All Rights Reserved.

ADDICTION PREVENTION videos

PARENTS: The Best Anti-Drug Prevention(revised)

Well, the concept is the same as the 80’s. The message is the same. But the rules are different. Parents are the first line of defense in addiction prevention for adolescents and teens. But what shocked me about the current White House policy is that the government condones, nay encourages, parents to monitor kids’ communication. Log into their social networks. Track their cookies. Read their SMS chats. Talk about a plan made to backfire. Talk about out of touch.

Although tapping into teenage life via cellphones and computers may seem an easy and smart way to guide a kid down the straight-and-narrow, it’s simply not an effective long-term strategy for preventing substance and alcohol abuse. Teenagers require privacy in order to evolve a sense of self. In fact, Erik Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development states that during adolescence, teens either resolve their questions of identity, or end up in role confusion. The issues of becoming a grown-up either end in devotion and fidelity OR fanaticism and repudiation.

Furthermore, adolescents who are close to their parents would openly dialogue about addiction issues…without need for espionage. This current White House plan operates on the assumption that children are objects of their parent’s domain rather than growing adults. I think it’s pretty basic. A top-down monologue is not a dialogue. When you give distrust, you get distrust. And if you take away adolescent privacy, you get a resentful teenager.

I must, however, admit exceptions to every rule. This practice is quite clever and useful in one-time instances for getting help to a kid who’s in real trouble and shows signs of addiction.

What do you think? should parents have access to kids’ accounts? What if a parent PAYS FOR a teen’s technology subscriptions? Should s/he have the right to view how that technology is being used? Where is the line between private and parental discretion required?

©2009 addictionblog.org. All Rights Reserved.

The impetus for starting the Way Station was a desire to improve the results of psychological treatment for addiction. The current relapse rate (for most inpatient treatments) is greater than 50%.

The mission of Way Station is to help the addict or brain injured person who still suffers; to serve those who feel hopeless or untreatable. We believes essentially that psychological treatment is more successful when the patient’s brain is functioning at its best. Many patients’ treatment fails because a brain injury is a partial cause of the addiction or self-destructive behavior. For many patients, the brain injury is a double dose of trouble; it is a partial cause of the problem and also inhibits treatment. Oddly, psychology is the only field of medicine that prescribes treatment without any evidenced based testing of the patient before, during or after treatment.

Way Station treats the brain as a major player in addictive behavior. An article in the Wall Street Journal has quoted research that showed that about twenty-five percent of the population has a brain injury. Surprisingly, most people who experience a brain injury are unaware of their injury (which was the case in my personal story) because it was long forgotten or not diagnosed at the time of the incident(s). I learned that a brain injury can be caused by alcohol use, drug use, a high impact car accident (even if your head is not injured) and PTSD.

The treatment facility is funded with owner’s capital.

2. How is the program managed? Any best practices you’d like to share?

Way Station treatment partners manage the neurofeedback and EMDR modalities of our treatment program. Some of our best practices are based on underlying principles:

1. We only treat individuals who we believe we can help based upon a brain map.

2. In addition to the brain map, we do a weekly outcome measure, the OQ45 necessary before, during and after treatment.

3. As the treatment proceeds, the patient has on going OQ45 evaluations. If the patient is not improving the treatment is modified.

4. If the patient does not improve, then we refund our fees.

3. What demographic of people are you trying to reach today, and how might that change going forward?

We only treat patients who brain map indicates that we can help them. We use a small facility of the treatment personnel and are looking for central facility. Going forward, we are constantly searching for improved methods of evidenced-based therapy with the goal of being the best of the best.

4. Do you search for partners, or are you focused on being a self-reliant program?

We have and continue to search for partners. Our concepts are unique and not readily accepted. We are open to partners who share our philosophy of best practices and with a desire not to be just a good facility, but a great facility.

5. What new programs or features do you plan for the coming months/years that we should know about?

A 2007 study showed that 89% of autistic children improved with neurofeedback. Recently, we loaned our equipment another facility to treat a child severely affected by autism. Our equipment is unique in that the child can be treated while watching a video (versus playing a video game, which is the method for most other neurofeedback equipment). The treatment was more effective than with conventional neurofeedback. We are slowly exploring this topic.

For more information: http://waystation.us/home

©2009 addictionblog.org. All Rights Reserved.