Alcoholism in the Workplace

There’s a new study out that looks at government data concerning the alcohol habits of people working in a number of industries. Is it a surprise that the hospitality industry tops out with 15 percent of its employees suffering from serious alcohol addiction issues?

What the Research Says About Alcohol Abuse in the Workplace

Andrew Webber is the president and CEO of the National Business Coalition on Health. He says, “The impact of alcohol problems in the workplace is a tremendous hidden challenge — in part because very few people with an alcohol problem are ever identified. In the past, employers have led the way to doing more for people with chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. It’s time for American industry to do the same for people with alcohol problems.”

There’s more than just a personal expense when someone abuses alcohol and drugs. It is estimated that about 9 percent of employees in the United States abuse alcohol to the point that it means lost money for their employer in terms of missed work days, higher health care costs and lost productivity.

Men and Women and Alcohol Abuse Stats

It’s not just about the industry you work in. The Ensuring Solutions analysis of data shows that alcoholism rates are gender-related, too. For example, in both the hospitality and construction industries, men are 50 percent more likely to be alcoholics than women in the same industry.

Age Matters in Alcohol Abuse Numbers

It gets even more specific. It turns out that age makes a difference in the numbers as well. Those between 18 and 25 are more likely to have an alcohol problem than those over the age of 26.

If you want to crunch a few numbers on your own, figure out how much alcoholism is costing your business (and how much you can save by offering access to alcohol rehab) by using the Ensuring Solutions calculator.

Check out the percentages of alcohol abuse among different industries as computed by this study:

• * Hospitality: Male – 17.4% Female – 12.6% Overall – 15.0%
• * Construction: Male – 15.2% Female – 10.0% Overall – 14.7%
• * Wholesale Trade: Male – 14.6% Female – 5.3% Overall – 11.9%
• * Professional: Male – 13.3% Female – 7.1% Overall – 10.6%
• * Retail Trade: Male – 13.4%/TD> Female – 6.2% Overall – 9.7%’
• * Finance & Real Estate: Male – 11.2% Female -7.6% Overall – 9.2%
• * Manufacturing: Male – 9.5% Female – 6.5% Overall – 8.6%
• * Transportation/Utilities: Male – 9.1% Female – 4.8% Overall – 8.2%
• * Information/Communication: Male – 12.7% Female – 4.8% Overall – 8.1%
• * Agriculture: Male – 8.7% Female – 1.9% Overall – 7.2%
• * Other Services: Male – 8.9% Female – 3.8% Overall – 6.4%
• * Education/Social Services: Male – 9.4% Female – 4.3% Overall – 5.4%
• * Public Administration: Male – 6.4% Female – 4.1% Overall – 5.3%

For more information about alcohol abuse in different industries, check out the Ensuring Solutions to Alcohol Problems website or Medical News Today.

Heroin addiction is one of the tougher addictions to recover from. The way heroin attaches itself and affects the brain is so intense and powerful, it can change a person forever. However, there have been some hopeful medical advances regarding detox medications. Several forms of buprenorphine have been used and are being studied for their effectiveness with heroin addiction.

How Buprenorphine Works

Opiods are drugs that attachs themselves to the neurotransmitter receptors in the brain. These receptors are usually used by naturally occurring substances in the body. The receptors and neurotransmitters are like locks and keys.

Opioids are keys that fit into certain receptor “locks”. The difference is that opioids are usually rushed through the body in massive toxic amounts, way more than the body normally makes of the neurotransmitters. The body adjusts to accomodate the presence of larger amounts of the opioid chemicals.

Buprenorphine is an opioid, but it doesn’t fit as nicely as a true opioid drug like heroin. It takes up space on the receptors, keeping the really harmful opiods from locking on. Buprenorphine reacts just enough with the receptors to help alleviate cravings, but it doesn’t give the rush or addictive effects like heroin. Another benefit is that Buprenorphine has a lot of staying power on the receptors, blocking them from dangerous opioids for several days at a time.

Subutex a Form of Buprenorphine OK For Pregnant Heroin Users

A Buprenorphine Summit was held in the spring of 2008, gathering psychology and addiction experts from around the United States. The report on buprenorphine’s use with pregnant women offered some hope. It was determined that even though mono buprenorphine (also called Subutex) is a Category C drug, it is as safe and effective as methadone. Methadone is also a Category C drug (not generally recommended for pregnancy).

Buprenorphine Not The Perfect Solution

At this summit, experts from the National Institute of Drug Abuse reported findings about the usefulness of buprenorphine. They stated that Buprenorphine was actually more helpful with painkiller addiction than heroin addiction. However, since people react differently to different medications, buprenorphine is still a viable choice for many heroin rehab programs.

Buprenorphine is a legal prescribed drug. However, some people abuse buprenorphine by crushing and injecting it. The very drug that is supposed to help them with their heroin addiction becomes the replacement drug. This method of crushing and injection the drug is very hazerdous because shared or dirty needles can spread disease among users. This is a true testiment to the psychological and psychological power of opioid addictions.

Buprenorphine Hope for Heroin Treatment

A person addicted to heroin can choose to use buprenorphine to detox their body from heroin. The Canyon uses medication like buprenorphine, holistic healing treatments, and traditional 12-step methods to treat heroin addiction.

Addiction is a process that retools your brain, emotions, and body to accept a foreign substance as your boss. You risk life and limb for it, it changes your emotions, it distorts how you think. So once you stop using drugs and alcohol, why doesn’t everything just go back to normal? The changes made by the drugs stick around for a lot of different reasons.

Genetic Vulnerability to Addictive Behavior

What really causes one person to become addicted to drugs when another person won’t? Researchers don’t know exactly how this happens, but they have uncovered one important factor. A person can have a genetic predisposition to addictive behavior. That means they have the right personality and physical “recipe” to grab on to an addiction in whatever form it might take – gambling, drugs, shopping, etc.

So say a person with genetic vulnerability to addictive behaviors is exposed to a lot of stress or rapid adjustment. They are also presented with an opportunity to escape from this stress (drugs, alcohol, etc). When these two forces come together, they can create the perfect storm of emotional pain and emotional cover-up. This is when the addiction is born.

Mental Disorders and Emotional Pain Go With Addiction

Many times, psychological factors like depression and low self worth go along with addiction. You have the stress, the poor outlook on life, and a bottomless mixed drink or endless round of marijuana joints. It’s the recipe for a full-blown addiction to form.

An untreated mental disorder can be like gasoline on a fire. It makes an already bad situation worse in a moment’s notice. A mental disorder does many things to distort reality and magnify various emotions for a person. This provides perpetual fuel for the addiction. Some rough days at work through the lens of depression seems hopeless – drown it in alcohol. Too much to do at home and constant fear that their effort isn’t good enough – escape with marijuana.

Family Patterns and Surroundings

Another ingredient in an addiction is a person’s environment and experiences, especially from their childhood. Let’s imagine that Sara grows up with parents who do a lot of shouting and fighting mixed with cold silence. Mom spends the whole paycheck before the next one comes, dad goes out with the guys all night long, both of them have affairs.

Sara copes with this chaos by burying her head in the sand however she can as a child – fantasizing, making herself too busy, being a little parent to her brother. Meanwhile, no one is really teaching Sara how to deal with her own stress and feelings. Her parents do a lot of avoiding, showing intense emotion, and getting stuck in their own world.

As an adult, Sara faces ordinary and usual stresses of being on her own but has no idea how to cope in healthy ways. She makes herself overly busy, has friends but feels lonely, and marries a charming guy who ends up being abusive. The pain from this “life of extremes” is so overwhelming, she eventually escapes through drugs and alcohol.

Drug Rehab Helps A Person Focus Their Life With Balance

Holistic drug rehab is the most comprehensive way to deal with dual diagnosis situations. The Canyon is a known leader in the field of residential drug treatment for co-occurring disorders. The genetics, the mental disorders, the family factors – The Canyon is equipped to deal with all of them. They teach a person with dual diagnosis how to balance their life, something they may be learning for the very first time.

Marijuana Addiction

It’s all very sciency-schmiency but I’ll lay it out for you. According to Medical News Today and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, changes that occur in a molecular pathway in the brain when you smoke marijuana have been linked to symptoms of schizophrenia.

In Layman’s Terms: Marijuana is No Good For Your Head

Neurotransmitters necessary for memory and other cognitive processes are diminished when you smoke pot. For those who have schizophrenia, this neurotransmitter is already inhibited and smoking weed makes it even worse. But it’s not just a danger for those who already have schizophrenia.

David A. Lewis, M.D. is a corresponding author of a recent study on the connection between schizophrenia and marijuana abuse and a UPMC Endowed Professor in Translational Neuroscience, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. He says, “Heavy marijuana use, particularly in adolescence, appears to be associated with an increased risk for the later development of schizophrenia, and the course of illness is worse for people with schizophrenia who use marijuana.”

Marijuana Addiction: No Such Thing as Innocent Experimentation

The problem with marijuana is that few people take it seriously. Those who experimented with it back in the ‘60s and ‘70s lived through it just fine, most without developing schizophrenia or addictions to other drugs often feel that there’s no harm in a little flirting when it comes to the green stuff. Unfortunately, the weed that was in circulation back then was far less potent than what is on the streets today. Whether it’s from Canada, Mexico or homegrown, today’s marijuana is exceedingly strong with higher levels of THC, which makes its effects that much more harmful. It’s also easier to find. More and more people are learning how to grow it themselves and with the advent of medical marijuana, more pharmaceutical grade product is making its way to the street.

Finding Marijuana Addiction Treatment

Few drug rehab facilities cater to the needs of those who suffer from marijuana addiction. It’s a sad commentary on the state of drug addiction treatment in the United States and the weight of the problem with addiction in general that so little has been developed in the way of specific marijuana addiction treatment.

At The Canyon, every person who comes to stay with us enjoys a highly unique drug rehab experience. Contact us today for more information on the marijuana rehab program that we can provide you or someone you love struggling with marijuana addiction.

Gay and Lesbian Drug Addiction

We’ve talked a little bit recently about drug and alcohol abuse among different groups: medical professionals, women, teenagers. Today we’re going to talk about the high risk of drug and alcohol abuse among gay and lesbian youth because it is so high, it is irresponsible to ignore it.

What the Research Says about Drug and Alcohol Abuse Among Gay and Lesbian Youth

Did you know that lesbian, gay and bisexual youth are 190 percent more likely to use illegal substances than heterosexual teens of the same age? According to Medical News Today and University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, that’s not all. Apparently, lesbian teens are 400 percent more likely to get high or drunk and bisexual teens are 340 percent more likely.

Michael P. Marshal, Ph.D. is an assistant professor of psychiatry at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC. He led the study and says, “Homophobia, discrimination and victimization are largely what are responsible for these substance use disparities in young gay people. History shows that when marginalized groups are oppressed and do not have equal opportunities and equal rights, they suffer. Our results show that gay youth are clearly no exception.”

What Can We Do About the High Risk for Drug Abuse Among Gay and Lesbian Teens?

First of all, we can begin by making it clear that sexual orientation can be a risk factor. Currently, this is not mentioned in any of the substance abuse prevention and intervention literature published by organizations like the American Medical Association, the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the National Institute on Alcohol and Alcoholism and the Institute of Medicine. More research needs to be done on the subject and this research needs to be made available to substance abuse treatment and medical professionals.

Says Dr. Marshal, “It is important to remember that the vast majority of gay youth are happy and healthy, despite the stressors of living in a violent, homophobic society. More than anything, gay youth need love, support and acceptance from their family members and friends. It also is imperative that health care providers offer a safe, confidential environment to discuss health care needs with gay teens.”

Do You Know a Gay, Lesbian or Bisexual Teen Struggling with Drug and Alcohol Abuse?

If you or someone you know is using drugs and alcohol as a way of dealing with sexual orientation issues, family issues, stressors at school or at work, the sooner you get help for yourself or them the better. The earlier that you get involved in drug addiction treatment, the better chance you will have of enjoying a life without drugs and alcohol destroying your health and relationships. If you have questions about the options available to you or if you need help setting up an intervention for your gay or lesbian teen, call us at The Canyon today.

GHB Addiction Treatment

Though it’s not a new drug on the scene by any stretch, GHB is, unfortunately, one that is rising in popularity among teenagers and young adults. GHB is short for gamma-hydroxybutyrate and is most often used at dance parties where the music is designed to enhance the experience on the drug in much the same way that early techno at raves was meant to enhance experiences on the drug Ecstasy. A central nervous system depressant drug, GHB is most often used recreationally for its euphoric, sedative and aphrodisiac characteristics. Some also use it as a nutritional supplement or growth hormone, especially body builders. Others use it to spike the drink of those who don’t suspect it and then take advantage of them through robbery or sexual assault.

What the Researchers Say About GHB Use

According to Medical News Today and the Medical Journal of Australia, a publication of the Australian Medical Association, the number of paramedic calls for GHB overdoses are outnumbering the calls for heroin overdose in some areas.

Paul Dietze is an associate professor at the Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health Research at the Burnet Institute. He is one of the authors of a study that analyzed a database of ambulance records over a four-year period and compared attendances due to GHB overdoses versus heroin overdoses. He says, “Most patients who took GHB were less than 25 years old, were attended in public places and had severely reduced consciousness. The clear increases in GHB-related ambulances attendances over time highlights the need for further research on how best to respond to this emergent drug-related harm.”

Why the Increase in GHB Overdoses?

Why is this happening? Are people taking more and more of the drug or is the drug changing in quality?

There could be a number of reasons. One theory is that the quality of the drug is too varied for people to accurately assess how much they can handle. Taking the same amount as last weekend may result in an overdose even though nothing bad happened the last time around. This means that just a little bit could result in overdose: an altered state of consciousness, lost consciousness, severe respiratory depression, seizure, coma and even death.

Do You or Does Someone You Love Have a Problem with GHB?

The problem with GHB is that the drug isn’t going away. If you’re concerned that you have a problem with GHB or that someone you love is using party drugs in alarming amounts, don’t wait: get help today. You can contact The Canyon if you have any questions about GHB addiction and find out more about interventions, individualized and unique drug treatment programs, sober living and other options. Call The Canyon today.

What’s the deal with MMA fighters and drugs? It seems like every time you turn around, another star in this fast-growing sport is testing positive for cocaine, marijuana, steroids or other controlled substances. The suspensions are flying, and UFC president Dana White and other industry bigwigs can’t be too happy about it.

But how much impact are these drug suspensions having on the fighters and their sport, and does it make sense to suspend fighters for using recreational drugs? MMA is like a runaway freight train with designs on marketing to mainstream America, but every time an athlete is banned, there’s a strong chance he’s back in business in a matter of months. Let’s take a look at a few of these high profile drug cases and their fallout.

MMA Fighters suspended for drugs

Besides the coked out stare, Elvis is looking pretty good these days. Photo courtesy of sherdog.com

Ricco Rodriguez - (30-9-0) – Suspended for cocaine use
Sentence – 6 month suspension

A once-great talent, Rodriguez made some serious noise in the UFC heavyweight division (eventually winning the championship by submitting Randy Couture) before he was relegated to Pride and some smaller promotions thanks to a variety of personal issues. These problems culminated in November 2006 when, following a win over Imani Lee, he was suspended indefinitely due to testing positive for cocaine and marijuana. Eventually he took his cocaine addiction issues to the airwaves when he appeared on the hit VH1 reality show, Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew.

Career Outlook: In MMA, not so good. In Celebrity Big Brother 4 or The Surreal Life, outstanding!

"I am Diego. This is my finger."

Diego Sanchez – (19-2-0) – Suspended for marijuana use
Sentence – 3 month suspension, $500 fine

A member of the original cast of The Ultimate Fighter, Sanchez was enjoying a nice 17 fight win streak to kick off his MMA career when he tested positive for marijuana in the days leading up to his big fight against Josh Koscheck. Whether or not the drug ban was a significant distraction remains to be seen, but Sanchez did lose that fight and his next battle (against Jon Fitch). Since then, Diego seems to have gotten his life back on track. He’s 2-0 in the two fights since.

Career Outlook: Great. This is one kid who seems to (Finally!) have his head screwed on according to factory specifications.

Melvin Guillard – (23-7-2) – Suspended for cocaine use
Sentence – 8 month suspension, $2100 fine

This lightweight and Season 2 Ultimate Fighter alum learned the hard way that people in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones when after accusing 2007 opponent Joe Stevenson of using HGH, Guillard himself tested positive for cocaine immediately after the fight (which he lost after being dropped by a guillotine choke from Stevenson). Guillard served his drug suspension, paid his fine and has gone 2-1 since, including a “Knock Out Of The Night” performance at UFC 86.

Career outlook: Good, provided he learns the meaning of irony.

Photo courtesy of sherdog.com

Kaz Nakamura - (11-8-0) – Suspended for marijuana use
Sentence – Released from contract

The PRIDE veteran proved that you can get away with doing drugs in the UFC but not if you’re losing. After an 0-2 start against sketchy opponents, Nakamura tested positive for marijuana and was promptly released by the UFC. Who’s to say how things might have turned out if he had started 2-0?

Career Outlook: In Japan and other countries, Nakamura can easily regain his momentum, in the United States – not so much.

Photo courtesy of sherdog.com

Nick Diaz – (17-7-0) – Suspended for Marijuana use
Sentence – 3 month suspension, $3000 fine

The UFC doesn’t have a monopoly on stupid behavior, as PRIDE FC fighter Nick Diaz proved in 2007 when he derailed his promising career with a positive marijuana test. After serving a three-month suspension after the drug test (the one that observers say he was “nervous” to take) Diaz signed with the upstart Elite XC promotion and has recorded a respectable 2-1 record since.

Career Outlook: Solid, if he doesn’t look too jumpy before his next drug test.

Photo courtesy of sherdog.com

Adam Smith – (0-2-0) – Suspended for using pretty much everything
Sentence – 21 month suspension, $4000 fine

A veritable 5-tool player when it comes to substance abuse, the talented Smith has the dubious honor of being the first and only fighter in Nevada history – boxing or MMA – to test positive for drugs and performance enhancing substances at the same time. After his 2007 loss at the Playboy Mansion in Beverly Hills (a non-sanctioned bout he was able to participate in even though he was under previous drug suspension) he tested positive for marijuana, cocaine and steroids. Smith has talent, but even when his suspension expires in September 2008 one has to wonder how long he will be able to stay in the sport.

Career outlook: Bleak, unless the UFC is adding a crack-hold submission to the official rules.


So obviously it’s a mixed bag with these fighters since their outlooks are as different as their fighting styles. It leaves one wondering why they were taking drugs so close to fight time in the first place. The reasons may be the nature of MMA itself. The sport is so intense that, depending upon the fighter’s personality – athletes may need to calm down by using marijuana, or get hyped up from cocaine or other stimulants.

Or perhaps it’s simply a matter of choosing the right role model. If so, MMA fighters looking to get clean and stay drug-free might want to look for someone other than the world-famous Chuck Liddell, seen here at something less than his finest hour, to emulate: