faq’s:

1. What is sober living?

Sober living homes are alcohol and drug free environments that provide a postive place for peer group recovery support. Sober housing promotes individual recovery and allows residents to become self supporting. It is a great opportunity to re-learn, re-structure, and implement a new life once you have been released from rehab or detoxification.

2. What is drug addiction?

Drug addiction is a complex, and often chronic brain disease. It is characterized by drug cravings, seeking, using; and persists even in the face of devastating life consequences. Addiction results largely from brain changes that stem from prolonged and frequent drug use- these changes involve multiple brain circuits, including those responsible for governing self- control and other productive behaviors. Drug addiction is treatable, often with medications (for some addictions), combined with behavioral therapies. However, relapse can occur even after long periods of sobriety, underscoring the need for long-term support and care. Relapse does not signify treatment failure, but rather should prompt treatment re-engagement modification.

3. How do I know if someone is addicted to drugs?

Addiction will show itself in the form of compulsively seeking and using a drug(s) despite negative consequences such as: loss of job, accumulating debt, family problems, or physical problems. Most addicts won't admit to having a problem because they believe they can stop at any time, and most often, they cannot and will require professional assistance to determine if they are suffering from addiction and then recieve effective treatment. Support from friends and family can be critically important to beginning the process of getting their loved one into treatment and help them maintain sobriety.

4. What is alcoholism?

Alcoholism, also known as alcohol dependence, is a disease that includes the following four symptoms:

  • Craving- a strong need or urge to consume alcoholic beverages
  • Loss of control- not being able to stop drinking once drinking has begun
  • Physical dependence- withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, shakiness and anxiety
  • Tolerance- the need to drink greater amounts of alcohol to get drunk

For clinical and research purposes, formal diagnostic criteria for alcoholism also have been developed. Such criteria are included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, published by the American Psychiatric Association, as well as in the International Classification Diseases, published by the World Health Organization.

5. Is alcoholism a disease?

Yes, alcoholism is a disease. The craving that an alcoholic feels can be as strong as the need for food or water. An alcoholic will continue to drink despite serious family, health or legal problems.

6. Can alcoholism be treated?

Yes. Alcohol treatment programs use both counseling and medications to help a person stop drinking. Treatment has helped many people stop drinking and rebuild their lives.

7. What are Amphetamines and are they addictive?

Amphetamines are commonly referred to as speed, crystal or meth and they are highly addictive. These drugs are stimulants and be snorted, swallowed, injected and inhaled and are dangerous. If injected these drugs can lead to collapsed veins and heart problems. Abusing amphetamines creates an addiction resulting in greater tolerance for larger amounts and a psychological dependence.

The most well-known form of methamphetamines is crystal meth, also known as meth. However, there are other forms of the drug. Methamphetamines are commonly referred to as meth, ice (crystallized), batu, glass, crystals, crystal-meth, speed, and chalk. Methamphetamines can be snorted, injected, smoked, or taken orally. Effects of methamphetamine use include heart palpitations, blurred vision, violent behavior, hallucinations, and aggression. Methamphetamines are extremely addictive, particularly crystal meth (a.k.a. meth or ice). Methamphetamines can cause damage to the brain, lungs, liver, and heart. Users may also experience memory loss, psychotic behavior, and increased risk of unsafe sexual behavior

8. What are the signs that someone is addicted to Amphetamines?

Addicts show a variety of different signs and symptoms including drastic changes in personality and mood. Users often engage in dangerous and thoughtless behaviors and participate in activities they would normally not do otherwise. Addiction itself, like other drug addictions is characterized by a tolerance and dependence on the drug. Increased paranoia, anxiety adn changes in eating and sleeping patterns are prevalent in abuse patterns.

9. Is Marijuana addictive?

Marijuana contains the chemical THC which is a mood altering drug. THC occurs naturally in marijuana plants and when taken into the body causes a 'high' feeling in the brain. Marijuana is most commonly smoked, although it can be ingested in the form of various foods. It has been scientifically proven that marijuana or THC is addictive, however, if used over an extended period of time, in a habitual manner, a person can develop a dependence. Many people use the justification that marijuana is not physically addictive, therefore they do not have a problem. Marijuana can negatively affect a person's life on a number of different levels.

Marijuana decreases short term memory capacity, creates confusion, paranoia, anxiety and restlessness. In addition, it can negatively impact a person's motor skills as well as their ability to feel emotions. Marijuana is often combined with other drugs and treatment for marijuana abuse is available and readily utilized.

10. What is Oxycontin?

Oxycontin is a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic prescribed for chronic or long- lasting pain. Oxycontin's active ingredient is oxycodone which is also found in drugs like percodan and tylox. However, Oxycontin contains between 10 and 160 milligrams of oxycodone in a timed release tablet. Painkillers such as Tylox contain 5 milligrams of Oxycodone and often require repeated doses to bring about pain relief because they lack the timed release formulation.

Oxycontin also referred to as 'Oxy', 'OC', and 'Killer' on the street is legitimately prescribed in a time released tablet providing as many as 12 hours of relief from chronic pain. It is often prescribed for cancer patients and those with chronic, long-lasting back pain. The benefit of the medication to these pain sufferers is that they generally need to take the pill only once a day, whereas a dosage of another medication would require more frequent use to control the pain. The goal of chronic pain treatment is to decrease pain and improve function.

11. Is Oxycontin addictive?

Yes, Oxycontin is extremely addictive and is often referred to as Hillbilly Heroin. Oxycontin is a narcotic and has a euphoric effect on the user. Many people fall prey to Oxycontin when they have a medical crises, and begin to take the drug for pain and then it escalates to abuse whereby they are taking it for the euphoric feeling that gets them through their day. Something that was supposed to heal them is now ruining their lives.

OxyContin abusers either crush the tablet and ingest or snort it or they dilute it in water and inject it. Crushing or diluting the tablet disarms the timed-release action of the medication, but crushing OxyContin in this way can give the user a potentially fatal dose. Under prescribed dosage, OxyContin is an effective pain reliever, but when crushed and snorted or injected, the drug produces a quick and powerful 'high' that some abusers compare to the feeling they get when doing heroin. The NIDA reports that in some areas of the country, OxyContin abuse rates are actually higher than heroin abuse. Because OxyContin, like heroin and other opioids, is a central nervous system depressant, and overdose can cause respiratory failure and death. Some symptoms of OxyContin overdose include:

  • Slow breathing (respiratory depression)
  • Seizures
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Coma
  • Confusion
  • Tiredness
  • Cold and clammy skin

12. What are Inhalants?

Inhalants are a group of chemicals found in household objects which are breathed in to createdrug-like effects. These products are commonly used as cleaning items, for art projects, in medical procedures, or for cooking, but when inhaled they prove to be very dangerous. Street names of inhalants include: poppers, hardware, whippets, poor man’s pot, and snappers.

These drugs are most popular among middle-school aged children and teens. This may be because of the cheap cost and easy accessibility. Inhalant use has been known to lead to the abuse of more serious drugs, such as heroin and cocaine. In most cases of inhalant use symptoms are similar to those experienced when intoxicated with alcohol.

Inhalants can be categorized into four groups:

  1. Aerosols – These common household objects are contained in spray bottles. Types of aerosols include hair spray, computer cleaning products, sprays for vegetable oil, and spray paint.
  2. Gases – Types of gases may be found around the house or used in medical facilities. Examples of gases include nitrous oxide, gases from the refrigerator, propane tank gases, chloroform, and whipped cream bottles.
  3. Nitrites – These products are often used in cleaning. Types of nitrates include leather cleaner, and scents used to air out a room. Butyl, amyl, and cyclohexyl are all nitrites.
  4. Volatile Solvents – Volatile solvents are products commonly used in businesses (especially art facilities) and possibly in the home. Examples include gasoline, liquid in a felt-tipped marker, glue, paint thinner, and degreasers. Inappropriate use of any of these products can cause harmful consequences. It may be crucial to seek out detoxification and drug treatment before long-term effects or even death result.

Symptoms associated with inhalant use may include:

  • Change in heart rate
  • Sneezing
  • Hallucinations
  • No desire to eat
  • Drowsiness
  • Coughing
  • Euphoria
  • Poor decision-making
  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Relaxation
  • Inability to speak clearly
  • Bloody nose
  • Headache
  • Poor coordination
  • Dizziness
  • Unconsciousness

Highly concentrated inhalant use or repeated breathing in of inhalants may result in death, unconsciousness, or destructive behavior. These consequences may occur in someone who is using inhalants for the first time or in an experienced user of these drugs.

Unfortunately for those who abuse inhalants, drug treatment is often far more complicated and sometimes not even available at drug and alcohol rehab centers. This may be partially due to the fact that neurological damage is frequently present and abuse in the home is regularly an issue. Also, detoxification periods for inhalant addiction tend to last for a longer period of time, a month or longer.

12. What is Ecstasy?

Some street terms include: Adam, E, Roll, X, XTC
MDMA or Ecstasy (3-4-methylenedioxymethampheta-mine), is a synthetic drug with amphetamine-like and hallucinogenic properties. It is classified as a stimulant. Ecstasy comes in a tablet form that is often branded, e.g. Playboy bunnies, Nike swoosh, CK. Taken in pill form, users sometimes take Ecstasy at “raves,” clubs and other parties to keep on dancing and for mood enhancement.

Users report that Ecstasy produces intensely pleasurable effects — including an enhanced sense of self-confidence and energy. Effects include feelings of peacefulness, acceptance and empathy. Users say they experience feelings of closeness with others and a desire to touch others. Other effects can include involuntary teeth clenching, a loss of inhibitions, transfixion on sights and sounds, nausea, blurred vision, chills and/or sweating. Increases in heart rate and blood pressure, as well as seizures, are also possible. The stimulant effects of the drug enable users to dance for extended periods, which when combined with the hot crowded conditions usually found at raves, can lead to severe dehydration and hyperthermia or dramatic increases in body temperature. This can lead to muscle breakdown and kidney, liver and cardiovascular failure. Cardiovascular failure has been reported in some of the Ecstasy-related fatalities. After-effects can include sleep problems, anxiety and depression.

Repeated use of Ecstasy ultimately may damage the cells that produce serotonin, which has an important role in the regulation of mood, appetite, pain, learning and memory. There already is research suggesting Ecstasy use can disrupt or interfere with memory.

13. What is Cocaine and can you become addicted?

Cocaine is presently the most abused major stimulant in America. It has recently become the drug most frequently involved in emergency department visits. It is not a new drug of abuse but is now considered the caviar of recreational drugs. Thus, this distinction is reflected in its description-champagne of drugs, gold dust, Cadillac of drugs, status stimulant, yuppie drug, and others. Street names for cocaine also reflect its appearance or method of use (such as flake, snow, toot, blow, nose candy, her, she, lady flake, liquid lady [a mixture of cocaine and alcohol], speedball [cocaine and heroin], crack, rock). And it can also express its method of preparation, such as freebase. It is more popularly known simply as coke.

A common myth is that cocaine is not addictive because it lacks the physical withdrawal symptoms seen in alcohol or heroin addiction.

Cocaine has powerful psychological addictive properties. As more than one user has reflected, "If it is not addictive, then why can't I stop" The trend in drug abuse in the United States is presently multiple or polydrug abuse, and cocaine is no exception. Cocaine is often used with alcohol, sedatives such as Valium, Ativan, or heroin, as an upper/downer combination. The other drug is also used to moderate the side effects of the primary addiction. A common polydrug abuse problem, seen especially in adolescents, is cocaine, alcohol, and marijuana.

  • Methods of abuse:
    Coke in this hydrochloride salt form may be injected; swallowed; applied to oral, vaginal, or even rectal mucous membranes; or mixed with liquor. Coke is most commonly used by snorting or sniffing.
  • With snorting, the usual ritual is to place a line of coke, about 0.3 cm wide by 2.5 cm long, on a smooth surface. The finely divided powder is then snorted (inhaled quickly) into a nostril through a plastic or glass straw or a rolled currency bill. This ritual is usually repeated within a few minutes using the other nostril.Special spoons and other paraphernalia are available for snorting cocaine.
  • Cocaine is generally not taken by mouth for recreational purposes. Toxic reactions, including death, have occurred in people who swallow the drug to avoid police detection or border authorities. This smuggling attempt is known as body packing. This crystalline white powder can be dissolved in water and used intravenously ('slammed'). In this form, it has a high melting point, so it cannot be smoked and is the most widely used form of the drug.
  • Freebasing involves the conversion of cocaine hydrochloride into cocaine sulfate that is 'free' of the additives and nearly 100% pure. It is not water soluble and has a low melting point, so it can be smoked. The freebaser runs the risk of being burned by the conversion process because a highly volatile solvent, such as ether, is being used.
  • Crack is extracted from coke using baking soda and heat-a relatively safe method compared with the ether technique. The waxy base becomes rocks of cocaine, ready to be sold in vials. This rock cocaine is also easy to smoke, the most common form of use in the streets. Because the freebase is resistant to destruction by heat, it can be smoked either in cigarettes, including marijuana cigarettes, or in 'coke pipes.' Smoking the freebase produces a more powerful effect more rapidly, but it is also more dangerous because the safe dose can easily be exceeded. A user describes the comparison: "Snorting coke is like driving 50 miles per hour. Smoking crack is like driving 150 miles per hour without brakes!"
  • Central nervous system and psychiatric effects:
    Users who have pleasurable experiences report varying degrees of euphoria; increased energy, excitement, and sociability; less hunger and fatigue; a marked feeling of increased physical and mental strength; and decreased sensation of pain. Some will feel a great sense of power and competence that may be associated with the delusion or false sense of grandeur, known as cocainomania.

There can be talkativeness, good humor, and laughing. Dilated pupils, nausea, vomiting, headache, or vertigo. With or even without increased amounts of coke, these can progress to excitement, flightiness, emotional instability, restlessness, irritability, apprehension, inability to sit still, teeth grinding, cold sweats, tremors, twitching of small muscles (especially of face, fingers, feet), muscle jerks, hallucinations (cocaine bugs, snow lights, voices and sounds, smells).

Major effects that usually cause a cocaine abuser to go to an emergency department are severe headache, seizures, loss of consciousness that can be caused by not breathing or bleeding in the brain, stroke, hyperthermia (increased body temperature), coma, loss of vital support functions (such as low blood pressure, slow heart rate, slow respirations, and death).

14. What is Heroin and what are the dangers?

Heroin is a highly addictive drug derived from morphine, which is obtained from the opium poppy. It is a “downer” or depressant that affects the brain’s pleasure systems and interferes with the brain’s ability to perceive pain.

It can appear as a white to dark brown powder or tar-like substance. Heroin can be used in a variety of ways, depending on user preference and the purity of the drug. Heroin can be injected into a vein (“mainlining”), injected into a muscle, smoked in a water pipe or standard pipe, mixed in a marijuana joint or regular cigarette, inhaled as smoke through a straw, known as “chasing the dragon,” snorted as powder via the nose.

The short-term effects of heroin abuse appear soon after a single dose and disappear in a few hours. After an injection of eroin, the user reports feeling a surge of euphoria (“rush”) accompanied by a warm flushing of the skin, a dry mouth, and heavy extremities. Following this initial euphoria, the user goes “on the nod,” an alternately wakeful and drowsy state. Mental functioning becomes clouded due to the depression of the central nervous system. Other effects included slowed and slurred speech, slow gait, constricted pupils, droopy eyelids, impaired night vision, vomiting, constipation.

Long-term effects of heroin appear after repeated use for some period of time. Chronic users may develop collapsed veins, infection of the heart lining and valves, abscesses, cellulites, and liver disease. Pulmonary complications, including various types of pneumonia, may result from the poor health condition of the abuser, as well as from heroin’s depressing effects on respiration.

Nick Names for Heroin include:

  • Dragon
  • Dope
  • Heron, Herone, Hero, Hera, H, Big H
  • White, China White, White Nurse, White Lady, White Horse, White Girl, White Boy, White Stuff
  • Boy, He
  • Black, Black Tar, Black Pearl, Black Stuff, Black Eagle
  • Brown, Brown Crystal, Brown Sugar, Brown Tape, Brown Rhine
  • Chiba, Chiva, Chieva
  • Mexican Brown, Mexican Mud, Mexican Horse
  • Junk, Tar
  • Snow, Snowball
  • Smack, Scag, Scat, Sack, Skunk
  • Number 3, Number 4, Number 8

Combining heroin with different drugs is a common practice, so much so that there are special words to describe those combinations. Some of these are listed below.

  • Atom bomb, Canade, Woola, Woolie, Woo-Woo - Marijuana and heroin
  • Bars - Alprazolam and heroin
  • Beast, LBJ - LSD and heroin
  • Belushi, Boy-Girl, Dynamite, Goofball, H & C, He-She,Primo, Snowball - Cocaine and heroin
  • Chasing the Dragon, Chocolate Rock, Dragon Rock, Eightball, Moonrock - Crack and heroin
  • Cheese - Cold medicine and heroin
  • China White - Fentanyl and heroin
  • Chocolate Chip Cookies, H bomb - MDMA and heroin
  • Cotton Brothers, New Jack Swing - Morphine and heroin
  • Meth Speed Ball - Methamphetamine and heroin
  • The Five Way - Heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, Rohypnol and alcohol

The practice of preparing heroin for injection or other use is a huge part of the addict’s life. Almost ritual like, the preparation of the drug is highly ritualistic and, as such, the different aspects of heroin use has spawned a whole language to define it.

15. What are classified as Hallucinogens and what are the dangers?

Several types of drugs fall under the category of hallucinogens. The three main substances are LSD, mescaline, and psilocybin. LSD is also known by various street names such as acid, blotter, boomers, cubes, microdot, and yellow sunshine. Mescaline is also known as buttons, cactus, mesc, and peyote. Psilocybin is often referred as magic mushroom, purple passion, shrooms, and PCP.

Hallucinogens may be snorted, smoked, or ingested in pill form, as a powder or as syrup. Hallucinogens can cause users to behave unpredictably, including erratic and violent behavior. Users commonly experience injuries, which are sometimes serious or fatal.

Signs and effects of using hallucinogens include shallow breathing, elevated heart rate and blood pressure, reduced sensitivity to touch or pain (which can result in injuries), convulsions, coma, and heart and lung failure. Hallucinogens also produce psychological effects including depression, anxiety, paranoia, and flashbacks.