Health

Are you tired of sitting back and watching a loved one destroy themselves and everything around them? It’s time for a substance abuse intervention. Here’s how.

It’s scary to think about your loved one dealing with substance abuse. It’s even scarier to think about what might happen if you don’t address the issue.

About 21.5 million Americans struggle with substance abuse, which costs American society $200 billion in healthcare, criminal justice, and lost workplace productivity each year.

Substance abuse doesn’t have to be the story of your loved one’s life. We’re going through everything you need to know about staging a substance abuse intervention, from why you should do an intervention to the steps you need for a successful one.

Why Stage a Substance Abuse Intervention?

First things first: why should you stage an intervention?

Interventions are a helpful tool when friends and family have been unable to convince someone to seek support for substance abuse, especially if the individual is unwilling to accept that they have a problem.

It acts as a powerful way to convey a message from friends, family, and often a medical professional that someone needs help and their loved ones want to support them in seeking it.

What Happens in an Intervention?

The premise of an intervention is simple: the individual goes to a meeting with their loved ones, facilitated by an interventionist.

During this meeting, loved ones will read aloud a letter they wrote to the individual about how much they mean to the person, how their addiction has affected that person, and how they hope their relationship can proceed.

Signs You Need to Stage an Intervention

Admitting your loved one needs help is the first step towards getting them to admit that they need help. The key is to recognize problematic behaviors and know when to act.

This primarily has to do with recognizing the signs of addiction.

The specific signs of addiction can vary based on the drug of choice (opiate addiction is different than alcoholism, for example) but addictions do have a few commonalities. These include:

• significant behavioral changes
• significant physical changes
• ongoing deceptiveness

Behavioral changes can include mood swings, irritability, or sudden failure to meet daily responsibilities. Physical changes can include anything from unexplainable weight changes to changes in sleeping patterns to a neglect of personal hygiene.

10 Steps to Stage an Addiction Intervention

Now that you know why you should stage an intervention and what to look for as signs that your loved one needs an intervention, let’s talk about what you should do during an intervention.

Remember that the ultimate goal of a family intervention is to get your loved one to agree to treatment. Structure your intervention with that in mind.

If your loved one does need to receive professional treatment for addiction, you can learn more about options with Jacksonville Metro Treatment Center.

1. Choose Your Team with Care

Before you write any letters or set a tie, you need to choose the right team for the task.

This isn’t as easy as choosing any family members who are willing to volunteer. You need people who know, love and trust the addicted person. More importantly, you need people the addicted person is most likely to listen to.

People who have strained relationships with the person are not the people you want in the room, even if they’re a close family member. The point of an intervention isn’t to air grievances or mend fences.

You can engage the whole family in recovery once the addicted person agrees to treatment, but that comes after the intervention.

It’s also a good idea to have a professional interventionist in the room to act as an impartial third party and keep the intervention on track and on message.

2. Find the Right Time and Place to Talk

When we talk about the right time, we’re not necessarily talking about a time of day, though that’s also important.

The bigger point here is to talk to your loved one during a sober moment, or as close to sober as they usually get.

In general, talking to someone while impaired by drugs or alcohol isn’t a great idea, as anyone who’s ever tried to reason with a drunk person can tell you. Besides a lack of rational thinking, drugs tend to impair a person’s ability to reason, remember, and react calmly to something they don’t like.

As a rule, first thing in the morning is usually a safe bet.

You should also find the right place to hold an intervention. Many families try to do this at home, but the family home can actually be too comfortable, as the person could retreat to the bathroom or their bedroom.

Instead, a therapist’s office is a good place to hold an intervention, as people tend to be on their best behavior and they won’t form negative associations with the room.

3. Gather Information

Next, you need to do your homework.

Gather information about nearby treatment options, as well as information on the type of addiction your loved one struggles with. This will help you have an informed dialogue when the time comes.

4. Plan the Order of Talking and Rehearse

Once everyone has the required information and you know where the intervention will happen, you need to figure out the order of speakers.

The intervention ends when the person leaves or agrees to go to treatment. Allowing the right person to speak at the right moment can reach the desired goal much faster.

For example, if the addicted person has a loving relationship with a spouse or child, the child could speak first and the spouse could speak last. That way, the child is speaking when the person is likely most resistant and needs convincing, and the spouse can speak when the person is feeling most moved.

You also need to hold rehearsals, preferably several. An intervention isn’t a school–emotions run high, and you need the speakers to keep emotions in check for the person to be receptive to what they’re hearing.

5. Write a Script and Stick to It

You also need to write a script, usually a letter to the addicted person. This will be your script. Anything not in the letter shouldn’t be said during the intervention.

Write your script and go through it several times with the interventionist. You want to maintain a calm, loving, nonaccusatory tone that nonetheless expresses the hurt you feel in a way that encourages the person to seek help.

Once you have your script, stick with it, regardless of what you or the addicted person may be feeling. Surprise can make people uncomfortable, and that can lead to critical errors that make the whole thing fall apart.

6. Mind Your Body Language

Your body language should be like the language of your script. It should show your loved one that you want to talk and you want them to change.

Be careful to maintain open, warm body language throughout the intervention. Your arms and legs should be uncrossed, with your hands unclenched. Your shoulders should tilt towards the person you’re speaking to, and you should look at them when you talk to them.

7. Manage Your Expectations

Before, during, and after the intervention, it’s important to keep your expectations in check and realistic.

The person likely won’t do a complete 180 shift in their life after an intervention, and it’s unfair to be frustrated when they don’t. It’s also unfair to be frustrated if they’re unreceptive to what you’re saying, no matter how badly the person has hurt you.

Remember that TV interventions are usually successful because, well, they’re on TV. Even if the whole intervention goes as planned, there’s no guarantee that the person will accept help, acknowledge that they need it, or even stay through the entire intervention.

It’s important to manage your expectations, as this will help you keep your emotions in check.

8. Keep Tempers in Check

With that in mind, it’s vital that everyone involved in the intervention keeps their tempers and emotions in check throughout the entire process.

If someone is addicted, chances are they’ve hurt you, intentionally or otherwise. That’s not fair to you or the other members of your family. But you should address those issues in treatment, not during an intervention.

The angrier or more upset everyone gets, the less likely it is for the addicted person to agree to treatment. Resist the urge to lay blame, argue back, launch counterattacks, or make ultimatums. If the person tries to pick a fight, don’t rise to the bait.

If the person picks a fight and manages to change the subject, you’re suddenly arguing about your family issues instead of the problem at hand, and that isn’t productive.

9. Don’t Give Up

Finally, don’t give up on your loved one, no matter how frustrated you might be.

They may be resistant now, but they need you at this moment more than ever. They need to acknowledge that they have a problem, and they need your compassion in order to do so.

Some people commit to making a change after one conversation. Others take several tries. The key is to keep trying and not lose your patience.

Beyond Your Substance Abuse Intervention

A substance abuse intervention can be scary, but this is when your loved one needs you the most. If you want your loved one to make a change in their life, you need to give them the support and prompting to do it.

If you need more tips for living a healthier, drug-free life, check out our blog for more tips, like this post on what to do if you think your child is on drugs.

 

There is a set of specific risks that come with working in a refinery:

• Flammable and explosive substances;
• Falling materials or debris;
• Dangerous weather conditions;
• Equipment failure;
• Improper safety precautions employed by the company;

And these are only the elements that can cause immediate damage. Those working in a refinery can also be exposed to substances that can have lasting effects on their health. Respiratory issues caused by the low-air quality in a refinery, for instance, are common health problems. All these threats can result in injuries, leaving the workers to deal with a lengthy process of coping, recovering, and getting proper compensation for their injuries.

If you’ve been involved in such an incident, then you are most likely dreading the months to come. After all, it’s a bleak scenario most don’t want to think about until they are forced to:

• It affects your livelihood and your entire family;
• It can bring a long period of physical recovery;
• Medical bills and treatment can affect your finances;
• It can even force you to find a new job if the injuries are so severe that you are not cleared to work in the refinery again;

However, in the case of a refinery injury, it’s essential to gather yourself quickly, think of the next steps to take and make sure you minimize its effects as much as you can.

Take Immediate Care of Your Injuries

The first and most important step is to take care of yourself. Seek medical help right away, and inform your employer of your situation.

It’s possible to receive some medical care at the site of the accident, but you should also see a doctor of your choosing once your condition is stable. They can help assess your case and the severity of your injury, which will be useful when seeking compensation.

Seek Legal Counsel

If you’ve been the victim of a refinery accident, then it’s best to hire an attorney to represent your legal interests. Even if your employer offers insurance, a knowledgeable lawyer can help navigate your claims, avoid legal loopholes and get you fair compensation.

Trying to do this all by yourself would be a time-consuming and challenging process. After a refinery accident, your priority should be your health and well being, not trying to understand the complexity of compensation law, insurance policies, or other bureaucratic matters and problems that might arise along the way.

Hire an Experienced Lawyer

Your safest bet is to get the help of an attorney experienced in worker’s compensation cases, especially since this niche comes with a broad set of challenges. Do a bit of online research and look for law firms that have the right expertize to represent you. Some even offer free consultations, so you can set a meeting to discuss your case and see if you’re comfortable with them.

Don’t think that you can sit back and relax once you’ve hired a refinery accident lawyer. Ask to be kept in the loop and be updated regularly. Your attorney shouldn’t make any critical decision without you knowing.

Keep Detailed Accounts of the Events

While your lawyer’s job includes talking to witnesses and securing any documentation related to your accident, you could also take some precautions to speed this process.

For instance, you could create a list of witnesses and other incidents at the refinery. You could also collect all the medical bills you get for receiving treatment for the accident. Share everything with your attorney who will represent you in your worker’s compensation claim.

A Long Way to Go

The process of recovery and rehabilitation depends dramatically on the severity of your injury, though it’s unlikely you’ll be back to work very soon after an accident.

Employer negligence or not, having a professional handle your legal actions can improve your chances of winning a trial or receiving proper compensation. Your priority should always be focusing on your well being, not trying to figure out the legal system on your own.

Viagra isn’t the only way to give yourself a bit of a boost in the bedroom. We take a look at 5 natural alternatives to viagra that could be just what you need.

Let’s face it, sex is great. That basic truth holds up for most no matter who a person is or how old they are.

As a matter of fact, 88% of the people between the ages of 44-59 have sex on average 1-2 times a week! And a lot of that sex is being powered by or, at very least, getting a boost from good old Viagra.

But what if you can’t take the little blue pill for health reasons? What if you’re just against the ingestion of synthetic performance enhancers? Are you doomed?

Nope!

There are actually many natural alternatives to Viagra that you can explore, 5 of which we share with you below!

1. Panax Ginseng

If you’re looking for a natural herbal alternative to Viagra look no further than Panax Ginseng. Panax Ginseng is a staple in Chinese medicine for dealing with erectile dysfunction. What’s even better is that it has a mountain of solid data behind it that says it works!

This natural Viagra alternative performs best for people who have high lipids in their blood or for those who have metabolic syndrome. It can also improve the overall blood flow in your body and help with other diseases.

2. DHEA

Dehydroepiandrosterone (say that 5 times fast) is a naturally occurring hormone within your body. It’s produced by your adrenal glands and helps support healthy production of testosterone in men.

Studies show that men with ED have low levels of DHEA so supplementing more into your diet could help crush your ED woes!

3. Rhodiola Rosea

A study conducted in 2002 found that 26 out of 35 men saw improvement with their ED after taking Rhodiola Rosea for three months. The people who benefited from this study also saw improvement in the way of reduced fatigue and more energy during the day.

Studies are still being conducted on Rhodiola Rosea but early results look promising!

4. Acupuncture

Acupuncture has mixed reviews about its helpfulness as a natural alternative to Viagra solution. Still, those who feel that it has helped them swear by its effectiveness.

In a study conducted in the late ’90s, 39% of participants found that acupuncture helped with their sexual performance. A later 2003 study found that 21% benefited.

While those numbers don’t inspire infinite confidence, acupuncture is a very low-risk procedure and is consequently, worth trying.

5. Yohimbe

This one is a little bit of a fringe suggestion when it comes to Viagra alternatives because there are a fair amount of critics regarding Yohimbe’s effectiveness. Still, some studies have shown that ingestion of it can boost sexual performance.

Yohimbe is essentially bark that’s extracted from African Yohimbe trees.

Be sure to talk to your doctor before trying this solution.

For more delicious indigestible alternatives for ED, discover more of your options!

Wrapping Up Natural Alternatives to Viagra

There you have it! Five natural alternatives to Viagra that can get you off the little blue pill and confidently into the bedroom.

For more of the best online tips on health, lifestyles and more, check out more of our excellent content on We Are Augustines today!

 

Have you ever had a throbbing headache? You will feel like the whole world is crashing on you. The pain can be so destabilizing and uncomfortable. Productivity will certainly reduce. However, several factors are responsible for this condition. But whatever they are, know that you can always deal with headaches. It’s just like finding the best mypaper helper. When you know the right thing to do, your sore head won’t trouble you for long. Check out these five steps to combat headaches.

1. Be physically active

Exercise has numerous benefits, and one of them is to relieve headaches. Blood circulation tends to increase when you exercise even for a few minutes. It can also help to ease you of a tension headache. Exercises can also help the whole body to relax properly.

You can perform any exercise. Even if you sweat a little, you will still enjoy the benefits. But if you have a headache, try to take things slowly when you move your body.

2. Don’t strain those eyes

Most jobs require staring at a computer for long hours. If this sounds like something you are into, know that a headache might result from this action. Staring at a mobile device for long eyes can also cause this problem. It’s a sign of stress that you can address. It could also be something else.

To avoid having a sore head in this kind of situation, learn to take frequent breaks when working. You can also adjust the brightness of your screen, so you don’t get to strain your eyes.

However, if you already have a headache, then its best you stay away from the computer for the rest of the day, or until your condition improves. Forcing yourself to work may even worsen the situation.

3. Avoid chewing

If you are trying to deal with a headache, then avoid chewing. Irrespective of the item, understand that chewing can hurt your jaw and head the more. Avoid chewing gums, fingernails, lips or even the inside of your cheek or any object such as a pen.

What about food? Yes, food is also essential. Avoid any sticky or crunchy foods too. Even if you have to eat them, you should not consume too much.

4. Have a good rest

Most times, headaches come as a warning sign. It could be a sign of hunger or that you are overworking yourself. When you are hungry, your body will alert you that you are running out of supplies. A headache is also one of the signals. Besides hunger, stress is also a common factor that gives rise to a headache. It’s a sign for you to slow down and have a break.

The advice here is to relax when you notice a headache forming. Take your mind off whatever you are doing at this moment. And if possible, close your eyes for some minutes or hours. And sleep in a well-ventilated and quiet dark room for a couple of minutes.

5. Go for a gentle massage

Massage is still another way to deal with a headache effectively, although many consider it to be an old-fashion. The gentle pressure applied to one’s temple can help relieve pain. Even if the person massaging you doesn’t have much experience, know that any form of rubdown might still contribute.

This process doesn’t need to last for hours. Understand that 30 minutes is enough to improve your psychological state and reduce stress. And, like searching for essay help online, you can check for the different styles and areas to message, so you can advise the individual assisting you.

Conclusion

Many things can cause headaches. It could be a clear sign of an impending sickness, hunger or something else. However, most headaches are stress related. But you can deal with all of them by taking the right steps. A good rest, exercise or massage can help you overcome the situation.

Do you experience abdominal pain some few hours after eating a meal? Stomach ulcers could cause this.  Statistics reveal that about 5 million of the American population live with this disease. Ulcers can be found in the duodenum, stomach or esophagus.

Many of us assume that all forms of ulcers come from stress or acidic food. Doctors differ with this saying that a lot of ulcers come from a bacterial infection. Acids in the stomach can also lead to ulcers since they can destroy the digestive tract lining. This occurs in people whose bodies produce excess acid. These are only some of the causes of ulcers. Today, we aim at helping you manage ulcers caused by different factors by discussing the symptoms and coping strategies.

What are the signs that you have stomach ulcers?

This disease comes with a burning sensation that often occurs after eating. Some people bloat after meals while others have stomach cramping. It is possible to vomit or experience nausea from ulcers. The stool may get dark, or you may suffer from diarrhea.

Some people lose weight due to the loss of appetite while others have difficulties sleeping because of stomach pains. You may also experience heartburns or dehydration. Fatigue and weakness are also possible symptoms of ulcers.

How to cope with ulcers

Seek medical treatment

Ulcers are painful, and they can threaten your life. The best option you have is to seek medical help to identify the cause of the condition. Apart from the bacteria we mentioned above, ulcers can also come from autoimmune disorders. Some of these include ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. A doctor can diagnose the symptoms you are facing to determine the right form of treatment.

Use antibiotics

Ulcers that is caused by bacterial infection is controlled through the use of antibiotics. These destroy the bacteria in the body so that it can stop affecting the lining of the digestive tract. You can also take proton pump inhibitors which control how much acid is produced in the stomach. Inhibitors such as lansoprazole and omeprazole can heal ulcers.

You can also take antacids

This is another form of medication which neutralize stomach acids. Antacids act as pain relievers since they can minimize the symptoms of ulcers. Some of them also contain alginate medicine which generates a coating that protects the stomach lining from acids.

Maintain a journal

You can monitor the intensity of pain caused by ulcers using a pain journal. Write down the foods that you take as well as your daily activities. Use the journal to track any common patterns that trigger the pain. It can help you know which activities aggravate it.

Do not overeat

Your meal portions can affect the symptoms either positively or negatively. Taking a lot of food makes your stomach work twice as hard to digest it all. This leads to high production of stomach acid. Use small plates to maintain small portions that do not affect your stomach’s activities. Do not continue eating when you feel full. Take a lot of water to help in the digestion and minimize any pain.

Eat the right foods

Look for foods that are rich in flavonoids since these are known to contain healing properties. Flavonoids also provide your stomach lining with a coating to prevent it from getting destroyed by the acid. You can get flavonoids from some fruits and vegetables such as apples and broccoli. Do not take citrus fruits since they can cause stomach irritation.

You can also look for foods which have polyphenols. These act as antioxidants to prevent the abdomen from ulcers. They can also cure ulcers. Such foods include dark chocolate, dried rosemary, and black olives.

Your sensitive stomach does not need acidic or greasy foods. Such only trigger the production of the high amount of acid in the stomach and aggravate the condition. Fried foods contain a lot of fat that can cause discomfort and pain.

Not all drinks are safe for ulcers. Some can lead to pain due to increased acid in the stomach. Stay away from sugary beverages and carbonated drinks. You should also minimize your intake of caffeine and citrus drinks since they extend the healing process.

Avoid alcohol and drugs

Alcohol has harmful contents that can worsen ulcers since it encourages bacterial infection that destroys the lining of your digestive system. Visit alcohol rehab today if you are struggling with the use of alcohol and break the cycle safely.

Smoking other drugs are also unhealthy when you have ulcers. It makes your body produce more acid than it should release. It can also cause a peptic ulcer to people who carry H.pylori bacteria. Quitting this habit will keep your body organs safe from diseases and minimize symptoms of infections.

Reduce stress

Whether the cause of your ulcers is stress or not, you need to manage these levels. The connection between the gut and the brain is strong, and stress can affect your digestion. Therefore, practice yoga or meditation as you increase your physical activities. Deep breathing exercises will give you a calming effect to regulate the production of acids in your body.

Take probiotics

Probiotics are also an effective treatment for healing ulcers. They contain living yeast and bacteria that your digestive system needs to function appropriately. They also destroy the H.pylori bacteria that causes ulcers. You can get probiotics from yogurt, Miso, Buttermilk or supplements.

Avoid taking NSAID drugs

This is also another cause of stomach ulcers. Studies reveal that people who take this pain relievers daily are at high risk of developing ulcers. Drugs such as ibuprofen used to relieve pain and treat fever are forms of NSAID. They interfere with the digestive system by lowering the production of enzymes in the stomach. Your body needs these enzymes to protect the lining of the stomach from acid.

Final thoughts

The techniques above can help you treat stomach ulcers without the need of undergoing surgery. It starts with improving your immunity and maintaining proper nutrition. A healthy lifestyle is also crucial in controlling ulcers.

A bit of teenage trouble is expected, but when you think your child is experimenting with drugs, it’s time to get serious. Here’s how to deal with it.

Nearly 50 percent of all teenagers have tried drugs at some point in their lives.

That’s a scary percentage, and it’s even scarier when your kid becomes a part of that number. Teenage trouble with drugs is serious, and it’s something you’ll want to address as soon as you suspect it.

But how are you supposed to do that?

Take a look at this guide to learn what you should do if you think your teenager is taking drugs.

Signs Your Teen Might Have a Drug Problem

You might be able to spot the signs of a substance abuse problem before you find any concrete evidence to support them, read more here. Don’t ignore these signs. If you suspect your teenager is struggling with drugs or alcohol, you should get them help as soon as possible.

If you aren’t sure what to look for, keep an eye out for changes in appearance and behavior.

Changes in Appearance

Changes in appearance vary depending on what substance your teenager is using. But if you notice any of the following warning signs with your teen, they could be good indications your teen is using drugs.

Here’s a quick list of things to watch out for:

• Flushed cheeks
• Red eyes
• Sweating
• Slurred speech
• Poor personal hygiene
• Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants all the time, even when it’s hot
• Uncontrollable shakes
• Running noses, even if they aren’t sick
• Nosebleeds
• Bruises or other wounds they can’t explain
• Track marks
• Weird, unfamiliar smell on their clothes or breath
• Frequent licking of the lips

These changes might also be harder to spot than they seem. Your child might chew mint gum or eat breath mints to cover up scents. They can also cover physical signs with clothing and makeup.

Changes in Habit

Your teenager might not show any interest in their normal hobbies or activities. They might spend more time by themselves, stay out later at night, or hang out with a new group of friends.

These changes can be hard to pinpoint or connect with drug abuse. If your teen has a drastic change in habits or personality at the same time, you might want to consider drugs or alcohol as a possible root.

Secretive Behavior

Some of these secretive behaviors might include locking the bedroom door, sneaking out at night, not telling you where they’re going, staying away from the house for long periods of time, or missing classes at school.

Because their drug habit is expensive, some teenagers steal to sustain it. You might notice your teen becoming more withdrawn and avoiding direct eye contact with you.

Other Signs

In some cases, you might find the drugs or alcohol. Other times, you have to look for smaller clues. If the car your teen drives comes home with unexplainable dents, they might be driving while under the influence.

Another sign of drug use is finding containers or another packaging inside the home you don’t recognize. Many teens also take their family members prescription drugs.

Know How to React to Teenage Trouble with Drugs

Your first natural reaction to learning your teenager is taking drugs or drinking alcohol might be anger. But don’t get aggressive with your teenager. Yelling at them or trying to punish them doesn’t do much to help the problem.

Getting angry with your child might cause their drug problem to get worse. They might respond by becoming more rebellious or turn to the drugs if they believe you’re upset with them.

This doesn’t mean you can’t be angry.

You can and should be stern. Stay away from explosive behaviors that might drive your child away. Focus on showing how you support them instead.

Have a Talk with Your Teenager

If you suspect your child is struggling with substance abuse, you should sit down and have a talk with them. This can give you more information on how to help them and give them a way out. Some teenagers want help but don’t know how to ask for it.

Make sure the place you talk is quite. Don’t pick a public location that is full of distractions. Try to catch your teenager when they’re calm and in a good mood.

Wait Until Your Teenager is Lucid

This might sound obvious, but many parents attempt to have a conversation with their teenagers when they’re high or drunk. This won’t accomplish anything. Always wait until your child is lucid so they understand the importance and seriousness of the conversation.

Be Direct

You want to confront your teenager, but you should do it in a calm and loving way. If you’re yelling and threatening to punish them, there’s a good chance they won’t open up to you.

The teenager might try to downplay the problem. They might deny using drugs or say they only use them every once in a while. At this time you can explain that you don’t want them using drugs at all.

It’s okay to put consequences to their behavior. But makes sure you stay calm while doing so.

Ask Open-Ended Questions

Teenagers tend to tell you more about their drug use if you ask open-ended questions. These questions might include, “Can you tell me more?” or “How can I help you?”

It’s important to remain non-judgemental. You can also ask them what they think you should do about their drug use.

Show Your Support, Don’t Punish Them

While their behavior should have consequences, normal punishments aren’t going to work. Grounding your teenager or taking their phone away isn’t going to make them stop using drugs or drinking alcohol.

While you’re talking with them, make sure you show them how much you love them and how you’re there to support them. If they’re honest about their drug use, let them know you’re thankful for what they’ve told you.

Get Your Child into Treatment

It’s important to get your teenager the proper treatment as soon as possible. Talking with a therapist or taking them to a rehabilitation facility will help them on their road to recovery.

Be firm about your choice to get them help. If they’re underage, the choice isn’t up to them. Don’t let them control it. When you’re dealing with teenage trouble over 18, you can leverage things like financial help and living situations to persuade them into treatment as well.

Looking for the right treatment facility for your teenager? Here are five good reasons to consider a Christian rehab center.

We hear the words “life insurance” many times throughout adulthood but do we really understand its importance. Here is why life insurance is important.

The share of Americans who don’t have life insurance has nearly doubled over the last 30 years, jumping from about 20% in the late 80’s to just under 40% today.

Who wants to meet face to face with an insurance agent, or go through the process of getting a medical exam?

Then there’s the matter of cost. Of the four in 10 American adults who don’t have a life insurance policy, the majority blame high costs for their decision not to get one.

However, do these inconveniences outweigh the reasons why life insurance is important?

Read on to find out why buying a life insurance policy is one of the best decisions you can make for your family.

1. Your Family Relies on Your Income

Are you the primary breadwinner in your family?

Even if you’re not, most families need multiple earners to enjoy a comfortable life in modern society. In fact, 42% of kids living in a one-parent household are below the poverty line, over three times the rate of kids in two-parent families.

A good insurance plan ensures your loved ones can cover all their monthly expenses on their own.

But don’t just settle for any coverage you can get, as some companies are more trustworthy than others. Start by comparing online life insurance quotes in order to find the best policy for you and your family.

2. Burials Are Far from Cheap

Here’s a scary thought: If something happens to you today, a funeral would set your family back about $11k. This includes the cost of everything from the casket to body prep to the transportation.

Imagine how distraught those closest to you would be if they lose you out of the blue. Now think about them having to shell out thousands of dollars during a time they need it the most.

Also, keep in mind that the money spent on a funeral is enough to feed your entire family for the next year and a half.

3. Your Kids Will Struggle to Pay for Their Own Education

Did you know one in three Americans in their 20’s and 30’s owe more than $30k in student loan debt?

Not to mention, over twice as many owe at least $10k.

This level of debt puts unnecessary stress on young adults trying to make their mark on the world. If you want your kids to focus on their studies without having a hard time sleeping at night, cover their back with a life insurance policy.

Final Thoughts on Why Life Insurance Is Important

Accidents claim more than 130,000 lives per year in the US. Meanwhile, heart disease and cancer combine for over a million more deaths.

Unpredictability like this reminds us why life insurance is important for the well-being of our loved ones. And if you’re young, consider this: premiums become more costly as you age and your health declines.

Want to stay healthy and be around for your family as long as possible? If so, head over to the health section of our blog for invaluable tips and guides on leading a healthier lifestyle!

Can You Quit Smoking by Vaping? Here’s What You Need to Know

When you try to quit smoking, sometimes it’s helpful to ease into it. Here are all the facts you need to know about quitting smoking with vaping.

Quitting smoking is a nasty, difficult, overwhelming, daunting, thing.

That’s clear to most people who attempt to do it. At the same time, though, it is one of the most important things that a smoker can do to improve their health. Because of this, anything that a person can do to quit is something to consider.

Quitting smoking with vaping is a viable option, and we’re here to give you some facts about the process.

Quitting Smoking With Vaping

Vaping has undergone a long history, coming to a point of sophistication that no one could have imagined a few decades ago. The e-cigarette was envisioned almost one hundred years ago, with the original designs coming out primitive and difficult to use.

It took humanity around 80 years to come out with an electronic cigarette that was safe, effective, and ready to be put on the market. Hon Lik, a Chinese engineer, came up with the design shortly after his father had passed from lung cancer. A smoker himself, Hon needed a way to effectively quit.

And so he created one. The electronic cigarette was the first iteration of the vape, and we’ve grown to a point where nearly any smoker can find a vaporizer that will suit them.

Why Not Just Go Cold Turkey?

By all means, if you can manage to quit cold turkey, you should. Most people can’t, though. You need a little crutch while you’re making your way out the door.

Most people claim that their addiction is a result of one of two things: either their body needs the nicotine or they’re addicted to the physical routine of smoking. The vaporizer can satisfy both of these needs while you’re weaning off of cigarettes.

The nicotine contained in cigarettes can be easily matched by the nicotine in a vaporizer. You can boost up your nicotine levels to ones much higher than those contained in any cigarette. You can also slowly reduce your nicotine intake while vaping the same amount. This article has a great detailed explanation of this.

This is a great way to wean off of nicotine and get your body used to a natural state. As for the physical routine, vaping is almost identical to smoking. You draw with the same hand motions and inhalation, and it can be done nearly anywhere without the stink of a cigarette.

Additionally, there is no problem vaping in public and where people normally smoke cigarettes. People are also attracted to cigarettes because they’re a social thing. So are vapes, and there’s no logical excuse for you to shun vaping around people who normally smoke.

Sure, smoking gives a little-unspoken bond, like “Hey, we’re all dying together, right?” But ask yourself, is being cool with a few people worth dying a painful death of cancer?

Get the Facts Straight

There is no shortage of people who deny the results of quitting smoking with vaping. That’s fine, but don’t take their word for it. You need to find out for yourself what vaping could do for you.

If you’re interested in learning more about things you can do to improve your life, we’ve got the information you need.

Kratom has a lot of health benefits and can cause a slight euphoric feeling. But is kratom addictive? Kratom has pros and cons. Here’s your guide.

If you’re at all interested in natural healing and alternative wellness information, you’ve probably heard some people praising a drug called kratom. You may have also heard some people, on the other side of the aisle, cautioning against it.

So, is kratom addictive? Is it safe for you to use?

There’s a lot of conflicting information about this drug that is circulating the internet, and it’s hard to know what to believe and what to write off.

If you’re interested in trying kratom but are worried about the potentially negative effects, keep reading.

Some of the pros and cons of kratom are listed below. With this information in mind, you’ll have a much easier time deciding if kratom is right for you.

What Is Kratom?

Before getting into the pros and cons of using kratom, it’s important to understand what it is.

Kratom (scientifically known as mitragyna speciosa) is a type of tropical evergreen tree.

It grows in South Asian countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Myanmar.

The leaves of the kratom tree (specifically extracted from these leaves) contain a number of medicinal benefits. They’ve been used for a long time to treat pain, digestive issues, and to help relieve symptoms associated with opium withdrawal.

The primary active ingredients of kratom leaves are two types of alkaloids (compounds that have a physical effect on humans): mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.

How Does Kratom Work?

Mitragynine and hydroxymitragynine both bind to the brain’s naturally occurring opioid receptors. This is why kratom leaves can help relieve pain and aid in opiate withdrawal.

Pros of Using Kratom

There are many benefits associated with using kratom, including the following:

Pain Relief

Compounds found in kratom can increase the release of dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters associated with pain relief. They work very quickly and can make a big difference to people who struggle with chronic pain.

Improved Immune System

Kratom leaves are also rich in antioxidants. They can help prevent and eliminate oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. This, in turn, allows the immune system to function better and decreases one’s chances of getting sick.

Energy Booster

Kratom, in small doses, can also provide an energy boost. It does this by optimizing metabolic processes and increasing oxygenated blood flow. Many people who struggle with chronic fatigue benefit from using kratom since it provides an energy boost without jitters or other unpleasant side effects.

Reduced Anxiety

Kratom also has anxiolytic benefits for people struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression. This is due, in part, to its effects on the release of serotonin and dopamine. It can also improve sleep quality when consumed in larger quantities.

Addiction Recovery

Many people use kratom to help them successfully wean off of stronger, more harmful opiates. It may also be useful for those who want to stop drinking or using other drugs. Kratom helps dull the effects of withdrawal so that addicts can stop consuming other substances.

Diabetes Treatment

Finally, early research has also shown that the alkaloids in kratom leaves can be beneficial for diabetics. This is because they regulate insulin and blood glucose levels, something diabetics often have a hard time doing on their own. Blood sugar regulation can also decrease one’s risk of developing diabetes at all.

Cons of Using Kratom

Of course, as with any drug, there are also some downsides to using kratom. Some of the most common cons associated with kratom use include:

Side Effects

Some people experience unpleasant side effects when they consume kratom. Common side effects include:

• Upset stomach
• Vomiting
• Mild sedation
• Itching
• Headaches

For most people, these effects are quite mild and don’t last for very long.

Lack of Regulation

The sale of kratom is currently largely unregulated. This means that it can be difficult to tell if you’re buying a quality kratom supplement or a dangerous knock-off that is filled with questionable ingredients.

Negative Drug Interactions

Kratom can also be dangerous when consumed alongside other drugs. Research shows that kratom does not mix well with painkillers or other psychoactive drugs. It can make symptoms worse and increase the risk of overdosing.

Is Kratom Addictive?

The FDA has advised against the use of kratom because of the potential for addiction. Does their position have any merit, though?

Since compounds found in kratom leaves bind to opioid receptors, kratom does have some addictive properties.

It’s important to note, though, that the alkaloids in kratom interact with opioid receptors differently than classical opioids.

Classical opioids trigger the recruitment of proteins known as beta-arrestins. Beta-arrestin is responsible for many of the negative effects that are associated with opioid addiction.

Kratom, on the other hand, does not recruit beta-arrestin. Because of this, kratom appears to be less habit-forming than classical opioids.

How they interact with the opioid receptor is distinctly different from classical opioids.

Some people do experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using kratom. However, research shows that the withdrawal symptoms that occur after giving up kratom are significantly milder than the symptoms that occur after giving up classical opiates.

How to Use Kratom Safely

If you’re interested in using kratom, it’s important to make sure you’re doing so safely. This will help you avoid unpleasant side effects and decrease the risk of addiction.

Consume the Right Dosage

Consuming the right amount of kratom is the first step to enjoying it safely.

First, figure out why you want to use it. If you’re looking for increased energy, it’s best to consume a small dose of five grams or less.

If you’re looking for more sedating effects (improved sleep or pain relief), a higher dose of between 10 and 25 grams is more effective.

Buy from a Reputable Source

Most people purchase kratom online.

If you’re going to take this approach, be sure to research the company and learn as much about their manufacturing processes as possible. How is their kratom grown? What other ingredients are added to their supplements?

You can view here to learn more about buying high-quality kratom.

Don’t Combine It with Other Drugs

Finally, avoid combining kratom with any other drugs. This will help reduce your risk of overdose and help you avoid unpleasant and potentially life-threatening side effects.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, the answer to the question, “is kratom addictive?” isn’t exactly a simple one. There are lots of benefits to consuming kratom, but there are also some drawbacks that you ought to take into account.

If you’re interested in using kratom and think the pros outweigh the cons, be sure to buy from a reputable source. Keep the safety tips listed above in mind, too, to increase your chances of having a positive experience.

Want to learn more about the latest natural health supplements? Be sure to check out the health section of our site today.

Why Go Organic? 7 Important Things You Need to Know

Eating organic foods can be a bit more expensive, but the health benefits well outweigh the costs. If you’re still wondering “Why go organic?” then this post is for you. Here are 7 of the most important reasons to make the change today.

Have you noticed the increase in organic produce at the grocery store? Fruits and vegetables have organic options that cost more than the non-organic.

If you’re put off by the price, you’re not alone. Why go organic? If you learn why they cost more, you’ll see that the price of organic food is very worth it.

You can remove toxins from your body, increase nutrient intake, and help the environment. All you have to do is switch to organic items at the grocery store. Read on to learn more.

1. Less Pollution to the Environment

Regular farms use pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals in their crops. These pollutants soak into the soil and spread across the area through rainwater. Farming with these chemicals is very dangerous to the environment.

From the soil, the chemicals enter bodies of water and the ocean. They kill plants and organisms that are necessary for preserving the environment.

But, organic farming uses zero pesticides or chemicals. They preserve the soil through crop rotation. Any rainwater run-off from their farms is harmless to the environment.

You don’t have to drive far to find organic food choices. There are stores all over America that make it convenient. You can learn more about how shopping organic is better for the environment.

2. Promotes Biodiversity

There’s lots of concern over the loss of biodiversity because of corporate farming. The chemicals used not only hurt the environment but kill off integral species.

Pesticides kill pests that may eat the crop. But, they also kill helpful bugs, insects, and plants.

By not killing off bacteria and fungi with pesticides, you get the benefits they bring. Bacteria in the soil is great for breaking down plant matter and animal waste. It recycles it back into the soil making it richer and healthier.

Organic farming aims to work alongside nature, so there’s less threat of extinction. These farms allow the co-living of wildlife and organisms with their crops.

Organic farms embrace the natural role of many insects and animals. Wildlife can live alongside organic farming without destroying each other.

3. No Hormones or Antibiotics

Conventional farms use antibiotics to keep the livestock healthy and avoid sickness. While this sounds good in theory, it’s not.

These farms can raise the animals in unsanitary conditions because they know they’re unlikely to get sick.

It’s also normal for conventional farms to inject the livestock with growth hormones. In the poultry industry, the chickens grow so big their legs can’t hold them up to stand. It’s cruel to the animals and bad for us.

Antibiotics and hormones stay in the meat long after the animal dies. Then, we buy it at the store and ingest those antibiotics and hormones.

Buying organic means your meat is free of antibiotics and hormones.

4. No GMOs

Genetically modified organisms (GMO) are scientifically created living organisms. They can be bacteria, vegetables, insects, etc.

Conventional farms use GMOs to prevent pests from eating their crop. They can also extend the shelf life of certain foods and make them resistant to disease.

Unfortunately, GMOs are dangerous for humans to ingest. One specific GMO, Bt-toxin, kills pests by destroying their stomachs. This GMO causes leaky gut in humans.

We are what we eat. And, we don’t know enough about GMOs to make them safe for human consumption. It’s safer to choose organic produce.

5. More Nutritious

Many different nutrients in our food depend on good soil. Studies show that produce grown in chemical ridden soil has substantially fewer nutrients.

Organic vegetables have lower levels of heavy metals. Some common heavy metals found in our food are arsenic, mercury, and lead.

These metals are carcinogenic and can also cause sickness. Choosing organic produce removes the risk of consuming heavy metals like these.

Since organic farmers take better care of their soil, the crop has better access to nutrients. Plants grown in organic crops have more flavonoids than conventionally grown plants. This means they have more cancer-fighting properties.

Some nutrients that we need are drastically lower in conventionally farmed foods. For example, iron, vitamin C, and magnesium are all higher in organic foods.

6. More Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3s are crucial to our bodies’ functioning. These healthy fats are necessary for heart health, strong vision, and fighting inflammation.

People who have a deficiency in omega can experience blood clots and mood disorders. Plus, many other health concerns.

Milk and dairy from a conventional farm have 50 percent less omega-3s than organic dairy. That means you might be drinking milk every day but risking an omega 3 deficiency.

You can switch to organic dairy products without noticing a difference in flavor. It doesn’t increase the calorie count to go organic, but it does ensure you get the nutrients you need.

7. More Antioxidants

Non-organic diets are a big concern for antioxidant intake. We need antioxidants to remove free radicals from the bloodstream. And, to keep our immune systems strong and healthy.

Fruits and vegetables are the best sources of antioxidants in our diet. Berries and dark leafy greens have extra high concentrations of them.

Studies show that non-organic produce have 20 percent fewer antioxidants than organic counterparts. This is unsettling because you may believe you’re getting enough antioxidants, but you aren’t. The best way to get all the nutrients you need is by choosing organic.

Still Wondering, “Why Go Organic?”

It’s your responsibility to take care of your health. The more you learn, the more you can do that. Now that you know how important it is to eat organically, what are you going to do?

You may still be asking, “why go organic?” It’s not the popular choice although more and more people are realizing how important it is.

For the sake of your physical health, mental health, and the environment, choose organic foods. If you’d like more information on diet and living a healthy life, check out the blog.