Effective and Safe Herbal Remedies for Phobia

By Ajit Kumar                     

Phobia is a kind of anxiety disorder and a deep irrational fear which causes panic on coming in contact with the source of the fear. This persistent fear of a situation or object can last over six months. The affected person tries his level best to avoid the object or situation to a greater extent than the actual danger. If the person is unable to avoid the situation or object, he suffers from considerable distress. A person can develop phobias to innumerable situations or objects.

Causes of Phobia

Environmental and genetic factors result in phobias. Children who are prone to anxiety disorders are at a greater risk of developing these phobias. Extreme heights, confined spaces, exposure to insect or animal bites or a distressing event like near drowning could be a source of such phobias. Even those people with chronic medical conditions such as substance abuse, depression or brain injuries are prone to developing these phobias.

Symptoms of Phobia

Phobias could be irrational but those suffering from the problem don't fail the reality testing. Various symptoms are exhibited by patients suffering from different kinds of phobias. For example, schizophrenics suffer from auditory, visual, paranoia, delusions and other disorganized symptoms.

Treatment for Phobia

Whatever may be the reason there are effective natural remedies for phobia such as ginseng, lemon or lime, valerian root or lavender oil.

• Lemon or Lime: The juice of a lemon or lime is effective for reducing dizziness or nausea associated with a phobia. Just cut a lemon into two halves and smell it for getting relief during an attack of phobia.
• Ginseng: This herb is known for its energizing and relaxing properties and is used extensively for the treatment of nerves.
• Valerian Root: This herb can be used for the treatment of insomnia. It has the properties for relaxing the nerves and the central nervous system of an agitated person and thereby is used as an effective herbal remedy for the treatment of phobia. Grind 5-6 valerian roots for preparing the herbal remedy. It should be consumed 2-3 times a day for lowering the effects of phobia. However, pregnant and nursing mothers should avoid the consumption of the powder of valerian root.
• Lavender: This is another effective remedy for phobia. Lavender has a soothing effect on the body and has a pleasant smell. Daily lavender oil massage can help in getting rid of an attack of phobia. The best way to lower stress is by adding drops of lavender oil to the bathing water for a relaxing bath.
• Kava: This is a popular herb used for treating and sedating mental patients. It relaxes the mind without hampering the mental clarity of the patients. Consuming the kava herb daily builds up the tolerance level that is helpful in lowering phobia. The standard daily dose of kava is 250 mg.
• Passion Flower: The passion flower is an effective herbal extract that boosts the functioning of the nervous system and brain and helps to maintain the organs in a healthy equilibrium. This natural remedy is effective in controlling phobias and panic.
• Supragya Plus: In addition to the herbal and natural remedies, there are certain ayurvedic remedies for phobia. Supragya plus is one such nerve tonic that strengthens the nerves and resolves the nerve associated problems that include depression, anxiety, phobia, stress, irritability, anger, intolerance, sleeplessness, palpitation and much more.
• Ashwagandha: This is another effective ayurvedic remedy that can be used in the treatment depression, anxiety and other psychiatric conditions related with a phobia. The leaves, roots, and berries of this herb have medicinal properties that prove to be effective in the treatment of an array of mental disorders.

Phobia is a serious mental illness but with a healthy diet, proper exercise and certain natural and ayurvedic remedies the problem can be effectively handled.

Ath Ayurdhamah is dedicated to restoring and maintaining the lost balance between physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health, through the understanding and practice of age-old systems of Ayurveda and Yoga. Our strength lies in understanding the body and its performance at constitutional level and that is what we apply to our Remedies.

Our products manufacturing process uses herbs which have passed through multi-staged & rigorous selection process. We ensure careful selection and sourcing of herbs, minerals and oils from the best sources and appreciate the fact that hygiene and high quality control standards are critical in the manufacturing of these medicines and products to get optimum results. All our products are Approved by Ayush department and we are GMP certified.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Ajit_Kumar/2197082

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Two Keys to Reducing Stress

By Christy Geiger                

What symptoms do you exhibit when stressed? How do they show up for you?

Often stress shows up in a wide variety of ways: physical, mental and emotional.

Physical signs include headaches, muscle tension, upset stomach, restless sleep, shaky/sweaty hands, and fidgeting.
Mental signs include being easily distracted/unable to focus, being more forgetful, having simple issues become exaggerated, and having increased dreaming.
Emotional signs include irritability, short temper, exhaustion, and an inability to make decisions.
How can you relieve or reduce your stress?

TIP #1 - Take Charge.

When you feel in control, you can RESPOND rather than REACT to your environment. You feel more empowered and better able to manage what comes your way. Begin by looking at what you can control and what you cannot.

List the things I control in my life.
List the things that are TRULY out of my control.
What is my attitude towards the things I control? Toward the things, I don't?
What stresses can I say "no" to, eliminate, reduce or delegate in my life?
What can I add to my life that will counteract stress? (meditation, workouts, etc.)
What positive people do I want in my life to support me?
What negative people do I need to spend less time with?
What is most important to me?
Make a list, prioritize, and commit to removing one stressful thing a day!

TIP #2 - Incorporate Exercise.

Regular exercise is one of the best stress-reduction techniques out there. It has multiple stress-relieving benefits:

IMPROVED HEALTH: "Exercising adds life to your years as well as years to your life" through a lowered heart rate and reduced risk of heart disease; it may also prevent certain types of cancer and will increase stamina.
IMPROVED MOOD: Exercising causes the brain to release opium-like substances that ease pain and produce a natural high, giving a sense of well-being and comfort. It also stimulates the brain to secrete serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which act as antidepressants and improve mood (deficiencies can result in depression, anxiety, impulsivity, aggression, and increased appetite).
REDUCED BODY TENSION: Exercising helps relieve pent-up emotions we hold in our muscles. Having a relaxed body allows you to sleep better, have more energy, enhance concentration and memory, and quicken your alertness and reaction time, resulting in an overall feeling of well-being.
CREATE A PLAN:

How can taking charge and exercising affect my stress level?
How do I want to feel after I have planned and exercised-both physically and emotionally?
What can I do to incorporate planning and exercise in my life? (What? When? With whom? For how long?)
GET STARTED TODAY:

Find a friend to exercise with for the recommended minimum of 20-30 minutes a day, 3-5 times a week. Working out with a friend helps to provide a plan for regular routine, accountability, and allows for multitasking so you can brainstorm, encourage or share thoughts with a friend while working out.
Get a personal trainer or join a gym. Push yourself to WORK OUT!
Be conscious about exercising. Park farther away and walk. Take a flight of stairs instead of an elevator. Do sit-ups while watching TV. Take the dog for a morning walk before you shower.
All the benefits of planning and exercise impact your ability to be sharper, move faster and feel better. Taking time to do this will actually give you more time for the other things you need to do and REDUCE YOUR STRESS!

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Christy_Geiger/2434143

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6 Interesting Fitness Classes You Probably Haven't Tried But Should

By Margot Rutigliano                   

Try These 6 Workouts To Mix Up Your Routine
Head to a group fitness class to keep your workout routine interesting, challenging and fun. You'll get the best of both worlds - an fun workout with the structure and guidance necessary from a qualified instructor. There are so many options out there now for group classes. Choose from aerial yoga and rebounding to underwater spinning, cardio circuits, pilates reformer classes and so much more.

You'll usually find a pretty comprehensive schedule at most gyms. Fitness has evolved so much so for the most part, most gyms have a large selection of classes. If you don't find what you're looking for at your gym, there are also great group classes offered at smaller studios and boutique fitness centers that might be worth checking out too. We offer a few of the classes below at our fitness vacation too which provides variety in the daily line up. Either way, if you're looking for something different and feeling like you need a change in your normal line up, check out these classes.

HULA HOOPING CLASS
You probably thought hula hooping was either a thing of the past or something you only did as a kid. Think again! Hula hooping classes have become a fantastic way to move your body in a whole different way. Set to music, you'll move and groove to your instructor's choreography.
Fitness hoops are usually weighted which gives you a little resistance and makes this class more challenging than the regular hooping you might have done years ago. You'll have to stabilize to maintain control and balance all while getting your heart rate up!
According to the American Council On Exercise, you can burn up to 600 calories per hour with this full body workout. Plus, you'll improve flexibility and balance we well as strengthen the muscles in your back, abs, arms and legs. Some gyms even fuse hooping in other classes like Pilates and yoga.

GLIDING
Gliding discs make any workout more challenging. Generally, gliding discs are placed under hands or feet depending on the movement cranking up the intensity level in a non impact kind of way. You'll have to exert more to maintain balance, stability and control while going through movements like lunges, squats, skaters, plank moves, mountain climbers, shuffles and so much more. Sound like fun?
You can try gliding at a local gym or studio. Some classes are all gliding - 50 minutes of upper body, lower body and core work. Some studios may also fuse gliding, like hula, into other fitness classes to mix things up. Either way, the moves are fun and effective. Pro Tip: If you glide at home, you can always use paper plates on carpet or towels on hard wood floors. Be careful of slipping though. Test out a few moves before you get started with a full on workout.

BODYWEIGHT TABATA
Bodyweight tabata is one of our guest's favorite classes at the retreat. This class can be done anywhere but we do it on the beach so the views and the atmosphere make it a whole different ballgame. This fitness class is challenging! Most of the movements are moves that many people have done before - push ups, planks, dips, squats, lunges, power jacks, forearm get ups, fast feet and more. Doesn't sound complicated or hard, right? It's the format and the tempo that change everything for this workout though.
If you're not familiar with Tabata, the format is 20 seconds of intense work followed by 10 seconds of rest 8 times. For example, we would do 20 seconds of push ups x 10 seconds of rest 8 times which is equal to about 4 minutes. 20 seconds of work might not sound like a lot but when you repeat it over and over and over again, it taxes muscles in a really great way. You'll sure to feel the burn with this workout!
Don't worry, you don't have to join us for a fitness vacation just to try out this class. There are plenty of gyms and studios that offer it too. Be on the look out for Tabata or even a HIIT class that uses bodyweight only.

MYOFASCIAL RELEASE
A recovery class, this focuses on releasing tight, tense muscle and connective tissue. In general, we do so much tightening and strengthening and not enough of the recovery work to keep our muscle and fascia relaxed and balanced. Some stretch classes will fuse myofascial release in with them. Other classes may focus solely on deep release or foam rolling.
According to Yoga Medicine, the term myofascial release refers to any technique that works on the muscles and the fascia. There are many different modalities; however, the most common self-myofascial release (SMFR) techniques usually involve the use of balls or foam rollers. The beauty of SMFR is that it can be done with simple tools and training. Which means, it is a very accessible tool.
You will most likely see a blend of group classes and/or private sessions when it comes to this type of recovery work. Either way, it's important as part of a balanced fitness routine. It's also important to do it correctly so although you could do this at home, I would highly recommend taking at least one class or session from a professional to learn proper technique.

AERIAL YOGA OR AERIAL SILKS
Depending on the fitness center and/or class, you might see this termed either as aerial yoga or aerial silks. Either way, get ready for a totally different yoga experience! These classes are basically a combination of yoga and acrobatics. You'll explore asanas from a supportive material (like a hammock) that hangs from the ceiling. This support will give you less joint compression during certain inversions and better range of motion for other poses like hip opening pigeon.
Now, this might sound tricky but it's not as crazy as it sounds on paper. You don't need prior experience but be sure to let the instructor know it's your first time. Although you'll be using material suspended from the ceiling, your feet will still be able to touch the ground. As you practice this type of yoga, you'll get a chance to improve your strength and flexibility. We all need a little bit of that!

APPARATUS BALANCE TRAINING
A whole class dedicated to balance training? Yes! Channel your inner gymnast - OK not really but get ready to improve your balance and coordination. Balance training is great for everyone. It's something we practice at the retreat on a consistent basis. What makes these types of classes fun for people though is the inclusion of different pieces of equipment.
For example, we use small stability discs, larger balance aids like the Bosu and even balance tools that resemble a balance beam to strengthen feet and ankles, challenge balance and refine the mind body connection. It makes the class challenging and fun all at the same time. Many of the movements require focus and concentration making this class a totally different experience. It's tough and challenging but it goes by quickly because you have to really think about what you're doing.
Check your local fitness studio for balance classes. Again, you may see fusion classes that incorporate a combination of balance and strength or balance and core so be on the lookout for creative names and read descriptions.

SPICING UP YOUR FITNESS
Have fun with fitness! Try new workouts to keep your head and your body in the game. Change is always good and it's fun to mix it up with interesting workouts. You might find a new favorite fitness class! If you're unsure of the classes and what they entail, ask an employee so you can get a better understanding of what you might be getting into.

Enjoy trying something new. Don't get discouraged if you have a little bit of a hard time in that first class. It's normal! Give yourself a break and a chance to learn a new activity. Most instructors will offer modifications but feel free to as for one if you're uncomfortable or unsure of an exercise.

If you're not sure where to start or where to look for classes, check out Class Pass. It's a great way to try out a bunch of different classes and studios in your area.

Margot Rutigliano is a freelance writer as well as the owner of Vita Vie Retreat. She has been a fitness trainer, wellness coach and healthy living adviser since 1999. Vita Vie Retreat is a fitness retreat offering healthy lifestyle transformation programs for men and women of all ages and fitness levels. For more information or to contact Ms. Rutigliano, please visit http://www.bvretreat.com.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Margot_Rutigliano/1080973

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Trying To Build Muscle Requires a Proper Exercise Routine And The Correct Diet

By Paul Luciw 

Working out is way that can give you a healthy life style. Many people work out to lose weight or gain muscle mass. What ever your reason is your work out routine must involve exercises that will help you met your goals. Of course you will have to complement your work out routine with the correct diet.

There are many diets that have been developed over the years. Some of these diets are ideal for weight loss and others are best for gaining muscle. The key to both of these diets is eating healthy. A healthy life style is also key to losing weight or gaining muscle mass. You will need to come up with an exercise routine that suits your work schedule. This will require some research and you will have to work hard to make you exercise routine work.

There are a number of diets that have proven to be successful for weight loss. These include the smoothie diet, vegan diet, paleo diet and the Atkins diet. These diets will produce results but will require that you follow the plan. Some of these diets are better suited for different people, depending on their life styles

The smoothie diet has proven to be successful for many people. However this diet can be misleading because some people eat to many fruits and not enough vegetables in their smoothie mixes. You will have to stick to the guidelines when using this type of diet.

Another diet to consider is the vegan diet. The food you will be consuming will have no animal products in it. This includes eggs and all dairy products such as yogurt and cheese. You will probably need vitamin supplements, but once you figure out the proper types of food to consume, your body will become rejuvenated. This type of diet is the extreme version vegetarianism.

Another type of diet to consider is the paleo diet. This diet allows you to eat animal protein. This diet is useful building lean muscle mass. You will have to stick to whole grain food. What you eat using dietary this system can work in your favor if you are trying to gain weight. The weight you will gain will be lean muscle. This dietary system will give you protein, healthy fats and carbohydrates from fruits and vegetables. You will be able to include chicken and fish in this diet. This system is based on what dietary experts think people used to eat before we started to plow the soil and lost our hunter and gatherer roots. Hence the term paleolithic diet.

If you are serious about building muscle consider the anabolic diet. This diet is a muscle-building diet and a weight loss dietary system. It alternates low carbohydrate food days with high carbohydrate food days.

Whatever your weight loss or muscle-building goals are do some research to consider what is best for you. If possible seek the advice of a nutritionist or health care professional.

Best Regards.

Did you know one of the worst component in your diet is the sugar that is added into almost everything we eat. Click here to learn more.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Paul_Luciw/816160

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Your Body After 65 Years of Age

By Dr Richard L Travis                   

YOUR BODY after 65 Years of Age

Well if you have hit 65, you probably already have noticed changes in your body. It is almost inevitable that we will sag, wrinkle, creek and have skin issues.

HINT: Hairs may appear where and when you least expect them:

This is more of a male issue, but not totally. Out of nowhere 2-inch hairs stick out of your ears or eyebrows. Those hairs weren't there yesterday, were they? It's a mystery. So, pluck them out with tweezers, or cut them with little scissors, or get one of those little battery run hair trimmers that stick up into your nose or into your ears. But whatever you do, please trim them. It's difficult to hold a conversation with someone when you are faced with a 2- or 3-inch hair protruding from someone's nostril or eyebrow or nose.

HINT: Give permission to your spouse or someone close to give you the hair report:

It would be great if you had someone who could safely and nicely point out to you that you have an alien hair growing on your chin, or wherever. Try to find that person, and don't be offended when they point it out.

HINT: Go to the Barber at least once a month if not more often:

Women are usually much better about grooming than men, especially when it comes to the hair on their head. Men do you realize how bad the back of your neck looks with all that curly grey hair on it? It is not sexy or appealing in any way. If you can't get your spouse to give the back of your neck a quick shave once a week, it is going to start looking nasty soon.

HINT: Men really need to shave Daily:

Even if you are retired, unless you are a mountain man, or on an extended camping trip with your buddies, please shave daily. It is not attractive to see that stubble, and it will give you something to do each day. (It even makes your face more kissable.)

HINT: Brown spots, growths, and skin tags appear magically:

If you escape spots and growths and skin tags, then I hope you are grateful. Your Dermatologist will usually remove skin tags, or you can go to YOUTUBE and see different ways to do it at home. But if you get brown spots and crusty growths, common for people of some cultures, you will have to live with them or see a plastic surgeon. Some beauty products are available to bleach out some brown spots, but you could spend a king's fortune on creams and potions to remove wrinkles and spots and not see much change. There are some products that have helped people with brown spots, but I would suggest seeing a cosmetologist for a consultation.
A good dermatologist is worth his/her weight in gold. Not only can they keep your skin cancer free, but they can offer advice about skin issues you may have, and the dermatologist may lead you to some helpful solutions. As we age, most of us could benefit by going to a dermatologist at least once a year, but I suggest twice.

HINT: We all wrinkle:

It is difficult looking into the mirror and seeing your mom's or grandmother's face looking back at you. Your wrinkles don't have to define you. You could spend a great deal of money going through plastic surgery to have a youthful-looking face, but sadly most of us can see that you "had some work done." If it makes you feel better about yourself, and you can afford it, then do it. If not, live with your wrinkles with class. You earned them, but don't wear them as a badge of honor. Let people see your heart and your loving personality clearer than your wrinkles.

HINT: Get prepared for some sagging:

Most people can't escape the sagging underarms, the sagging breasts, and rear-end that happens as we age. You can stay fit, and it may help you some, but a little pouch above the belt or below the belt also develops for most people. Weight changes may have some effect on sagging and pouches, but this is a very, very common phenomenon for people as they age no matter what their weight.

This article is taken from the new Kindle book on Amazon: " Senior Moments: A Guide to Aging Safely and Gracefully" by Dr. Richard L. Travis

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Dr_Richard_L_Travis/1901657

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The Benefits Of Berberine

By Abdul Waheed Zafar 

As far as natural supplements are concerned, berberine is a popular compound. It's found in a lot of plants like Goldenseal, Phellodendron, tree turmeric, oregan grape and barberry. This bright yellow compound is used as a dye. Besides, it's used in conventional Chinese medicine and in Ayurveda in order to treat microbial infections, gastrointestinal conditions, and oriental sores, just to name a few. Let's take a look at some benefits of berberine.

Uses of berberine

This compound is popular as it helps manage a lot of age-related conditions like diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol. Let's discuss some important benefits it offers.

1. Regulates your blood sugar levels

If you don't have enough insulin in your body, you may develop insulin resistance, which can increase your blood sugar levels. This may damage your body cells, organs, blood vessels, and nerves. So, taking berberine can help regulate your blood sugar levels.

2. Helps you manage your weight

Obesity can result in a lot of health conditions like depression, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiac disease. Although exercise is an ideal way of losing weight, it may not be possible for everyone to lose weight with exercise. Therefore, taking berberine supplements is a good alternative.

For instance, if you take 500mg of this supplement per day for twelve weeks, you can lose around 5lbs. This is a great way of losing way, and the good thing is that you won't have to spend hours in the gym lifting heavy weights.

3. Regulates your cholesterol levels

Heart disease is on the list of the most common causes of death in the world. In the US, around 2,300 patients die because of cardiovascular disease on an annual basis. According to estimates, around 17.9 million people lose their lives because of CVDs across the globe.

Berberine can reduce lipid levels in your blood in addition to reduce intracellular cholesterol. Besides, this compound can reduce the dietary cholesterol in your small intestine. Also, it can increase your HDL as well, which is good for your health.

Is Berberine good for Anti-Aging?

Berberine is a good AMPK enzyme activator. Therefore, it helps as an effective longevity booster and anti-aging agent. Aside from this, it may also promote your mitochondrial function and health.

Why should you supplement with berberine?

Your endocrine system is quite important for your tissue function, metabolism, development, and growth. As you get older, this system is affected by your physiological and biological changes. So, it interferes with the catabolism, production and secretion of chemicals and hormones.

Therefore, taking berberine supplements is a great idea to restore the balance. These supplements are good for the endocrine system of glands. As far as anti-aging supplements are concerned, this one is best.

The takeaway

In short, berberine is an ideal supplement for you if you are looking for a way to lose weight, reduce cholesterol levels and prevent a lot of conditions. Many experts recommend berberine as one of the most effective supplements out there. It slows down your aging process and triggers your endocrine system. So, taking these supplements is a great idea.

You can take a look at YouthandEarth if you want to purchase berberine supplements for longevity and anti-aging.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Abdul_Waheed_Zafar/1306631

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What Is CBD Oil?

By Shalini M

In this article, we are going to find out what CBD is and how it can work for your benefit. In June 2018, The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allowed the use of CBD oil for the treatment of 2 types of epilepsy. So, it can be said that CBD does work as far as the treatment of some specific conditions or diseases is concerned. Let's find out more.

What is CBD oil?

CBD is on the list of several compounds called cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Many research studies have been done to find out different therapeutic uses of this oil.

Basically, CBD oil contains concentrated form of CBD. However, it's important to keep in mind that the concentrations and their uses vary. So, you may want to consult an expert before using CBD for your condition.

Is CBD marijuana?

In cannabis, the best-known compound is delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol aka THC, according to most reports. And THC is the most active part of marijuana. As a matter of fact, marijuana has both CBD and THC in it. And the effects of both these compounds vary.

When smoked or used in cooking, THC imparts a "high" effect. Actually, THC tends to break down in heat or when it enters the body. On the other hand, CBD is not psychoactive, which means it has no effect on your state of mind when consumed.

But CBD can create changes in your body. In fact, according to some research studies, it may have many medical benefits as well.

Where does it come from?

CBD is obtained from the cannabis plant. Commonly, cannabis plant is known as marijuana or hemp based on the degree of THC. It's important to note that legal hemp plants mustn't contain more than 0.3% THC, according to Farm Bill.

Marijuana farmers have bred their hemp plants to produce more THC and many other compounds. However, these farmers don't modify the plant in any way. These plants are used to produce CBD oil.

How does it work?

All types of cannabinoids attach to some specific receptors in your body to create a special effect. And the same applies to CBD as well. Actually, your body produces some types of cannabinoids automatically. Also, it has two powerful receptors for CBD: CB 2 receptors and CB1 receptors.

As far as CB1 receptors are concerned, they are found across your body. However, many are found in your brain as well. The ones found in the brain help with memories, appetite, thinking, mood, emotions, pain, movement and many other functions. And these are the receptors THC attaches to. On the other hand, CB2 receptors are quite common in your immunity system, and they have an impact on pain and inflammation.

In the past, researchers believed that CBD2 receptors are the receptors that CBD attaches to, but now they know that CBD won't attach to any of the receptors. In fact, it looks like it helps your body get better use of its own cannabinoids.

So, this is a description of CBD and how it can help your body.

If you are searching for what is CBD oil, you may want to check out Sarahsblessings for more information.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Shalini_M/2609777

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Psychology of Drug Addiction & Substance Abuse Disorder, Causes & Solutions

Substance use disorders

Opioid Producers Put Blame on Addicts

Analysis by Dr. Joseph Mercola
December 03, 2019

 Story at-a-glance

• Opioid overdoses kill more than 130 people in the U.S. daily in an unprecedented crisis that continues to spiral out of control
• Purdue Pharma, which manufactures OxyContin, was instrumental in driving up sales of the drug to close to $2 billion a year by 2004
• As it became clear that people were dying from opioids, Purdue Pharma engaged in extensive damage-control tactics, including suggesting that the people dying from opioids were already drug addicts
• Purdue Pharma hired notorious PR firm Dezenhall Resources, which helped spread the opioid anti-story — the idea that pain patients who may lose access to opioids were the true victims of the opioid crisis
• In September 2019, Purdue Pharma filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy as part of a deal to settle the more than 2,000 lawsuits it’s currently facing
• Mundipharma, which is selling OxyContin in China, is using many of the same marketing tactics Purdue Pharma is now being accused of

Opioid overdoses kill more than 130 people in the U.S. daily¹ in an unprecedented crisis that continues to spiral out of control. The pharmaceutical companies behind these drugs are now facing mounting lawsuits, as it's become clear that they're the ones with blood on their proverbial hands, having pushed drugs on unsuspecting pain patients while knowing they were unsafe.
From 1999 to 2017, more than 702,000 people died from a drug overdose and, in 2017, this was a leading cause of injury-related deaths in the U.S. Of the 70,000 drug-overdose deaths that occurred that year, 68% involved opioids.²
Purdue Pharma, which manufactures OxyContin, was instrumental in driving up sales of the drug to close to $2 billion a year by 2004,³ and as it became clear that people were dying as a result, they engaged in every damage-control tactic they could think of, even suggesting that the only people dying from opioids were already drug addicts.
In a major exposé by ProPublica, the lengths Purdue Pharma went to downplay OxyContin's risks are revealed. In short, ProPublica senior reporter David Armstrong wrote, "OxyContin's makers delayed the reckoning for their role in the opioid crisis by funding think tanks, placing friendly experts on leading outlets, and deterring or challenging negative coverage."<sup>4

Read and learn more here>>></sup>https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2019/12/03/opioid-producers-put-blame-on-addicts.aspx?cid_source=dnl&cid_medium=email&cid_content=art2HL&cid=20191203Z1&et_cid=DM402953&et_rid=762391121

WebMD and Healthline Exposed Violating Your Privacy

Analysis by Dr. Joseph Mercola
December 04, 2019

 Story at-a-glance

• Dozens of popular health websites are tracking, storing and sharing your personal data without explicit consent, including WebMD (the leading health website) and Healthline (currently the third most popular health site)
• Of 100 health websites, 78% shared user data with DoubleClick, Google’s advertising arm, while 48% shared data with Amazon. Facebook, Microsoft and AppNexus, another advertising firm, also received user data
• This kind of information sharing is illegal in Europe. The EU’s General Data Protection Regulation requires websites to request and obtain explicit consent for the sharing of “special category data,” which includes health data
• Google claims it does not build advertising profiles from sensitive data and does not permit advertisers to use such data to target ads, yet if not used for advertising, what is the health data being used for, and why is it collected and shared in the first place?
• A report by the data privacy advocacy group Privacy International revealed mental health websites are also sharing sensitive personal data with third parties without the consent required under EU law. Some websites shared data with third parties in HTTP rather than HTTPS, which means the data, which contains unique identifiers, is susceptible to interception by hackers as well

read and learn more here>>> https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2019/12/04/medical-data-sharing.aspx?cid_source=dnl&cid_medium=email&cid_content=art1HL&cid=20191204Z1&et_cid=DM402929&et_rid=762988506

Substance Use And Abuse

Alcohol and Drug Abuse Statistics

Reviewed by Scot Thomas, M.D.

Last Updated: October 17, 2019

If you are thinking of seeking treatment for yourself or a loved one, you are not alone. The number of people suffering from addiction in America is astounding. Let’s take a look at some numbers starting with adolescents.  read and learn more here>>>https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/addiction-statistics

Substance Use, Abuse, and Addiction

The 11 symptoms of Substance Use Disorder   

Will Meek Ph.D.

The single most common reason people seek counseling across the world is for substance use problems. I'd personally estimate that 40% of people I have worked with over my career either primarily focused on a substance use issue, or had that as a secondary concern. The following is a brief overview of how to determine the severity of any level of use.

Quick note: In this article when I use the term "substance," I am referring to any type of intoxicant (alcohol, marijuana, nicotine, caffeine, opiates, narcotics, prescription meds, hallucinogens, etc).

Additionally, there is a lot of debate among psychologists, legal experts, doctors, philosophers, and sociologists on whether using any type of illegal substances even once is "OK." Instead of taking a position on that, this article will generally be written from a practical, open stance that accepts that we are curious, sensation-seeking beings that can make choices to have various experiences in our lives, some of which have been determined to be illegal by our governments or institutions we are affiliated with. This article is not going to cast many moral judgment or advocate any side, but instead will lay out the knowledge and facts about this subject.

Symptoms of Substance Use   learn more here>>>https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/notes-self/201401/substance-use-abuse-and-addiction

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services

read and learn more here>>>    https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/samhs/gethelp/

How To Stop Marijuana Cravings

By John Myler 

Would you like to learn proven methods to stop marijuana cravings from tempting you?

According to the National Household Survey on Drug Abuse that was conducted in 2001, it is estimated that 83 million Americans have tried marijuana. It is also estimated that 5.6 million of these users reporting having problems with illicit drug use and more than 2 million of these users feel dependent on smoking marijuana.

There are effective treatments and supplements that you can take to control the urge to smoke marijuana, however not everyone can afford to go to a rehab clinic or fork out hundreds of dollars for craving supplements that may or may not work.

This is where Emotional Freedom Technique (or EFT) comes into place. It is free, quick, easy and very effective at stopping cravings of all kinds including craving to smoke marijuana joints.

So what is EFT?

EFT is in simple terms, a method to break habits. By applying pressure on certain areas of your body whilst thinking about your craving you can reverse this craving for whatever it is you do not want. The technique is also used to send positive affirmations to your subconscious mind. The technique looks very strange but it is very simple to do and very effective. I would recommend everyone try this technique as it is so simple to achieve results.

What you will be doing is tapping with our fingertips on certain key points of the body. Just before tapping and during tapping you should concentrate on your craving. For example, if you wanted to smoke a joint, you would think about smoking a joint and imagine yourself already smoking a joint.

It's very simple stuff and can be performed by anyone. Results are instant and the whole process should not take you more than 3 minutes to complete.

The Cannabis Coach provides an interactive complete marijuana stop-smoking system to guide you through your mental and physical cravings from your quit date on to smoke-free status. Get your life back on track and start saving money! http://www.cannabiscoach.com

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/John_Myler/53807

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Multi-Generational Drug Abuse

By Steve Joseph           

Drug abuse is a most divisive force within a family unit. It causes people to lie to those that trust them, to use violence against those that love them and above all, to loathe themselves. In many cases the abuse of drugs goes on for many years, causing an ingrained type of damage that becomes a feature of daily life. Yet amidst the pain and suffering that is caused by drugs, there often remains an inability for individuals to fully heal themselves. In fact says that the incidence of drug abuse amongst children of drug addicts remains disproportionately high, in spite of first hand experience with the devastating disease. This fact clearly outlines the need for and the significance of expert rehabilitation programs that counters the disease to the same extent that drug abuse has negatively impacted the family.

There are a variety of methods and programs that exist with regard to drug rehab programs but the priorities of almost all drug rehab programs are defined by the level of abuse of the drug addict. The process of successful drug rehab programs is usually based upon a series of fundamental needs which are designed to:

-Allow the immediate effects of the drugs in your system to dissipate

-Safely detoxify the body and remove lasting traces of drugs from the body

-Avoid relapse by undergoing individual counseling

-Identify the things that may trigger a relapse

-Undergo family or marital counseling as appropriate

The last point which relates to family and marital counseling can be extremely significant for the purposes of breaking a lasting cycle of abuse. Most rehab programs are keen to point out the need for families to tackle drug abuse and agree that the role of family and friends as a means of support cannot be overstated. Hand in hand with this issue is the need for individual members of the family to be reconciled with the pain of their experiences. Family members simply cannot provide a supportive network for recovering addicts if they are continuing to harbor resentment or unresolved issues that stem from the drug user. Secondly, the chances of forming a multi-generational pattern of drug abuse are far greater if family reconciliation is not undertaken.

The author is a regular contributor to [http://www.rehabinfocentre.com] and permission to reproduce this article is given only on the basis that all links remain active and intact.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Steve_Joseph/25506

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Beyond Needle Marks - How Substance Abuse Affects Skin

By Matt Nilsen                 

The damage caused by substance abuse becomes increasingly challenging to camouflage. You may see the signs in yourself; you may see the signs in someone you care for. The mirror rarely lies. Your reflection will eventually reveal the burden you work so hard to conceal.

Substance Abuse Damages the Skin

For those who are relatively healthy, skin changes are often the first recognizable indicator of substance use and abuse. This may explain why dermatologists are often the first of the medical professionals to recognize the early signs of substance abuse disorder.

For better or worse, your skin is a reflection of what's happening inside your body. The chemicals fueling your addiction will impair your skin's ability to repair and heal. The effects are cumulative. While chemical abuse will cause your skin to take on a dull, unhealthy tone, certain types of substances are known to cause specific skin concerns. Some of the common skin concerns include:

• Infections

• Ulcers

• Vascular damage

• Mouth sores

• Skin flushing

• Hyperpigmentation

• Breakouts

Accelerating the Aging process with Stimulants

If you are indulging in any type of stimulant, you potentially expedite the aging process. Your heart beats faster, and your body needs to work harder to keep up with the increased demands. Under the strain of stimulants, your body produces the stress hormone, cortisol. Cortisol breaks down the collagen and elastin in your skin.

Collagen is the support structure within your skin. Elastin keeps your skin supple. When a body is under the stress of chemical dependency, the loss of collagen and elastin will result in saggy jowls, drooping eyelids, loose skin, wrinkles and deepened folds around your nose and mouth. In fact, stimulant abuse can cause you to look decades older. When you combine the effects of collagen loss with the potential weight loss and malnutrition associated with stimulant abuse, the acceleration of skin aging is even more pronounced

The Scars and Scabs of Methamphetamine Use

The chemical imbalances and dehydration caused by drug use, particularly methamphetamines, can result in uncomfortable and troubling sensations on your skin. You may feel like you have bugs crawling on your skin and below the surface. The sensations can be maddening. You may respond by scratching or picking at your skin. Irritation leads to more scratching and picking. Repeated skin irritation and skin injury will result in sores that heal slowly, or not at all. This cycle will scar your skin.

Sores that are slow to heal, blisters, scabs, and scars are some of the more recognizable skin problems associated with methamphetamine use. Commonly called meth sores or meth mites, these sores most commonly occur on your face and arms.

Since methamphetamines also interfere with blood flow, meth sores can appear anywhere on your body. Methamphetamines destroy blood vessels, interfere with your body's ability to repair cellular damage and can also cause leathery looking skin.

The Enlarged, Protruding or Damaged Veins of Intravenous Drug Use

Many IV drugs are vasodilators that can also induce vasospasms. That means that IV drugs will cause your blood vessels to expand, but then quickly contract. Vasospasms disrupt your circulation, which results in pain, swelling, skin ulcerations, skin infections and blood clots.

Approximately 88 percent of intravenous drug users will also develop chronic venous insufficiency. Venous insufficiency means the valves inside your veins that keep your blood flow moving towards your heart don't close properly. Leaky valves allow the blood to flow backward into the veins. This results in enlarged veins that can bulge and twist, varicose veins.

Severe venous insufficiency can also result in skin ulcers that are difficult to heal because of the decrease in circulation. This skin on your lower legs can discolor and take on a rough, scaly appearance. This is more than a cosmetic issue. Vein damage increases your risk of deep vein thrombosis (blood clots) and raises your risk of developing a life-threatening pulmonary embolism (a blood clot that travels to the lungs).

Cellulitis as a Consequence of Skin Popping

While most microorganisms living on your skin are harmless, they can cause devastating consequences when entering your body through an injection site. When veins become damaged by drug use, some IV drug users resort to skin popping, injecting drugs under the surface of the skin. Skin popping is linked to an increased risk of cellulitis, a rash-like skin infection caused by staph or strep bacteria. While this form of bacterial infection is not contagious, it forms a tender, hot, red swollen rash that spreads rapidly.

Cellulitis requires prompt medical attention. Left untreated this infection can enter your bloodstream and lymphatic system. Cellulitis can cause chronic swelling of the infected limb, or worse. Although it's rare, cellulitis can destroy soft tissues, requiring surgery to remove the damage.

Staph and Fungal Infections Due to Immune System Impairment

Substance abuse disorders disrupt your immune system. They make it difficult for your body to fight infections, this can result in an increase in infections that your once healthy immune system could have eliminated before it could cause any problems. You may find yourself prone to staph infections and fungal infections, particularly on your feet, where fungus thrives in the moist environment. If you are prone to psoriasis or eczema, you may find your flares more frequent and increasingly difficult to manage.

Surface Indications of Alcohol Abuse

Skin flushing can be an indication of alcohol abuse. Alcohol is a blood vessel dilator. Alcohol breaks down to acetaldehyde, which can cause a histamine release, which is the same thing that can happen during an allergic event.

With long-term alcohol abuse, you may also notice an increase in spider veins, small, broken capillaries close to the surface of your skin. Spider veins are often the most noticeable on your face, neck, chest, arms, hands, and abdomen. Particularly in those with liver damage.

The damage to your liver caused by alcohol dependency can also cause jaundice, the yellowing of your skin and eyes. This discoloration is an indication that you have an excessive amount of bilirubin in your system. Your liver normally breaks down bilirubin, but the function has been impaired by alcohol. When treated in its early stages, jaundice caused by the alcohol-related liver disease can be improved.

Increased Severity of Breakouts and Acne

Because of the increased amount of cortisol produced under stress; you may also find that your skin reflects the internal struggle by breaking out. Cortisol increases inflammation; acne is your skin's response to the inflammation cortisol causes. Acne can also be aggravated by the skin picking habits associated with meth use and the simple fact that addiction may cause you to overlook your basic skin care needs.

Drug and alcohol abuse can cause inflammation, malnutrition, and dehydration. It weakens your immune system and damages blood vessels. Addiction adversely affects your body's ability to heal. Your skin reflects the damage, while your brain, bones and internal organs continue to pay the price.

Restoring your appearance may be enough motivation to get you, or keep you, on the right path to a drug-free lifestyle. It may not. But as you conquer your addiction, you will see the signs of your progress. You can be assured that the improved health of your skin is a visible indication of the healing within.

Drug Detox Centers is physiological rehabilitation after drug addiction. An accredited and licensed facility that prevent unpleasant outcomes from suddenly quitting a drug. The focus of detox program is on monitoring and supporting the patient as the body cleanses itself of the drug's toxins and goes through withdrawal symptoms.

We have a team of drug detox specialists who are trained in assessing an individual's requirements and can help you find a program that is best-suited for your needs. Call (877) 262-6566 now to speak to one of our drug detox specialists and start on the road to recovery! [http://drugdetoxcenters.com]

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Matt_Nilsen/2550016

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Combatting Anxiety With 4-7-8 Breathing Pattern

By Susan Navarez 

Individuals suffering from anxiety are on a continuous lookout for techniques that can help them combat the mental disorder and relax their minds. One such technique doing the rounds these days is the 4-7-8 breathing pattern.

Also known as the "relaxing breath", the 4-7-8 breathing technique involves breathing in for 4 seconds, holding the breath for 7 seconds, and exhaling for 8 seconds. According to some proponents, this breathing technique helps in reducing anxiety and even helps people fall sleep within a minute. Even though there is little scientific evidence to support this breathing technique, a lot of people are turning to it for instant relief from anxiety symptoms and a more relaxed sleep.

Understanding the 4-7-8 breathing technique

The 4-7-8 breathing technique is followed as a core exercise by several alternative healing therapies such as yoga and meditation, as it helps promote relaxation. This breathing technique needs an individual to focus on taking a long deep breath at the time of inhalation. Supporters of this technique feel that it can help achieve the following:

• Better sleep
• Management of various types of yearnings and cravings
• Reduced or controlled anger responses
• Improved and gradually reduced anxiety symptoms

How to practice the 4-7-8 breathing technique?

Prior to starting this breathing pattern, it is suggested that an individual gets into a relaxed sitting or lying down position. They should then touch the roof of their mouth, just behind the front teeth with the tip of their tongue. Once settled, the individual should follow the below mentioned steps.

• Exhale the air out of the lungs so as to empty the lungs completely
• Inhale for a count of four seconds
• Hold the breath for a count of seven seconds
• Exhale forcefully via the mouth for a count of eight seconds. While exhaling, the individual should make a "o" of their lips and make a "whoosh" sound.

An individual must follow this breathing technique twice a day to start noticing the benefits at the earliest. However, first-timers must refrain from exceeding four breath cycles at a stretch. Once the practitioner is comfortable with the technique, they can practice it for longer durations.

For the first couple of times, an individual may feel light-headed after practicing this breathing technique. Thus it is advised to try this technique while lying or sitting down to avert falls or dizziness. It is far more important to maintain the ratio instead of focusing on the number of seconds the breathing pattern lasts for. If an individual struggles to hold their breath for a long time, they can opt for a breathing pattern of shorter duration, which would be:

• Inhaling for a count of 2 seconds
• Holding the breath for a period of 3.5 seconds
• Exhaling forcefully for 4 seconds

If an individual is successful in maintaining the appropriate ratio, they will start noticing the benefits within a couple of weeks of following this technique consistently, once or twice a day. They would notice a lower frequency in the occurrence of their anxiety symptoms and a more restful sleep.

Seeking help for anxiety disorder

Anxiety is a part and parcel of life, and feeling anxious in situations that are challenging and stressful is quite normal. However, when anxiety persists and worsens with time, it becomes a disorder. Anxiety afflicts nearly 40 million American adults and is one of the most common mental health concerns in the U.S.

If you or a loved one is suffering from an anxiety disorder, get in touch with the Medical Concierge of California. We offer our patients evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders using a combination of medications, individual and group psychotherapy, and alternative therapies like yoga and meditation. Call our 24/7 anxiety disorder treatment helpline 866-678-8308 to learn more about our anxiety disorder treatment centers. You can also chat online with our counselor for more information on how we customize our intervention programs to get you the maximum benefits.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Susan_Navarez/2192918

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