Monthly Archives: November 2023

“Am I A Bad Person?” Why People with Substance Use Disorder are NOT Bad People

People with Substance Use Disorder are NOT ‘Bad People’

 

When living with substance use disorder, individuals face many obstacles within society. 

Challenges include barriers to treatment, social isolation and poor mental health.

Majority of people in society understand that use of illicit drugs is illegal. This statement leads to substance users being commonly labeled as “criminals“, “addicts” or “abusers“.

These negative stereotypes are far from the truth and here’s why:

  • Many people who are drug dependent that commit crimes have been addicted to drugs before they started criminal activity.
  • Finances and unemployment are other reasons why people commit crimes rather than drug use.
  • Approximately 75% of the Nation’s population that are addicted to opioids, first started taking them to manage pain. 
  • There are roughly 22 million U.S. people in recovery for substance use disorder. This means that anyone, even your neighbor could have substance use disorder.
  • Many highly educated and famous people have lived with substance use disorder.
    • Examples include:
      • George W. Bush
      • Elton John
      • Van Gogh
      • Thomas Edison

Robert Ashford’s Story 

Robert Ashford is a doctoral student in health policy and a graduate research assistant at the ‘Substance Use Disorders Institute’. 

Anyone who meets Robert for the first time would most likely not expect that Robert has been in recovery for substance use disorder since 2013.

During the time that Robert had substance use disorder, he faced discrimination, housing barriers and struggled to pay for his education. These factors often get in the way of individual’s seeking treatment and recovery. 

Robert Ashford’s story proves the countless substance use disorder stereotypes to be false.

Recovery is possible for everyone. 

Greenbaum (2019).

Here’s some more facts about people with Substance Use Disorder:

  • Opioid use disorder is more common in adults 60+. This could be explained by the increased need for chronic pain management in older adults.
  • Common pain medications prescribed to patients that lead to substance use disorder are:
    • Heroin
    • Morphine
    • Hydrocodone or Oxycodone
    • Tramadol
  • People at higher risk for substance use disorder are:
    • Cigarette smokers
    • Family history of substance use disorder
    • Started taking substances at a young age

This short clip describes stigma and the ways that it can negatively impact people with substance use disorder. 

After viewing this clip, we now understand that stigma is a common negative belief that society has regarding a certain population. Stigma causes society to shame and mistreat people. 

Typically, people with substance use disorder need treatment & therapy in order to achieve recovery. Feelings of guilt that go hand in hand with substance use stigma make it more challenging for people to seek help when they need it most. 

Bottom line is that substance use disorder can happen to anyone regardless of their demographics and characteristics.

References

Addictions UK. (2020, October 28). Addicts are not criminals. AddictionsUK. 2023, https://addictionsuk.com/blogs/addicts-are-not-criminals/

Greenbaum, Z. (2019). The stigma that undermines care. American Psychological Association. 2023. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2019/06/cover-opioids-stigma

Not your stereotypical addict. (2023). Harvard Women’s Health Watch, 30(11), Cover-7.

ADHD

You are NOT alone, there are others going through the same thing

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a lifetime disorder, but it’s not a death sentence. In fact, it is a condition that brings many gifts.
ADHD affects around 5% of children and 2.5% of adults worldwide               
(WHO (World Health Organization, 2023). 
ADHD is not always identified as untamed antics and children bouncing off the walls. Instead, it causes hyperactivity and disordering of the brain, not always the body (LDFRA, 2023). 

Common Signs and Symptoms:

Children 

(CDC, 2023)

  • having a short attention span and easily distracted
  • making absentminded mistakes – for example, in schoolwork
  • appearing forgetful or losing things
  • being unable to adhere to tasks that are tedious or time-consuming

Adults

(Ballards Psychiatry, 2023)

  • thoughtlessness and decreased attention to detail
  • never fully finishing a task
  • weak organizational skills 
  • trouble focusing or prioritizing
  • forgetfulness
  • restlessness and uneasiness 
  • hard time keeping quiet

Additional facts YOU should know about ADHD

  • No person with ADHD presents the same
  • Having ADHD does not mean you cannot focus 
  • ADHD is not just a childhood condition 
  • Medication is not always the answer
  • Not everyone with ADHD is hyperactive   

Living your best life, while managing ADHD

Learning how to manage symptoms is the first step of living positively with ADHD. Depending on your age, and lifestyle, management looks different for everyone. Standard treatments in adults and children diagnosed with ADHD consists of “medication, education, skills training and psychological counseling. A combination of these is often the most effective treatment” (Mayo Clinic 2023). 

Do not be afraid to ask for help

If you are concerned that you or your child might have ADHD, talk to your healthcare provider and explain your symptoms and your doctor will determine if your symptoms fit the diagnosis of ADHD. The diagnosis can be made by a mental health professional, like a psychologist or psychiatrist, or by a primary care provider, like a pediatrician.

 

(Boston Medical Center, 2023)

Ignore STIGMA shown in the video. Not all ADHD symptoms present the same. It is common for two people to experience symptoms in different ways. 

Decrease Stigma in simple steps

  • Know the facts
  • Educate yourself about mental illness including substance use disorders.
  • Be aware of your attitudes and behavior
  • Choose your words carefully
  • Educate others
  • Focus on the positive
  • Support people 
  • Include everyone (CAMH, 2023)

Making an Impact

Getting out into the community, and sharing your story by making personal connections with others who have ADHD, and those who do not. Sharing your story of how ADHD affects your life and how you manage your symptoms can encourage others. 

Support Groups for ADHD community 

You do not have to have ADHD to be a supporter, you can be a friend or a family member, too. There are many support groups available, including non-profit organizations

  • American Academy for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Attention Deficit Disorder Association 
  • American Psychological Association 
  • American Psychiatric Association 
  • CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)*

By going to https://chadd.org/affiliate-locator/, you will be guided in the right direction to find a support group in your area. 

ADHD is not a bad thing, and you should not feel differently from those without ADHD

 

 

Resources: 

Addressing stigma. CAMH. (2023). https://www.camh.ca/en/driving-change/addressing-stigma

Adult ADHD. Ballard Psychiatry. (2023, October 12). https://www.ballardpsych.com/adult-adhd-seattle/ 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, September 27). Not just ADHD? helping children with multiple concerns. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/features/not-just-adhd.html

JUBRAIL, J., & CHETCUTI, B. (2022). Assessment and treatment of ADHD in adults. Prescriber.

Kern, R. M., Rasmussen, P. R., Boyd, S. L., & Wittschen , L. K. (2000). Lifestyle, Personality and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Journal of Individual Psychology, 55(2).Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2023, January 25). Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Mayo Clinic. 

NHS. (2023). Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Symptoms . NHS choices. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/symptoms/

Revolutionizing equal access to Care & Health for ADHD. (2023). https://www.bumc.bu.edu/reach4adhd/research/psychometric-research-study/

Shikerkar, D., & Vajaratkar, P. V. (2022, September). Understanding Daily Routine and Schedule of Children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Qualitative Study.

World Health Organization. (2023). Prevention. World Health Organization. 

YouTube. (2016a). YouTube. Retrieved November 11, 2023, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nm46PN_ksXU.

 

 

The Problem with Diabetes: Debunking Common Media Myths

By: EpicTop10.com

Diabetes is an extremely common disease that affects millions of people worldwide. With diabetes being so common, it is eye-opening to see how often people receive incorrect information about not only treatment, but also how it can occur within a body. A big reason for this frequent miscommunication is due to how it is represented within the media which can include other blogs, videos, movies, and television shows. When patients receive a diagnosis or simply want their questions answered, where is the first place they turn to? Without hesitation, many proceed straight to the internet which has aided in the issues regarding diabetes misrepresentation in the media. We will focus on debunking some of the many myths about diabetes while hopefully creating a clearer picture about the many facets of this disease. Let’s take a look at some myths first…

Myths

Review these videos below and reflect on what you may think is displayed incorrectly (do not worry if you are unsure, we will go over them).

 

We know that no one ever wants to disagree with Hannah Montana, but unfortunately, this form of diabetes described is not accurate. In the first video, type 2 diabetes is properly represented, but when the actor describes that he must take an injection every few hours or else he dies is false. The injection that he is referring to is insulin and it is only needed prior to meals after obtaining an accurate blood glucose reading that indicates their blood sugar is elevated.  The second video is describing type 1 diabetes, which people are born with, as type 2 diabetes, the more familiar one that is associated with unhealthy eating habits. After the initial wrongful depiction of diabetes, Oliver gives an education lesson about his type 1 diabetes and how he can consume sugar if his blood sugar is too low. Though a cupcake is not the healthiest option, it is still depicted correctly.

Other common myths include:

  • You cannot have any sugar anymore: many nutritious foods needed for a complete diet contain small amounts of sugar.
  • Medications can cure diabetes: medications help to maintain blood sugar levels but will not cure it.
  • Reducing alcohol consumption to zero: Moderation and limitations must be applied when it comes to drinking alcohol.
  • “Sugar-free” desserts are a safer option: often contain products that can affect the body in different ways that still raises blood sugar levels.

Now let’s look at some facts about diabetes…

Facts

It is very easy to get lost in deciphering between what is true and false regarding diabetes, so let’s review some of the facts. There are two different types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. A person is often born with type 1 diabetes, and it is caused by a deficiency that causes the body to attack itself, this often results in low blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes is acquired through poor habit which can include, but is not limited to: poor nutrition, lack of exercise, or an inactive lifestyle.

Nutrition is the number one way to correct and maintain a healthy lifestyle when living with diabetes. A quick guide on the exact amount of what to eat can be referenced through MyPlate.com which shows the necessary categories needed daily.

Do not forget to keep moving! Exercise and staying active is a great tool to keeping your blood sugars low.

Your blood sugar refers to the concentration of sugar that is present in your blood at a certain time. It is crucial that this is maintained with diabetes. There are many complications that can occur if it is uncontrolled. Some of these include vision loss, loss of feeling in your feet, and even amputation of toes.

Overall, being diagnosed with diabetes can seem scary and often a “death-sentence” but that is far from the truth. With proper diet and management, these complications can be prevented and sometimes correct their diabetes all together. Coming from a family that has dealt with diabetes for generations, it is crucial to follow these guidelines, and for those assisting with relative/ friends in their journey, your support is crucial.

References

Caple, C., Morales, N., Constantine, L., & Hanson, D. (2023). Educating About Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Adults. Educating About Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Adults By: Caple C, Morales N, Constantine L, Hanson D, CINAHL Nursing Guide, September 8, 2023. 

Carser, A. R. (2021). Handling diabetes. Essential Library, an imprint of Abdo Publishing.

Hicks, C. W., & Selvin, E. (2019). Epidemiology of peripheral neuropathy and lower extremity disease in diabetes. Current Diabetes Reports, 19(10). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11892-019-1212-8 

Teymourian, H., Barfidokht, A., & Wang, J. (2020). Electrochemical glucose sensors in diabetes management: An updated review (2010–2020). Chemical Society Reviews, 49(21), 7671–7709. https://doi.org/10.1039/d0cs00304b 

 

 

In this video, Dr. Robert Wright falsely claims that ionized water (alkaline water) has been “heavily studied” by scientists and the benefits of drinking alkaline water is life changing and will heal the body of cancer, yet there is no evidence to prove this claim. Dr. Wright is also seen promoting the sale of the Kangen Water Machine.

Alkaline water: a cure for cancer or a hoax?

For many people, social media and the internet can have a significant impact on their decisions. Alkaline water has been marketed as a health aid claiming it contains a “multitude of benefits” for those looking to be healthier or for others, searching for a cure for a disease, such as cancer. According to the Cleveland Clinic.org, the discussion around what alkaline water is and the claims made by marketers is not supported by science.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the use of any claims of health benefits relating to alkaline water and bone health due to insufficient evidence.

What is known about alkaline water is that it has the same chemical make up as bottled or tap water, only that it has a higher pH level making it alkaline (or less acidic). Marketers are now using this information to sell alkaline water machines (The Kangen Water Machine) to be used in your home and can cost up to $3,000-$5000.

What is Alkaline Water?                          

Alkaline water has a higher presence of hydrogen than plain or bottled water. Alkaline water is commonly produced by an “ionizer,” a device that changes the chemical composition of water. The idea is that an ionizer changes the pH level of water — which is naturally at a neutral pH of 7. This makes the water more alkaline and less acidic — raising its pH to 8, 9 or higher.

 

Watch this video about alkaline water and how it effects your body!

 

 

Let’s talk about alkaline water myths 

  • Improves digestion: once alkaline water hits your stomach, your gastric juices will neutralize it — it’s your stomachs job to balance the amount of acid that enters your body, therefore the high pH level of the alkaline water you just drank is immediately re-acidified.
  • Improves hydration: drinking any amount of water will hydrate you; not the type of water.
  • Prevents bone loss: there are no empirical studies showing that alkaline water has this benefit.
  • Increases your blood’s mineral content: the high alkaline levels in the water are neutralized in the stomach and will not be absorbed in the bloodstream. It is instead released through the lungs during expiration.
  • Slows aging: drinking water hydrates your skin, but no water of any kind will slow the aging process.
  • Cures cancer: Marketers claim alkaline water works as an antioxidant to prevent cell damage that leads to disease. They also claim that alkaline waters’ high pH level properties will neutralize cancer cells because cancer cells thrive in acidic environments. These claims have not been properly tested in controlled scientific studies.

https://onlineedu.neit.edu/en422/wp-content/uploads/sites/21/2023/11/50448770587_1c0c1d8136-1.jpg

Can Alkaline Water hurt you if you drink too much?

Drinking too much alkaline water can have adverse effects, such as imbalanced mineral levels in the bloodstream caused by excess hydrogen intake. In fact, having a diet that is near a neutral pH is the healthiest diet. Forcing an increased amount of pH in our bodies can cause more serious health issues to the kidneys and lungs.  

In recent years, marketers have been contacting cancer patients to promote alkaline water making machines, which prompted oncologists to research the products. There have been many articles written about high pH diets and water, yet there is no evidence to support the claims. 

ALKALINE WATER WILL NOT:

  • Prevent cancer cells from forming in the body
  • Stop tumors from continuing to grown
  • Be successful as a treatment for cancer
  • Cure you from your cancer

The Takeaway

Drinking water, whether it be tap, bottled, mineral or alkaline will all perform the same benefits. They will hydrate your body, promote healthy digestion, create healthier looking skin, and make you feel good. However, science has proven time and time again that alkaline water does not live up to its claims as being the cure all “super water drink”. Social media and influencers are marketing expensive brands of alkaline water and alkaline water machines to make a profit.

References

Bourne, D. (2021, October 13). The alkaline water myth. Science In Our Lives. https://ua.pressbooks.pub/pseudoscienceessays/chapter/the-alkaline-water-myth/

Fenton, T.R., & Huang, T. (2016). Systemic review of the association between dietary acid load, alkaline water and cancer. BMJ Open, 6(6), e010438.  

https://doi-og.ezproxy.neit.edu/10.1136/bmjopen-2015-010438 

Ferre, C. (2013, May). Alkaline water: Miracle or hoax? – ohsawa macrobiotics. ohsawamamacrobiotics.coom. https://ohsawamacrobiotics.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/alkaline-water-cf.pdf 

Bottled Alkaline Water — Don’t Believe the Marketing Hype. (2020, September 9). Health Essentials from Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/alkaline-water-dont-believe-the-marketing-hype/ 

Kangen Water. (2020). Kangen water for cancer patient. [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/_avfbI0X7wE?si=QApTPRUqY4jJxVdV

Healthline. (2016). Exposing The Alkaline Diet Myth. [Video].YouTube. https://youtu.be/PUWSeeL3nG8?si=uiPDOS21t1qpR7Dz

 

“Just lazy” The Struggle with Obesity and The Stigma

“Obesity may seem simple to explain, but it’s far more complex than calories in vs calories burned” (Orley Andreasson, 2022).

 

People who are obese are just lazy! – FALSE

People with obesity just eat too much ! – FALSE

People who are obese Just need to get up and move more to lose weight! – FALSE

People  are obese because they chose to be! – FALSE

 

What is obesity?

“Obesity is defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health. A body mass index (BMI) over 25 is considered overweight, and over 30 is obese.”(WHO,2023)

  • Body Max Index or BMI is a measurement using height and weight to determine the amount of body fat that you have.
  • BMI also factors in your gender.

What can cause obesity?

“Despite the stigma around weight gain, obesity can be caused by many things beyond how much you eat or exercise. Genetics, social or economic factors, and certain medications or health conditions can also play a role” (Holland, 2020).

  • Genetics
  • Physiological influences
  • Food intake and eating disorders
  • Weight history
  • Can be Hereditary
  • Unhealthy diet
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Certain Medications
  • Pregnancy
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Lack of sleep
  • Environmental/social influences

How Obesity affects your health…

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Infertility
  • High blood pressure
  • Heart disease
  • Certain cancers (breast, colon, and endometrial)
  • Stroke
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Fatty liver disease
  • High cholesterol
  • Sleep apnea and other breathing problems
  • Chronic lower back pain
  • Musculoskeletal disorders

What you can do to lower the risks of obesity by prevention and  also treatments of obesity.. 

Treatments include seeking assistance from health specialists such as…

  • Dieticians/ Nutritionist
  • Bariatric physicians
  • Endocrinologist


Prevention techniques include…

  • Increased level of activity
  • Reducing stressors
  • Getting plenty of rest and sleep
  • Nutritional intake

Why we need to spread awareness for change…

  • To assist persons struggling with obesity to proper resources to get help.
  • Decrease risks of health problems
  • Encourage happy, healthy lifestyle
  • Decrease risks of psychological consequences such as increased anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and eating disorders
  • To end stigma and discrimination
  • To end judgment

 

 

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, July 15). Consequences of Obesity. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/basics/consequences.html

Coping with the impact of obesity stigma on mental health. (2022). Www.youtube.com. Retrieved November 13, 2023, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnd6YTtDE-M&t=16s

Holland, K. (2020, July 29). Obesity Facts in America. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/obesity-facts

Larery, T. (2019). The True Weight of Childhood Obesity in America. The Midwest Quarterly, 60(3),329+. https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/A583693217/LitRC?u=anon~2a140135&sid=bookmark- LitRC&xid=fdb5bf52

World Health Organization. (2022). Obesity. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/health-topics/obesity/#tab=tab_1

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