Anti-smoking medication shows promise for treating alcohol dependence
A smoking-cessation medication may be a viable option for the treatment of alcohol dependence, according to a study by scientists at the National Institutes of Health. The study found that varenicline (marketed under the name Chantix), approved in 2006 to help people stop smoking, significantly reduced alcohol consumption and craving among people who are alcohol-dependent. The findings were published online in the Journal of Addiction Medicine. Continue reading…
Brief Intervention Helps Adolescents Curb Substance Use
Drug- and alcohol-involved middle and high school students markedly reduced their substance use following two 60-minute sessions that combined motivational interviewing (MI) and cognitive behavioral therapy. The students also reported significantly fewer substance-related symptoms of substance use disorders during the 6 months after the intervention compared with the 6 months before it. Adding a separate 1-hour MI-based session with a parent or primary caregiver enhanced the beneficial effects. Continue reading…
Prevention and Promotion Call to Action and Planning Guide
Have you seen the Prevention and Promotion Call to Action and Planning Guide This 174 page document is a month-by-month interactive substance abuse and mental health promotion planning guide for communities. This is an amazing community planning guide with all the resources you need to promote wellness in your community.
New Federal Website On Mental Health
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has announced the launch of MentalHealth.gov as an online resource for people looking for information about mental health. This website provides information about the signs of mental illness, how individuals can seek help, and how communities can host conversations about mental health. The website also features videos from a number of individuals sharing their stories about mental illness, recovery, and hope.
Systems-Level Implementation fo SBIRT
Great resource from SAMHSA for those interested in SBIRT. This toolkit describes core elements of screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) programs for people with or at risk for substance use disorders. Describes SBIRT services implementation, covering challenges, barriers, cost, and sustainability. Click image before for more information
TBI 12 Step/Education Group
This meeting will provide an opportunity to share ideas and needs related to Brain Injury and Substance Use. Participants will explore the 12 Step/Substance Use Education and tailor it for individuals with traumatic brain injury. Individuals with Brain Injuries and Substance Use issues and family members are invited. Where: Carolinas Rehabilitation, Private Dining Room: 1100 Blythe Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28203 For more information contact Rose Griffin, Project STAR: 704-355-9623
MADD Seeks Support for Drunk Driving Legislative Reform
LaRonda Scott State Executive Director Mothers Against Drunk Driving North Carolina State Office Did you know that 1 out of 3 people will be injured in an alcohol related crash? That person could be a loved one, a co-worker or a neighbor. Impaired driving affects everyone. MADD is dedicated to cutting the number of drunk driving crashes, injuries, and deaths. Through its initiatives and programs, MADD is making a difference and so can you. Stand with MADD. Save a life. House Bill 536 will save lives in North Carolina. This lifesaving legislation will require all convicted drunk drivers to have an ignition…
A Drug Policy for the 21st Century
The release of the 2013 National Drug Control Strategy, a science-driven plan for drug policy reform in America. This 21st century drug policy outlines a series of evidence-based reforms that address our Nation’s drug problem as not just a criminal justice issue, but also a major public health concern. The President has outlined his vision of an America built to last—where an educated, skilled workforce has the knowledge, energy and expertise to compete in the global marketplace. Yet—for far too many Americans—that vision is limited by drug use, which not only limits the potential of the individual, but jeopardizes families, communities…
NC Voices for Prevention Heard on Capital Hill
On February 6th, a North Carolina delegation again descended upon Washington, D.C. to participate in CADCA’s Capital Hill Day. Meetings were held with Senator Burr’s staff, Senator Hagan’s staff and U.S. Representative Mark Meadows (District 11). Our goal was simple – to ensure our elected representatives heard our voices as One Voice for Prevention. We had well over two dozen people to pack into a conference room and talk substance abuse prevention with Senator Hagan’s Staff. Shortly thereafter, another large group met with Senator Burr’s Staff. The information was well received during both visits with the Senator’s representative assuring…