Planning for a Safe End of the Year

Attending a New Year’s party is a surefire way to challenge your sobriety. Especially if you’re new to recovery, your best bet is to skip the festivities and find a sober alternative. If you do decide to attend, however, you’ll need to prepare ahead, practice self-care and line up support. 

Here are a few tips to have a safe and sober end of the year:

• Bring a sober buddy. It’s much easier to stay sober and avoid temptation with a loved one or friend by your side. You’ll feel less alone and you’ll also have someone to hold you accountable throughout the evening.
• Remind yourself that you’re not missing out. Getting drunk may look fun but you know all too well that it’s not worth the consequences. Write down a few reasons why you chose to become sober or find a photograph of your addicted self and bring it with you to combat feelings of missing out. 
• Plan ahead. If you attend a party where there will be alcohol, be prepared. This means rehearsing a script of why you’re not drinking and/or having an escape plan if you become overwhelmed. It’s also smart to recruit a trusted friend to bail you out if you begin to struggle.  
• Practice self-care. The goal is to approach the evening with a healthy, stress-free mindset. This will enable you to make smart decisions. Make sure to prioritize sleeping, eating and exercising in the upcoming days and do your best to avoid HALT, the widely used recovery acronym for hunger, anger, loneliness and tiredness. 
• Attend a support group. Many support groups hold New Year’s Eve meetings – so consider leaving any party early and ringing in the New Year with others in the recovery community. It's a great way to combat the stress, loneliness and temptations of the night.

Getting Help for Alcohol Abuse

According to the NIAAA, the young adult subgroup makes up 31.5 percent of alcoholics. At Hope Academy, we provide a safe environment in which teens and young adults feel comfortable sharing their concerns and setting sobriety goals. To learn more, call 866-930-4673.

How to Handle Holiday Relapse Triggers

Relapse triggers are seemingly everywhere this season – and, of course, what’s high risk for you might be low risk for someone else, depending on your stage of recovery. There are a few known holiday triggers, however, that you’ll likely want to prepare for. 

Take a look at our list below and then add your own personal triggers to ensure that you can enjoy the festivities and stay sober. 

• Hunger: Low blood sugar can make anyone feel anxious or irritable – and, in turn, this can lower your ability to fend off cravings or temptations.
• What to do: Try to eat six small nutritious meals per day, or snack every three hours. A combo that includes healthy carbs and low-fat protein will keep you satisfied longer. Some examples: Red and green bell pepper strips with hummus, grapes with low-fat string cheese, or a celery stalk with a dollop of peanut butter. 

• Stress: Unrealistic expectations, mounting to-do lists, lack of sleep, family overload and overpacked schedules this holiday can all lead to stress.
• What to do: Make relaxation a daily priority, whether you simply take a few minutes to meditate, enjoy a favorite pastime or meet up with a friend each day for a morning walk. 

• Family: If you’re able to go home for the holidays, you’ll likely encounter some unexpected questions and/or comments from a relative or two. 
• What to do: Do your best to prepare by creating a script for yourself. Consider talking to your addiction counselor or recovery peers for some ideas. 

• Loneliness: Whether you’re unable to go home or are missing old friends who are no longer in your life, the holidays can bring upon loneliness for many individuals in recovery.  
• What to do: Don’t isolate yourself. Find out what holiday events are taking place in rehab, attend a few extra meetings or support groups to stay on track, or line up a few close friends and families to celebrate with you this year.

• Lack of sleep: A good night’s sleep is essential for coping with stress – and, yet, stress can make shut-eye nearly impossible. 
• What to do: To keep your mind from racing before bed, relax with a book or calming bedtime ritual (meditation or yoga, for instance). Jotting down a to-do list before you head to bead is also a great way to clear your mind so you have an easier time falling (and staying) asleep. 

Addiction Aftercare & Support for Young Adults

Upon returning home, it is all-too-easy for clients to gravitate to former patterns, dangerous environmental triggers, and toxic relationships. At Hope Academy, we create a supportive transition between treatment completion and the return home, so clients have the best chance at sustained sobriety. To learn more, call today: 866-930-4673.

Brain Changes in Smartphone Addicted Teens

Smartphone addiction is on the rise – 50 percent of teens feel they are addicted, according to CNN.com – and it’s taking a toll on their minds. 

A new, small study suggests that being hooked on the internet and smartphones may harm the brain chemistry of teens, according to research presented at the Radiological Society of North America's annual meeting in Chicago.

Researchers found an imbalance of chemicals in the brain of "internet-addicted" teenagers, similar to what’s found in people with anxiety disorder and depression. Compared with 19 teenagers who were not addicted, the brains of the addicted boys had significantly higher levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter in the cortex that inhibits neurons.

"GABA slows down the neurons," Caglar Yildirim, an assistant professor of human computer interaction, told CNN.com. "That results in poorer attention and control, which you don't want to have, because you want to stay focused. So that means you are more vulnerable to distractions."

The good news: Researchers found that several weeks of cognitive behavioral therapy works to reverse the imbalance. 

More About Smartphone Addiction

The overuse of smartphones has been linked to several health effects, including: 

• Text neck - cramping, stabbing pain that comes after looking down at your phone too long
• Poor posture
• Sleep disturbances
• Anxiety and depression
• Low self-esteem

What’s more, about 1.2 million car crashes in 2013 involved drivers talking on phones, according to the National Safety Council, and at least 341,000 involved text messaging.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Young Adults
At Hope Academy, we conduct a series of tests upon admission to determine if mental illness is complicating substance abuse. Once we gain a comprehensive understanding of each patient’s individual health challenges, our addiction treatment team develops a customized program. To learn more, call 866-930-4673.

How Hope Helps Your Recovery

Hope is a pretty powerful ally in addiction recovery. Some experts even say it’s the foundation of recovery. Without hope, after all, you won’t be able to devote your mind and heart to your lifelong journey toward sobriety.

Hope helps us heal. Hope provides us with an optimistic mindset. Hope gives us the courage to set and reach small and large goals. Hope allows us to imagine a better, brighter, sober future. And while having hope is not always easy, it can always be found. 

Tips for Finding Hope

Here are a few tips to help you or someone you love find hope today:  

• Read or listen to stories of recovery. Whether you join a Facebook page or go to an in-person meeting, recovery stories can help give you the inspiration, insight and hope you need to endure the difficult journey toward sobriety. 
• Allow yourself to get inspired. Inspiration can certainly lead to hope. Make a point to let inspiration into your life, whether you make an effort to write down inspirational quotes, read an uplifting book or play some music. 
• Surround yourself with optimism. Now more than ever, it’s crucial to build a solid network of positive friends, family members and peers who can help show you the bright side of life -- in recovery and beyond. There will likely be a lot of dark days during recovery and a little sunshine can help you power through and remain optimistic.
• Set short- and long-term goals. Learning to develop meaningful and purposeful life goals is a crucial recovery activity and one that will help you look toward a positive, hopeful future. By finding your direction in life, you’ll find hope. Avoid setting unrealistic goals, however, as you don’t want to set yourself up for feelings of frustration or failure. 

Hope for a Sober, Successful Future
At Hope Academy, we help young adults recover from addiction by providing residential treatment and educational support that help them discover their passion and aspire to more in life. To learn more about our addiction treatment programs, call today: 866-930-4673.

Gift Ideas for a Loved One in Recovery

The holiday season is upon us and you may be trying to figure out a meaningful present to give to your loved one in recovery. Picking out a gift for someone you love, a gift that shows you support his or her recovery process is challenging. 

Luckily, there are plenty of items that can provide encouragement and sober fun. Some experts recommended thinking in three categories: for the self, for recovery, for his or her surroundings. 

Here are a few gifts that will keep on giving this season: 

• A gratitude journal or diary
• Sobriety calendar
• Sparkling water maker
• Gift certificate to movies 
• Gift certificate for a massage or spa day
• Trial yoga or meditation class
• Trial indoor rock climbing membership
• Guided meditation CD/MP3
• Stress ball
• Scented candles
• Healthy cookbook
• Inspirational book(s) about recovery 
• Assortment of herbal and decaf teas
• Personalized coffee cups, hats, T-shirts, bags
• Adult coloring book and art supplies (crayons, markers, colored pencils, paints)
• Sobriety jewelry or tokens
• An engraved compact mirror
• A picture frame or picture collage 
• Bath soaps and bubbles
• A donation to a favorite charity or recovery program
• An indoor plant or gardening supplies

The best way to show someone you’ve got their back during recovery won’t cost a dime. Make up some coupons for an extra hug, listening session or walk in the park. The gift of support, after all, is the best gift of all. 

Drug and Alcohol Treatment for Young Adults
If you or someone you love is addicted to drugs or alcohol, Hope Academy can help. We offer a variety of drug and alcohol addiction treatment programs for young adults, including our unique sobriety college program. Our CA rehab programs for adults age 18 to 26 include residential treatment and outpatient programs, and our team is available to help with insurance authorizations, and interventions. For more information, call: 866-930-4673.

Why College Students Should Practice Gratitude

With Thanksgiving a few days away, it’s the perfect time to talk about why it’s important to have a regular gratitude practice or “attitude of gratitude.” Being grateful has been found to boost your overall happiness and wellbeing — and there’s more. For those of you attending college while in addiction recovery, a gratitude practice can help enhance your academic experience and sober life. 

Here’s how: 

• You’ll improve your sleep. The pressures of school and rehab can take a big toll on your slumber. By counting your blessings instead of counting sheep, you’ll  relax your mind and body and fall asleep faster. 
• You’ll lessen anxiety and depression.  Anxiety and depression often co-occur with substance use disorders – and making gratitude a habit can help safeguard your mental health. Being thankful and focusing on the positives in life will strengthen your emotional resilience so you can better deal with any negative emotions that come your way.  
• You’ll be more productive. The practice of writing down what you’re grateful for can help you relax and focus on your recovery and schoolwork. Plus, gratitude has been linked with greater self-esteem and confidence, which certainly can’t hurt when you’re trying to tackling a tough assignment or deal with an intense craving. 
• You’ll have deeper friendships. A simple thank-you to someone you care about can go a long way in strengthening your relationship. After all, doesn’t everyone want to feel appreciated? It could also help you make new friends; for instance, a simple thank-you text to a classmate that helped you study. 

Grateful for a Sober Life

When you trust us with your recovery, you don’t have to leave college behind or put career preparation on hold. We offer vocational training, college prep, and sobriety college options that allow you to pursue your dreams while you get clean. To learn more, call today: 866-930-4673. 

Study: Alcohol Use Puts Adolescents at Risk of Insomnia

It’s not news that excessive drinking as a teenager can cause a host of medical problems – both in the short- and long-term. Most recently, however, researchers have linked alcohol consumption during adolescents to daytime sleepiness and insomnia. The findings are consistent with associations found between insomnia and alcohol among older adolescents and adults, say researchers.

For the study, which was published in the journal Addictive Behaviors, researchers examined the associations between alcohol use and four sleep-related issues:

• Initial insomnia
• Sleep irregularity (defined as difference in weekday and weekend bedtimes)
• Daytime sleepiness
• Disturbed sleep

Study participants were asked to complete surveys that questioned the following:

• The amount of time it takes them to fall asleep
• Their bedtimes during the weekday and weekend
• The frequency of sleep disturbances
• Whether they sleep in class and potential difficulties staying awake after school 

Researchers also took into account whether symptoms of mental health problems or levels of parental monitoring accounted for these sleep problems. 

“Parents, educators, and therapists should consider insomnia to be a risk marker for alcohol use, and alcohol use a risk marker for insomnia, among early adolescents," said Rutgers-Camden researcher Naomi Marmorstein, in a statement.

Do You Know the Symptoms of Insomnia?

According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), people with insomnia have one or more of the following symptoms:

• Difficulty falling asleep
• Difficulty staying asleep (waking up during the night and having trouble returning to sleep)
• Waking up too early in the morning
• Unrefreshing sleep (or "non-restorative sleep")
• Fatigue or low energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood disturbance, such as irritability
• Feeling impulsive or aggression
• Difficulty at work or school
• Difficulty in personal relationships, including family, friends and caregivers

The duration of insomnia is important, notes the NSF, and doctors consider insomnia chronic if it

occurs at least three nights per week for three months or longer.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Sleep Disorders and Alcohol Abuse

If you suffer from both symptoms of sleep disorders and alcohol abuse, you may need specialized treatment and a personalized plan for recovery. At Hope Academy, we offer evidence-based dual diagnosis treatment for young adults facing both substance abuse and co-occurring issues like sleep disorders. To learn more, call today: 866-930-4673.

Happy Hour Alternatives That Help Your Recovery

For many young professionals, their social lives can easily revolve around drinking. Happy hour can become a go-to activity several nights a week. For those in recovery, however, happy hour can be a major relapse trigger. 

The good news: There are several alternatives that can achieve the same goal – to connect with coworkers, friends or clients or shake off stress, for instance – and they don’t involve heading to your local bar. Here are a few sober activities to help your social life and lasting sobriety: 

• Meditate together. It’s likely not news by now that people who meditate regularly are calmer, more focused and more ready to take on whatever life brings – traits that certainly won’t hurt your recovery. Research a local meditation class; some studios even offer “happy hour” classes. 
• Master something new. A big part of staying sober is creating a fulfilling life, without drugs or alcohol. To this end, now is the perfect time to find a new passion or hobby – whether cooking, painting or knitting. Plus, you’ll meet new friends with shared interests.
• Sign up for a local sports league. Whether you enjoy softball or soccer, social sports come with a host of benefits, including team-building and tension release, that will serve you during rehab and beyond. 
• Start a monthly book club. Reading is a great recovery activity that’s been linked to better sleep and stress management, to name a few. What’s more, it will help form a meaningful connection with coworkers as you meet each month to share your ideas and chitchat about the book and more.

Career Prep During Rehab

Happy hour, holiday parties and other places or events can trigger the desire to use. At Hope Academy, you’ll learn to identify and avoid these relapse triggers. To learn more about our job preparation services or speak with a member of the Hope Academy team, call today: 866-930-4673.

Caffeine Addiction and College

According to one study, more than 78 percent of college freshmen consume above the recommended amount of caffeine per day, or more than 400 milligrams (mg). That's roughly the amount of caffeine in four cups of brewed coffee, 10 cans of cola or two "energy shot" drinks, though caffeine content can vary widely in these beverages.

Sure, caffeine can give you the boost you need to stay awake in class and finish your work, but it certainly won’t boost your grades. One study even showed that students who drink a cup of coffee or more have lower grade point averages than those who don't. And as students drink more daily cups of coffee, the lower their GPA becomes. 

It’s very easy to become too reliant on caffeinated drinks. This is partly because just cutting out 100 milligrams per day (five to eight ounces of coffee, two cans of soda, or two or three cups of tea) can cause withdrawal symptoms that are bad for your health and sobriety, including:

• Jitters
• Anxiety
• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Disrupted heart rhythm 
• Depression

What’s more, it can become a slippery slope when you begin turning to caffeine in lieu of practicing healthy habits — such as establishing good sleeping routines and practicing time management. Here are some easy ways to stay alert without the buzz of caffeine. 

• Take a nap. As long as it's about six or seven hours prior to bedtime and not for too long (no longer than 25 minutes), napping is a great way to recharge.
• Eat a small snack. Low blood sugar is another energy suck. A small mini meal with a combo of healthy fat and protein can help keep blood sugar stable and energy levels high. Some ideas: avocado toast, peanut or nut butter and celery or carrots and hummus. 
• Drink water. Dehydration is a major culprit of fatigue. Water will recharge your mind, body and metabolism.
• Step outside: If you feel yourself dragging during the day, get up and soak up some sunshine. Exposure to the sun will make you feel instantly energized.

Healthy Possibilities
When you choose Hope Academy's rehab, you open the possibility for a whole new life. And, perhaps the best part, you don’t have to leave college behind or put career preparation on hold. We offer vocational training, college prep, and sobriety college options that allow you to pursue your dreams while you get clean. To learn more, call today: 866-930-4673. 

Severe Anxiety Among Teens at All-Time High

Anxiety disorder is of growing concern on college campuses – surpassing depression as the most common reason students seek counseling services, according to The New York Times – and the numbers are increasingly climbing when it comes to teens. 

According to recent data from the American College Health Association’s 2016 survey, 62 percent of undergraduate students reported “overwhelming anxiety.” This was up from 50 percent in 2011. And 41 percent of students said they felt overwhelmed; a significant increase from 29 percent in 2010.

Occasional anxiety – before taking a test or making an important decision, for example – is a normal part of life. However, when anxiety worsens and interferes with school and job performance, social activities or friends and family, it could signal an anxiety disorder, which requires professional help.

Spotting the Signs of Anxiety Disorder
Sadly, 80 percent of kids with a diagnosable anxiety disorder are not getting treatment, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). Even if you don’t personally experience anxiety, your roommate or friend may need help. Here are a few symptoms to watch out for:

• Excessive worry
• Sleep disturbance (difficulty falling or staying asleep, or restless, unsatisfying sleep)
• Irrational fears
• Muscle tension
• Chronic indigestion
• Panic attacks
• Restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge
• Being easily fatigued
• Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
• Irritability

About Sobriety College at Hope Academy

If you are or someone you love is a college student struggling with a mental illness and substance use disorder, Hope Academy may be the ideal rehab program for you. Our peer-based rehab program provides the safety and support you need to succeed in school and at sobriety. We even provide transportation to and from the center, school, and sober activities. To learn more about our college home and sobriety program, call today: 866-930-4673.

Substance Abuse and Sleep Disorders

If you can’t seem to fall asleep and/or find yourself wide-awake in the middle of night, you’re not alone. Sleep troubles are a common complaint among those with substance use disorders. In fact, those in early recovery have a five times greater risk of insomnia than the general population. And many people with alcohol use disorder (AUD) have insomnia before entering treatment. 

On average, people who struggle with substance abuse also struggle with getting the recommended 7 to 8 hours of shut-eye per night. Instead, studies show total nightly sleep averages as 5.5 hours. Some people in recovery can continue to have sleep problems for weeks, months, or sometimes years after initiating abstinence, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration  (SAMHSA). 

Sleep loss can have a major impact on the physical, mental and emotional well-being of people in recovery — and it can even interfere with treatment. The most common sleep problems linked with alcohol and drug abuse, include: 

• Poor sleep quality
• Insomnia
• Sleep apnea
• Restless leg syndrome
• Narcolepsy

How to Get Sleep-Smart 

A little sleep hygiene can go a long way in helping your sleep habits. Here are a few smart slumber tips from SAMHSA: 

• Go to bed and get up at the same times each day.
• Exercise regularly.
• If you take naps, keep them short and before 5 pm.
• Don’t eat or drink too much when it's close to bedtime.
• Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, chocolate, cola) and nicotine for several hours before bedtime.
• Wind down before going to bed. Some examples: take a warm bath, do light reading, practice relaxation exercises.
• Don’t lie in bed awake. If you can’t fall asleep within 20 minutes, get up and do something relaxing.

Dual-Diagnosis Treatment Program For Sleep Disorders And Substance AbuseIf you suffer from both symptoms of sleep disorders and substance abuse, you may need specialized treatment and a personalized plan for recovery. At Hope Academy, we offer evidence-based dual diagnosis treatment for young adults facing both substance abuse and co-occurring issues like sleep disorders. To learn more, call today: 866-930-4673.

How Social Media Can Save a Life

Numerous studies have noted the harmful effects of social media on your mental health – but, when used properly, platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat can also be a positive way to connect those in need to proper mental health care and support. 

Personal social media accounts “can provide an important window into a person’s state of mind,” according to research by the Department of Defense Suicide Prevention Office.

As part of its Mental Illness Awareness Week efforts, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) recently ran an article entitled “Can Social Media Save a Life?” that talked about how social media can be used to identify mental health warning signs among friends and family. 

“It’s up to us to look out for mental health warning signs while on social media so we are better prepared to assist a friend in need,” wrote NAMI. 

Here are some of the behaviors to watch out for: 

1. Cyberbullying

• Harassing messages or comments
• Fake accounts made to impersonate someone else
• Someone posting unwanted pictures or images of another person

2. Negative statements about themselves, even if it sounds like they are joking:

• “I’m a waste of space.”
• “No one cares about me.”
• “I seriously hate myself.”

3. Negative leading statements, with little to no context that prompt others to respond:

• “You wouldn’t believe what I’ve been through.”
• “Today was the worst day ever.”
• “It’s like everyone is against me.”

As you scroll through your social media feeds, the NAMI urges you to be mindful of what others are posting. This way, you can know when to reach out and offer support or even "save a life."

Dual-Diagnosis Treatment at Hope Academy
Existing mental health issues often surface during addiction recovery. That’s why we offer treatment protocols for co-occurring substance use disorders and mental illnesses. To learn more, call today: 866-930-4673.

Studies Show Dangers of Underage Binge Drinking

Two studies came out this month that focused on binge drinking and college – and both results provided even more reasons for students to skip the binge sessions. Though binge drinking isn’t recommended for anyone, at any age.

What is binge drinking? The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism defines it as “ingesting four or more alcoholic drinks within two hours by a woman and five or more alcoholic drinks within two hours by a man.”

The first study, published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, found that heavy drinking six times a month reduces the probability that a new college graduate will land a job by 10 percent. Researchers from the Smithers Institute found that each individual episode of student binge drinking during a month-long period lowers the odds of attaining full-time employment upon graduation by 1.4 percent.

The second study, published in Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience, found that binge drinking altered the resting brain activity of some college students and may have led to cognitive difficulties. 

Students who reported binge drinking within the last 30 days displayed higher measurements of activity known as beta and theta oscillations in the right temporal lobe and bilateral occipital cortex brain regions, said researchers. And these changes might indicate a decreased ability to respond to external stimuli and potential difficulties in information processing capacity in young binge drinkers. These are the first signs of alcohol-induced brain damage.  

These brain changes among college binge drinkers is likely due to the plasticity of their young and still-developing brains, say researchers. Many experts believe the brain continues to develop well into young adulthood and doesn’t stop changing until an individual reaches 25 years of age. 

Stopping the Side Effects of Alcohol Abuse 

The best way to combat the physical and emotional health consequences of a substance use disorder is early intervention. Don’t wait. If you or someone you love has a drinking problem, Hope Academy can help you get the help you need today. To learn more about our young adult alcohol rehab, call toll-free today: 866-930-4673.

Study: Vaping Ups Smoking Risk for Teens

We already know that adolescent e-cig users are more likely to start smoking cigarettes – but a new study found that trying e-cigarettes can double their risk for smoking tobacco. Students in grades seven to 12 who had tried an e-cigarette are 2.16 times more likely to be susceptible to cigarette smoking, according to researchers from the University of Waterloo and Wake Forest School of Medicine.

"Since e-cigarettes came on the market there has been a debate about whether their use may lead to cigarette smoking," said Bruce Baskerville, co-author on the study and a researcher at the Propel Centre for Population Health Impact at the University of Waterloo, in a statement. "The answer among adolescents is yes."

More Facts About E-Cigarettes and Adolescents

About 3 million middle- and high-school students use e-cigarettes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The National Institute on Drug Abuse put together an infographic containing some more essential facts on e-cigs and adolescents, including:

• Teens are more likely to use e-cigarettes than cigarettes. Past-month use of e-cigarettes was 9.5 percent among 8th graders, 14.0 percent among 10th graders, and 16.2 percent among 12 graders.
• Two times as many boys use e-cigs as girls.
• Teens don’t know what’s in their e-cig. Manufacturers don’t have to report e-cig ingredients, so users don’t know what’s actually in them. In fact, 66 percent of teens believe that their e-cig just contains flavoring.
• Seven in 10 teens are exposed to e-cig ads. Among high school students, 56.3 percent are exposed to retail ads, 42.9 percent to internet ads, 38.4 percent to TV and movie ads, and 34.6 percent to newspaper and magazine ads.

Young Adults and Substance Abuse

Those who use nicotine at a young age are at an exponentially greater risk of using harder drugs. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse disorder, call today: 866-930-4673. At Hope Academy's rehab for younger adults, we walk beside you through the most overwhelming parts of addiction withdrawal, recovery and restoration. 

Striking a Healthy Balance: Giving College Kids Independence and Connection

In 2016, first-year college students reported all-time highs when it came to anxiety and depression. Similarly, college mental health services reported an increase in students seeking assistance and support for depression, anxiety, addictions and peer pressure to engage in dangerous drinking and sexual behaviors.

One explanation, say experts, is that the human brain doesn’t completely mature until about age 25 – and the last area to develop is the part of the brain responsible for good judgment. What’s more, 75 percent of all mental health conditions begin by age 24, making the college years a critical time for mental health support.

A recent article on Quartz.com titled “Helicopter parenting is bad for college kids—but a little hovering is just right” offered some good insight on how to find that delicate balance between letting college kids gain independence while providing some much-needed parental guidance and mental health support. 

Here’s a summary of some of their best tips: 

• Guide, don’t pressure, your loved ones. This includes respecting their point of view, listening more than talking and asking follow-up questions to actively express your interest in what they tell you. 
• Share own life and ups and downs. Transitioning to a more adult, mutual relationship means shifting the conversation to include your own experiences as well. 
• Set up clear expectations. Be direct about your thoughts about communication, finances, sexual relations, roommate arrangements, and drug and alcohol use. But listen to your child’s point of view, too. 
• Allow for mistakes. And make it clear that you are available if/when they need help rectifying a slip-up. 
• Emphasize that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. And you can go a step further and help them find and make use of mental health services on and off campus. 
• Don’t overlook college resources – for your child and for yourself. Many colleges offer workshops for parents during parents’ weekend, for example, as well as year-round online resources. 

Our Dual-Diagnosis Treatment 

At Hope Academy, we offer a highly individualized approach for young adults struggling with substance abuse and mental health conditions. Our proven treatment includes group and individual therapy, recreational therapy, nutrition and exercise, support groups, medication management, family therapy and aftercare planning. To learn more, call today: 866-930-4673. 

World Suicide Prevention Day

September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), organized by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and co-sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO). The purpose of this day is to raise awareness around the globe that suicide can be prevented.

"Take a Minute, Change a Life" is this year’s theme and, to this end, the organization will be releasing findings from a national stigma survey with the aim of better understanding attitudes and behaviors that need to change in order to prevent suicide.

College Suicide: Recognizing the Warning Signs
Suicide is the second most common cause of death among college students. Studies show that every two hours and 12 minutes, someone between the ages of 15 and 24 dies of suicide. Since suicide is most commonly caused by untreated depression, it’s important to learn the typical signs of depression that indicate a cry for help. This may include: 

• Trouble handling schoolwork
• A lack of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Changes in eating habits or sleeping patterns
• Low levels of energy or a feeling of being drained
• Feeling hopeless, trapped or in unbearable pain
• Emotional outbursts (i.e. crying or being easily irritated) or mood swings 
• Changes in relationships, including sexual promiscuity
• Self-destructive behavior (i.e. substance abuse, cutting)

Any mere thought or mention at all of suicide warrants immediate attention. If you believe someone is at risk of suicide, don’t be afraid to ask if they are thinking about killing themselves. This won't put the idea into their heads or make it more likely that they’ll attempt suicide, notes the U.S. Surgeon General. Speaking with a mental health professional or counselor is also a great first step.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Young Adults
At Hope Academy, we conduct a series of tests upon admission to determine if mental illness is complicating substance abuse. Once we gain a comprehensive understanding of each patient’s individual health challenges, our addiction treatment team develops a customized program. To learn more, call 866-930-4673. 

Overdoses in Adolescents on the Rise

Opioids strike again – and this time it’s among U.S. teens, whose rate of overdoses doubled from 1999 to 2015, according to newly released figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

In 2015 alone, there were 772 drug overdose deaths for adolescents ages 15 through 19 and they died at a rate of 3.7 per 100,000, according to the CDC. This is yet another stark reminder of the dangers of opioids. 

Boys and girls show different rates of use, with male adolescents being far more susceptible. In 2015, overdose rates for teenage boys rose to 4.6%, while teenage girl rates rose to 2.7%.

The study found that opioids had the highest death rate, followed by benzodiazepines (including Valium and Xanax) – and a combination of these drugs is what often lead to overdose. And heroin and fentanyl (often unintentional) were higher on the list than semisynthetic opioids (painkillers such as hydrocodone and oxycodone). Perhaps proof that solving the opioid crisis takes more than reducing the prescribing of opioids, say researchers. 

3 Facts About Fentanyl

The Partnership for Drug-Free Kids urges parents to understand more about fentanyl to keep their families safe. Here are three of the most important facts to know. 

1. Fentanyl is 50 to 100 times more potent than heroin or morphine. It is a schedule II prescription drug typically used to treat patients with severe pain or to manage pain after surgery. 

2. It is relatively cheap to produce, increasing its presence in illicit street drugs. According to a report from the Office of National Drug Control Policy, evidence suggests that fentanyl is being pressed into pills that resemble OxyContin, Xanax and hydrocodone as well as being cut into heroin and other street drugs. 

3. Naloxone (Narcan) will work in case of overdose, but extra doses may be needed.

Because fentanyl is far more powerful than other opioids, the standard 1-2 doses of naloxone may not be enough. Calling 911 is the first step in responding to any overdose, but in the case of a fentanyl-related overdose the help of emergency responders, who will have more naloxone, is critical.

Getting Help for Opioid Abuse
For information about Hope Academy's young adult substance abuse treatment program, or to begin the admissions process for a loved one, call today: 866-930-4673.

Energy Drinks: The New Gateway Drug?

It’s not news that college students turn to drinks like Red Bull or Monster to survive long days or pull all-nighters prior to exams. Yet new research says that these energy drinks may be the new gateway drug. 

Young adults who regularly consume energy drinks have a 50 percent high risk of developing a substance use disorder later in life than nonusers, according to a new study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence.

“The results suggest that energy drink users might be at heightened risk for other substance use, particularly stimulants,” said researcher Amelia Arria in a statement. This includes cocaine, non-prescription stimulants and alcohol.

What’s more, these energy drinks could negatively impact those already in recovery from drug and alcohol abuse. This is because energy drinks offer a convenient replacement high, note experts. 

Healthy Ways to Stay Alert and Awake

Before you reach for that can of Red Bull, try one of these remedies that stimulate your senses and rev up your energy without the health risks. 

• Fuel each a.m. Your morning meal can help set the stage for your energy for the rest of the day. Focus on whole grains, fruits and healthy proteins. 
• Turn on the lights. More light exposure leads to more alertness, so pull open the shades, turn on the lights or, better yet, step outside into the sunshine. 
• Cue the music. Whether rock, hip hop or jazz, upbeat music can help to boost your energy. Singing, whistling or humming will work, too. 
• Sip on water. Dehydration can cause you to feel sluggish and sleepy so be sure to drink water throughout the day. 
• Get moving. Whether you wiggle your feet or walk around the block, movement is perhaps the best fatigue fighter. One study of sleep-deprived college women showed that a short walk up and down the stairs can give you a better boost than a cup of coffee. 

Healthy Possibilities
When you choose Hope Academy's rehab, you open the possibility for a whole new life. And, perhaps the best part, you don’t have to leave college behind or put career preparation on hold. We offer vocational training, college prep, and sobriety college options that allow you to pursue your dreams while you get clean. To learn more, call today: 866-930-4673. 

Do Your Instagram Posts Signal Depression?

Can your Instagram posts hold clues to your mental health? Possibly, according to researchers who used computer algorithms to determine characteristics associated with depression. 

For the study, published in the journal EPJ Data Science, researchers recruited 166 people, 71 of whom had a history of depression. They used a computer program to analyze nearly 44,000 photos, including each photo’s hue, color saturation and brightness, as well as the number of faces it contained. 

“People in our sample who were depressed tended to post photos that, on a pixel-by-pixel basis, were bluer, darker and grayer on average than healthy people,” said Andrew Reece, a postdoctoral researcher at Harvard University and co-author of the study with Christopher Danforth, a professor at the University of Vermont.

Other findings among those with a history of depression included: 

• More human faces posted.
• Less of face shown, when including a photo with their face.
• Less use of Instagram filters to adjust photo's brightness and coloring.
• Greater use of the Inkwell filter (which would make the photo black and white) when they did use filters.
• More frequent Instagram posts.
• More comments on their Instagram posts.
• Fewer likes. 

The researchers also said that "our model showed considerable improvement over the ability of unassisted general practitioners to correctly diagnose depression," which is a bit of a leap, according to many experts.  

Spotting the Signs of Depression
Perhaps rather than paying too much attention to your Instagram account, you’ll want to pay attention to the warning signs of depression, including:

• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Insomnia
• Sleeping too much
• Changes in appetite or weight 
• Physical pain
• Memory problems
• Social withdrawal
• Unexplained sadness 
• Loss of interest in hobbies/activities

Getting Help for Depression and Addiction
As addiction worsens, so does the co-occurring condition — and vice versa. At Hope Academy, we specialize in treating both diseases simultaneously. To learn more, call us toll-free today: 866-930-4673.

First-Semester Stress: Coping With Anxiety Disorder at College

For some students, the first few weeks of the new school year are exciting. It’s a time to meet new friends, start new classes, and get back into the swing of things. But for people with anxiety disorders, the new school year can bring upon feelings of constant worry and fear. And this can happen before classes begin or well into the first half of the school year. 

Tips for Tackling Anxiety

Your first step in managing this back-to-school anxiety is to remind yourself that you’re not alone. According to Mental Health America (MHA), more than 21 percent of U.S. adults between ages 18 and 64 will have diagnosable anxiety disorders in a given year. To put things in perspective: That’s more than the number of people who subscribed to Netflix in 2015, notes MHA. 

Here’s a summary of some of MHA's go-to strategies for managing anxiety disorder. 

• Reach out to someone you trust. Let them know that your anxiety has gotten the best of you and that you need support. That may mean asking them to talk you through it over the phone or to come over and keep you company while you work on putting your mind at ease. 
• Get physical. Take a brisk walk, run up and down some stairs or do a few jumping jacks. Give your body a way to use up some of the nervous energy. 
• Find a healthy distraction. Play scrabble on your smartphone or try an adult coloring book. Repetitive actions can have a calming effect similar to meditation.
• Breathe deeply. Try this technique: Lie on your back and breathe in through your nose, watching your belly rise as you inhale. Hold your breath for a few seconds then exhale deeply through your mouth, watching your belly fall as you exhale. Repeat until you feel yourself relax. 
• Focus on things you can control. Organize your desk, write down your weekly to-do list, pick out your clothes for the week – taking care of small tasks can help empower you to take control of your anxiety. 
• Avoid the shame game. Telling yourself that you’re being unreasonable will only further fuel your anxiety. It’s okay to feel anxious and stressed and scared – but do your best to accept those feelings and then take action to feel better. 

Help for Anxiety Disorder and Addiction
If you're struggling with a dual diagnosis or substance abuse disorder, embrace a new beginning at Hope Academy Rehab. When you trust us with your recovery, you don’t have to leave college behind or put career preparation on hold. We offer vocational training, college prep, and sobriety college options that allow you to pursue your dreams while you get clean. Call today: 866-930-4673. 

New Study: College Students Aren't Binge Drinking As Much

A new study shed light on binge drinking among young adults (ages 18 to 24) and there’s both good and bad news. 

First, the good: Binge drinking – which researchers defined as five or more drinks at one time – is down among college students. It declined from 45 percent in 2005 to 37 percent in 2014, according to the results published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs.

And now, the bad: Among non-college students, binge drinking increased by 4 percent between 1999 and 2014. And alcohol-related overdose hospitalizations and deaths rose among 18- to 24-year-olds.

Study author Ralph Hingson thinks the disparity may be due to college administrators who are working to curb troublesome drinking. "Among young adults who aren't in college, there aren't the same organizational supports to implement interventions, and that may be contributing to why binge drinking is increasing in that group," Hingson said in a statement.

Two other possible factors: less disposable income to spend on alcohol and the lowered legal limit for drivers, say researchers, who began the study in 1998 following the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) decision to start a task force looking at college drinking. 

How Much Is a Drink?

To avoid binge drinking and its consequences, college and non-college students are advised to track the number of drinks they consume over a give period of time, notes the NIAAA. In the U.S., a standard drink contains about 14 grams of pure alcohol. 

A few examples: 

• 12 ounces of beer with 5 percent alcohol content
• 5 ounces of wine with 12 percent alcohol content
• 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits with 40 percent alcohol content

Although these standard drink amounts are helpful guidelines, they don’t necessarily reflect customary serving sizes, says the NIAAA. A large cup of beer, an over-poured glass of wine, or a single mixed drink could contain much more alcohol than a standard drink. What’s more, the alcohol content within each type of beverage can also vary.

Sobriety College at Hope Academy

If you are or someone you love is a college student caught in the throes of substance abuse, Hope Academy may be the ideal rehab program for you. Our peer-based rehab program provides the safety and support you need to succeed in school and at sobriety. To learn more, call today: 866-930-4673.

Study: ADHD Meds Tied to Lower Substance Abuse Risk

Contrary to popular myth, using medication to treat attention deficient hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) helps to prevent substance use disorders among adolescents and adults with ADHD, according to new research.

The study, which involved nearly three million people with ADHD in the United States, found that medication lowered the risk in men by 35 percent and women by 31 percent. The results were published in the American Journal of Psychiatry.

“This study contributes to growing evidence that ADHD medication is linked to lower risk for many types of harmful behavior, including substance abuse,” said Patrick D. Quinn, a postdoctoral researcher who led the study. “The results also highlight the importance of careful diagnosis and compliance with treatment.”

When ADHD Drugs Become Dangerous

Indeed, if you have ADHD, prescription stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin have numerous benefits. However, abusing these drugs or using them when you don’t have ADHD, can lead to some serious health problems, including:

• Disrupted brain function
• Mood swings
• Depression
• Loss of sleep
• Increased blood pressure
• Elevated heart rate
• Dizziness and fainting
• Heart attack or stroke
• Increased body temperature

Combining prescription stimulants with other drugs or alcohol can also be dangerous. This is because stimulants can conceal the effects of alcohol, for example, making it harder to gauge your level of intoxication. The result: over-consumption, significant impairment of coordination and judgment, blacking out, passing out and potential death.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Young Adults

Did you know that 70 percent of people with a substance use disorder are also battling an additional mental illness? If you or someone you love is suffering from addiction and ADHD don’t wait to seek treatment. As addiction worsens, so does the co-occurring condition — and vice versa. At Hope Academy, we specialize in treating both diseases simultaneously. To learn more, call us toll-free today: 866-930-4673.

Study: Binge Drinking and Your Brain

Binge drinking can do some serious damage to your brain, according to a mini review published in Frontiers in Psychology. 

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines binge drinking as a pattern of drinking that brings blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels to 0.08 g/dL. This typically occurs after 4 drinks for women and 5 drinks for men — in about two hours, notes the NIAAA.

Researchers found that this type of heavy drinking among young adults can lead to a thinning or reduction of areas of the brain that impact: 

• Inhibition
• Memory
• Verbal learning 
• Decision making and reward processing
• Alcohol cue reactivity
• Socio-cognitive/socio-emotional processing

What’s more, "these brain alterations, as a result of heavy alcohol use during adolescence and young adulthood, could result in increased risk of developing an alcohol use disorder later on in life,” said study author Anita Cservenka, Assistant Professor at Oregon State University.

More Side Effects of Binge Drinking

Binge drinking can result in serious health, safety and academic risks. Binge drinkers who consumed alcohol at least 3 times per week were roughly 6 times more likely than those who drank but never binged to perform poorly on a test or project as a result of drinking, according to the NIAAA. Over time, frequent binge drinking can also cause damage to the liver and other organs.

Other consequences of binge drinking include a higher risk of:

• Alcohol use disorders
• Car crashes
• Drunk-driving arrests
• Sexual assaults and unsafe sex
• Suicide attempts
• Injuries  

Stopping the Side Effects of Alcohol Abuse 

The best way to combat the physical and emotional health consequences of a substance use disorder is early intervention. Don’t wait. If you or someone you love has a drinking problem, Hope Academy can help you get the help you need today. To learn more about our young adult alcohol rehab, call toll-free today: 866-930-4673.

The Advantages of Combining College and Rehab

Recovering from an addiction doesn’t have to put a stop to your education. Yet transitioning to college when in recovery from a substance use disorder can be challenging. While most young adults relish the freedom and independence of going away to school, the additional social pressures to drink or use drugs — plus the stress of being apart from loved ones and trusted treatment professionals — can be detrimental to recovery. 

For many young adults, combining rehab and academics into one program is the perfect solution for sustained recovery. Beyond helping you to reach your recovery and academic goals, participating in a college program at a well-established rehab center can offer you or someone you love a wide range of benefits and advantages, including: 

• Lessens relapse triggers and risk of relapse.
• Offers a structured learning environment.
• Keeps you on track by making sure you are going to class and doing homework.
• Provides periodic drug tests.
• Minimizes “taking a break” or a “stop-start” approach to education. 
• Keeps you focused while achieving your sobriety and education goals.
• Teaches strategies for coping with the stress of college-oriented tasks.
• Builds a sober social network of peers.
• Provides sober extracurricular activities. 
• Gives added support via a dedicated academic counselor to help you balance sobriety and academic.

About Sobriety College at Hope Academy

If you are or someone you love is a college student caught in the throes of substance abuse, Hope Academy may be the ideal rehab program for you. Our peer-based rehab program provides the safety and support you need to succeed in school and at sobriety. We even provide transportation to and from the center, school, and sober activities. To learn more about our college home and sobriety program, call today: 866-930-4673.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor If You or Your Loved One Is Prescribed an Opioid

With around a hundred people overdosing every day due to opioids — and doctors still relying heavily on these addictive painkillers to treat chronic pain — it’s more important than ever to be an active member of your healthcare team. Simply put: Patient education must be part of your pain med RX.

Here are some key questions to ask your doctor if you or someone you love is prescribed pain pills:

• Are there any non-opioid alternatives or complementary therapies that could help with pain management?
• When should I schedule a follow-up appointment to check how well the meds are working?
• How do I stop using or taper off opioids safely?
• What can I do to reduce the risk of potential side effects from opioids?
• What if I have a history or family history of addiction?
• Are there any serious signs that prompt a call to the doctor or visit to the hospital? For example: excessive sleepiness or craving more of the medication.
• What should I do if I’m still feeling pain?
• Are there any possible interactions with other medications I’m taking? For example: prescriptions for anxiety or sleep problems or any over-the-counter meds that contain acetaminophen.
• How can I tell if I’m developing a tolerance to the medication?
• What are some of the early signs of abuse? For example: watching the clock for your next dose; getting in more arguments with your friends or family members; trouble sleeping; calling for early refills.
• What are the signs of an opioid overdose?
• Do I need a prescription for a naloxone kit? (This medication temporarily restores breathing during an opioid overdose.)
• What’s the best way to safely store my opioid medication?
• How do I dispose of unused opioids?

Addiction Treatment for Young Adults
Young adults (age 18 to 25) are the biggest abusers of prescription opioid pain relievers, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. And early intervention is the most successful treatment. If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid addiction, don’t wait to get help. Call today: 866-930-4673.

Why You Should Be Aware of ADHD

Do you get to the end of a page in a book and forget what you just read? Do you tend to forget to set your alarm and miss class? Do you overspend or shop impulsively? These are just a few of the many behaviors related to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) that you may recognize in yourself or in someone you love. 

Untreated ADHD is risky business. Not only does it negatively impact your productivity and personal relationships, but it also makes you more vulnerable to addiction. In fact, people with untreated ADHD are four times more likely to abuse substances. One reason is because many people with ADHD mistakenly self-medicate with alcohol or drugs instead of seeking proper treatment.

Recognizing the Symptoms of ADHD

Often, ADHD symptoms go undetected until college. Researchers chalk this up to the structure of high school as well as the structure provided at home by parents. In general, students with ADHD have more academic concerns, lower GPAs, more depression and emotional stability and higher rates of smoking cigarettes and substance abuse. Other signs, according to Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), include:

• Does not work to potential
• High IQ but low grades
• Consistently late to appointments
• Impulsive spending
• Difficulties with organization
• Papers fall out of the backpack
• May have difficulty getting along with roommates or other peers

Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Young Adults

Did you know that 70 percent of people with a substance use disorder are also battling an additional mental illness? If you or someone you love is suffering from addiction and ADHD don’t wait to seek treatment. As addiction worsens, so does the co-occurring condition — and vice versa. At Hope Academy, we specialize in treating both diseases simultaneously. To learn more, call us toll-free today: 866-930-4673.

Why Sleep Matters for College Students

If you’re a college student, chances are you’re sleep deprived or not getting enough quality sleep. But sleep really matters. And this is especially true if you play sports in school, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Results from a preliminary report found that poor sleep can lead to an increased risk of substance abuse among college athletes. 

Students with sleep difficulties were found to be: 

• 151 percent more likely to use cigarettes
• 36 percent more likely to drink alcohol
• 66 percent more likely to smoke marijuana
• 317 percent more likely to use methamphetamine
• 349 percent more likely to use cocaine
• 175 percent more likely to use steroids

"Across the board, students with sleep difficulties were more likely to smoke, drink, and use illegal substances,” said senior author Michael Grander, PhD, director of the Sleep and Health Research Program at the University of Arizona in Tucson. 

In yet another recent sleep study, called the "SNAPSHOT study," researchers found that keeping a regular sleep pattern contributes to the happiness and well-being of college students.

"We found that week-long irregular sleep schedules are significantly associated with lower self-reported morning and evening happiness, healthiness, and calmness during the week even after controlling for weekly average sleep duration," said lead author Akane Sano, PhD, research scientist in the Media Lab Affective Computing Group at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge.

More Reasons to Prioritize Sleep

Indeed, lack of sleep has been linked with a bunch of physical and emotional health risks, including

• Lowered immune system
• Feeling more stressed out
• Increased weight gain and obesity
• Lower GPA and decreased academic performance
• Increased mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety
• Increased automobile accidents due to fatigue caused by “drowsy driving”
• Decreased performance in athletics and other activities that require coordination

Healthy Possibilities
When you choose Hope Academy's rehab, you open the possibility for a whole new life. And, perhaps the best part, you don’t have to leave college behind or put career preparation on hold. We offer vocational training, college prep, and sobriety college options that allow you to pursue your dreams while you get clean. To learn more, call today: 866-930-4673. 

Tips to Make Friendships Last

Simply put: Good friends are good for you and for your overall recovery. Not only can the right friend help you get through life’s ups and downs, but friendship has been linked to a slew of health benefits, including a reduced risk of anxiety and depression. 

Like anything else in life, however, friendship requires work and devotion to ensure it keeps going. So how can you make your relationships last? Start nurturing your connections today with these tips.

• Focus on the present. Don’t get caught up in what you used to do together. Instead, embrace the present and future and accept your new lives and roles within the friendship.
• Put your smartphone down! Spending quality time with a friend means making eye contact and paying attention to the present conversation or task at hand. Similarly, texts and Facebook posts should be supplements (not replacements) of person-to-person interaction. 
• Be honest and open. It’s okay to talk about why you value you each other as a friend as well as what you could both be doing better. Consider writing down these answers and ask your friend to do the same to spark a healthy dialogue.  
• Really listen. Don't just wait for your turn to talk when you’ve having a conversation. You’ve likely heard that communication is a two-way street – and this means that you need to concentrate on what your friend is saying and think carefully about what your friend needs to hear from you in response.

Get Aftercare at Hope Academy
Upon returning home from rehab, it’s all-too-easy to gravitate to former patterns, dangerous environmental triggers, and toxic relationships, so we created a supportive transition between treatment completion and the return home to give you the best chance at sustained sobriety. To learn more, call: 855-221-1717.

What You Should Know About Blackouts

Blacking out from drinking continues to be a big problem among young adults, especially on college campuses. Here, we take a look at some basic info on blackouts, so you and your loved ones can prevent this dangerous yet often misunderstood alcohol-induced impairment.

What Is a Blackout?
There are two types of blackouts, according to experts: en bloc, or complete blackout when you can’t recall any events during the time spent drinking and fragmentary-memory loss when you can only recall a portion of the events during the drinking period of time.  

Blacking out is not the same as “passing out,” or loss of consciousness due to excessive drinking. Perhaps the scariest (and trickiest) part about blacking out —whether it happens to you or someone you love — is that you’re conscious and awake so others may think you’re aware of what you’re doing and don’t need any help.  

What Causes a Blackout?
A blackout is caused when alcohol quickly enters the brain and disrupts the neurotransmitters of the brain. You don't necessary need to consume large amounts of alcohol to blackout; it’s more about rapid consumption that results in a rapid rise in blood alcohol concentration. The following factors increase your risk of a blackout: 

• How alcohol is ingested (for example, binge drinking or drinking on an empty stomach)
• Gender: women are at greater risk than men of experiencing a blackout even with lower levels of alcohol consumption. 
• Genetic susceptibility

Why Is a Blackout Dangerous?

A single blackout is not necessarily a sign of alcoholism, yet repeated blackouts have been linked to alcohol use disorder. What’s more, blackouts can lead to potentially dangerous behaviors and events, including: 

• Unprotected, forced, or unwanted sex
• Driving under the influence
• Vandalism
• Losing track of your belongings
• Saying things you don’t mean (or will regret saying later)
  

Getting Help for Alcohol Abuse

According to the NIAAA, the young adult subgroup makes up 31.5 percent of alcoholics. At Hope Academy, we provide a safe environment in which teens and young adults feel comfortable sharing their concerns and setting sobriety goals. To learn more, call 866-930-4673.

Suicide: Know the Warning Signs

Suicide seems to be rampant in the news lately – what with the controversial Netflix series “13 Reasons Why” and the recent suicide of Chris Cornell, Soundgarden and Audioslave frontman. 

Why not use this opportunity to talk about suicide – the stats are downright scary. One in 10 college students have considered suicide and it's the second-leading cause of death in college-age students. 

While suicide is very serious, it’s also very preventable. Here’s a look at some of the warning signs and what you should do if you notice them in yourself or someone you love, according to the U.S. Surgeon General and of the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention.

Warning signs of suicidal behaviors include… 

• Talking about wanting to die
• Feeling hopeless, trapped or in unbearable pain
• Looking for a way to kill oneself
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
• Acting anxious, agitated or reckless
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Withdrawing or feeling isolated
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
• Displaying extreme mood swings

If you believe someone is at risk of suicide …

• Ask them if they are thinking about killing themselves. (This won't put the idea into their heads or make it more likely that they will attempt suicide, according to the U.S. Surgeon General.
• Call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-TALK.
• Take the person to a nearby emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional.
• Remove any objects that could potentially be used in a suicide attempt.
• If possible, don’t leave the person alone.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Young Adults
At Hope Academy, we conduct a series of tests upon admission to determine if mental illness is complicating substance abuse. Once we gain a comprehensive understanding of each patient’s individual health challenges, our addiction treatment team develops a customized program. To learn more, call 866-930-4673.