NorthCommunityMag

Resource Guide

Alcohol changes Study finds THE BRAIN From the very first drink

underserved and undeterred

FIGHTING

FIRE WITH FIRE

Therapy EMDR

BOOMING PROBLEM

CONTACT US: 1855 E Dublin Granville Rd STE 204

Columbus, Ohio 43229 northcommunity.com 614.261.3196

EMDR Therapy What is EMDR therapy and how does it work? EMDR is the acronym for Eye Movement Desensitization and

Reprocessing. It was created by Francine Shapiro in 1987 and is now recommended by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs, the American Psychiatric Association, and most recently World Health Organization as very effective and efficient at helping people process traumatic events. Here is a list of typical problems that people seek EMDR therapy for: • Childhood or Adult Abuse • Extreme Illness or Grief • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder • Anger • Car Accidents • Sexual Traumas • Assault Trauma • Emotional Pain, Emotional Outbursts • Relationship problems • Phobias (including social ones) • Low Self-Confidence or Self Image • Sadness, Depression & Anxiety • Sleep Problems

EMDR is the acronym for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.

• Intrusive thoughts, flashbacks • Being “on guard” all the time • Being Jumpy or Irritable • Substance abuse • Numbed Emotions

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Fortunately not everyone has experienced extreme neglect or trauma, however, we have all experienced being humiliated, feeling rejected, unimportant, having our emotions hurt one way or another and all of these incidences are what we call “little t-trauma” that “help” reinforce the negative beliefs we have created in our minds usually from childhood experiences.These negative beliefs (negative cognitions as we call them in EMDR) lead to automatic responses every time we get “triggered” and we react in ways that is not authentic to who we are now or how we WANT to respond.

These negative beliefs (negative cognitions as we call them in EMDR) lead to automatic responses every time we get “triggered” and we react in ways that is not authentic to who we are now or how we WANT to respond.

When we do EMDR we use bilateral stimulation, which could be eye- movements from side to side, wearing headphones that produce a tone going from one ear to the other, or holding small paddles in your hands that vibrate slightly and produce bilateral stimulation kinetically.There is a specific 8 step protocol that the EMDR trained therapist guides you through which “untangles” the memory and finally allows your brain to store it properly so that it no longer creates those knee-jerk reactions from you that do not serve you well. If you are feeling “stuck” and unable to move beyond the things that are holding you back, call me at (386) 492-0778 and let us discuss how we can get you where you want to be.

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CONTACT US: 1855 E Dublin Granville Rd STE 204

Columbus, Ohio 43229 northcommunity.com 614.261.3196

FIGHTING FIRE WITH FIRE

“I think this opens up a large world view with regards to this system in the brain.” - Dr. Heath Schmidt

“These results are very provocative and suggest these compounds could be repur- posed for drug addiction.” - Dr. Heath Schmidt,

University of Pennsylvania

D espite years of stigma, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is steadily gaining in popularity among treatment providers. Government groups like the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services are actively campaigning to get more providers to offer MAT as a potentially vital resource for patients. While such groups often promote well-known medications such as methadone and buprenorphine, drug researchers are looking for new medications that could be a lifeline to patients in need. But new medications can cost millions to research and take years to get on the market. That’s why some researchers are taking a closer look, and finding success, with drugs already approved by the FDA. CURBING COCAINE USE Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania say a drug already on the market for diabetes may be able to curb cocaine use. The FDA-approved drug Byetta, used to regulate blood sugar in diabetic patients, is derived from a natural hormone known as GLP-1. The research team looked at how the hormone functioned in rats and found that the same hormone that regulates food intake could be used to suppress cocaine consump- tion. “These results are very provocative and suggest these compounds could be repurposed for drug addiction,” says Dr. Heath Schmidt, one of the lead researchers. “We have seen a reduction in cocaine consumption…but it doesn’t completely abolish it.” Currently, there is no FDA-approved drug for the treatment of cocaine abuse. But because Byetta and a similar drug have already gained federal approval, researchers say that leaves fewer hurdles before they could be used in treatment settings. Although still far from human trials, research- ers say they’re optimistic, especially because their research suggests the hormone is not specific to cocaine and could be used in treatment of other substance abuse disorders. “I think this opens up a large world view with regards to this system in the brain,” Dr. Schmidt says. “There’s really a lot to be explored here and I think it’s really an exciting time to be in the field and exploring the GLP- 1 system.”

ADJUSTING ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION Another team of researchers at the University of Queensland in Australia believe the FDA-approved drug pindolol could be used to stop alcohol abuse. Pindolol is an anti-hypertensive medication used to treat high blood pres- sure. But because of the way it interacts with neurotransmit- ters in the brain, they believe it could also be effective in treating alcohol use disorders (AUDs). To study the drug’s effect, the team used mice and exposed them to an alcohol consump- tion regimen similar to a binge drinking cycle common in humans. For mice also given pindolol, the team found they were able to reduce drinking in the long term (after at least 12 weeks). The team did not see as positive of results in the short term (only four weeks), but they say they’re still excited about its potential uses. “Although further mechanistic investigations are required, this study demonstrates the poten- tial of pindolol as a new treat- ment option for AUDs that can be fast-tracked into human clin- ical studies,” the authors wrote.

CONTACT US: 1855 E Dublin Granville Rd STE 204

Columbus, Ohio 43229 northcommunity.com 614.261.3196

Underserved And Undeterred Overcoming the unique challenges LGBTQ individuals face with addiction A s more and more addiction treatment centers are looking for ways to tailor programs to address the individual needs of clients, one section of the population is being largely overlooked. Advocates say treatment providers need to be more aware of the unique issues and barriers facing the LGBTQ community. Numbers don’t lie

For starters, statistics show substance abuse issues affect LGBTQ individuals at much higher rates than they do the heterosexual population. Some estimates show an addiction rate between 30 and 40 percent, compared to around 10 percent of the population in general. While statistics also show that LGBTQ individuals enter into treatment more readily than the rest of the country, they also face significantly higher animosity once in a program. Advocates say 46 percent of homosexual men and women have had a homophobic therapist, and 34 percent felt their sexuality was seen as irrelevant. While putting sexuality aside to address addiction directly may seem like a good thing at first glance, advocates say recognizing those differences is key to creating a lasting recovery. Need for understanding Understanding a person’s sexuality and gender identity can be as important as understanding their race or ethnic background in that it can uncover potentially hidden sources of stress or

trauma that may contribute to substance use. Just as counselors should consider the social experiences of African-Americans, so too should they consider the unique circumstances faced by members of the LGBTQ community. “In order to not continue to create trauma towards the LGBTQ community, the more culturally competent a person or work/recov- ery environment is, the better,” says Molly Gilbert, director of business development for the PRIDE Institute in Minnesota.

The PRIDE Institute specializes in addiction treatment for the LGBTQ community, and Gilbert says a lack of understanding or awareness by treatment providers can create barriers for people seeking treatment. Even for organizations that seek to become “inclusive” communities, they may not set up a program that accurately addresses LGBTQ concerns, or providers may not realize how they are doing harm to LGBTQ individuals, transgressions known as micro-aggressions. “Micro-aggressions occur daily towards the community and educating heterosexual colleagues, supporters and the rest of society is key in helping to diminish these daily slights and harm,” Gilbert says. Education first To improve treatment outcomes and the experi- ences of LGBTQ people in general, advocates say it’s vital that treatment pro-

viders, physicians, and social service employees educate themselves on

some of these unique challenges and barriers. But they also say LGBTQ people need to educate themselves as well. “Educating the LGBTQ community on the dangers of abuse of alcohol and drugs, and the fact that the community is actually being tar-

geted by institutions such as big tobacco, alcohol companies and drug manufacturers is key,” Gilbert says. With very few

LGBTQ-specific treatment centers across the country, advocates know many

LGBTQ individuals will end up in heteronormative treatment facilities. And while that can present prob-

lems, Gilbert says with the right education and the right system in place, recovery is attainable. “With the right therapy coexisting with a mainstream treatment center, we believe it is doable.”

1855 E Dublin Granville Rd STE 204 Columbus, Ohio 43229 northcommunity.com 614.261.3196

“Everythingwe knowabout older adults and substance abuse probably doesn’t apply to Baby Boomers.” - Dr. Alexis Kuerbis, CUNY - Hunter College

overall numbers present a problem. “We’re grossly understaffed in being able to handle these problems,” says Dr. Dan Blazer, a psychiatrist at Duke University who has studied the issue extensive­ ly. “It’s a problem. I think it’s a problem that’s going to get larger as time goes on and we’re probably already seeing evidence of that.” But there’s also an issue of attitude. Baby Boomers, in general, have a more relaxed view of substance use, and experts fear they may carry those behaviors later into life. “There’s no evidence that they’re going to automati­ cally stop when they hit 65 years old,” Dr. Blazer says. “They’ve used them all their life, they say, ‘Why shouldn’t I use them now?’”

Even though elderly people show substance abuse issues in a much lower percentage than other age groups, the problem is more prevalent than many realize. And it appears it’s only going to get worse. Studies vary, but generally show between 2.2 and 9 percent of older adults have an alcohol use disor­ der, and experts say they’re already seeing a rise in marijuana and opioid abuse issues. With the large population of Baby Boomers aging, substance abuse numbers in the elderly population are expected to continue to rise, presenting serious problems for treat­ ment providers and family members. Researchers say the problem is twofold: part is sheer numbers, the other is attitude. With the number of older adults in the U.S. expected to increase from 40.3 million to 72.1 million between 2010 and 2030,

HIDDEN DANGERS

Experts say the lifestyle of elderly people presents a unique challenge for physicians and treatment providers. For example, because retired people don’t work, substance use doesn’t present a problem at their jobs, a typical red flag for younger people. Experts also say too often doctors fall victim to their own prejudices and don’t ask the right questions that could lead to a diagnosis.

Although success rates in treat­ ment can be better for older adults, the way they’re treated isn’t necessarily the same. Dr. Sacco says older adults respond better to more collaborative treat­ ment programs that give them options. “For so long it was trying to fit older adults into these programs, but now it might be chang­ ing these programs to fit older adults,” Dr. Sacco says.

“People think this person doesn’t look like a substance user,” says Dr. Paul Sacco, an expert on substance abuse in older adults. “Sometimes physical problems associated with alcohol abuse are assumed to have a different cause in older adults.” Substance abuse can be even risk­ ier for older adults as their bodies become less resistant to the stress­ es brought on by substance use.

PLANNING AHEAD

To mitigate the expected problems as much as possi­ ble, experts say we need to train more counselors and physicians on how to best treat older adults, and how to spot potential problems in the first place. “With just a little bit of education about older adults, I think you could make a very big impact,” says Dr. Alexis Kuerbis, a researcher who also works with older adults. “The first step is awareness on what might be

different for an older adult.” But because Baby Boomers use substances more than previous senior groups have, experts say treatment providers may have to find new ways to treat an old problem. “Everything we know about older adults and substance abuse probably doesn’t apply to Baby Boomers,” Dr. Kuerbis says. “All bets are off.”

“We’re grossly understaffed in being able to handle these problems.” - Dr. Dan Blazer, Duke University

CONTACT US: 1855 E Dublin Granville Rd STE 204

Columbus, Ohio 43229 northcommunity.com 614.261.3196

INSERT 6 Learning to Drink

Study finds alcohol changes the brain from the very first drink

“ Drugs of abuse basically hijack the normal learning and memory processes. ” - Dr. Dorit Ron University of California - San Francisco

Preventing escalation

The NIAAA-funded study did not establish a relationship between initial use and addiction, or even problematic drinking. But the hope is that further understanding of how alcohol affects the brain initially could lead to better treatment and prevention efforts down the road. “If we can control that step, we may be able to prevent further escalation,” Dr. Ron says. More research is needed to determine which other components of the brain are affected by initial alcohol exposure. Dr. Ron says she believes the changes that occur during first exposure could be reversed with prolonged abstinence from alcohol. But she said the more a person drinks, the harder it is to reverse those changes as the brain forms stronger connections to drinking.

One drink is all it takes. That’s what one research team found when studying how even the first exposure to alcohol can affect a person’s brain. A team from the University of California - San Francisco exposed mice to alcohol and then studied the synapses (connections) in their brains.The team found that even the first drink produced significant changes in the brain’s biological structure, calling the changes a “learning event.” “This is basically the first step,” says Dr. Dorit Ron, one of the chief researchers. “You are basically placing a memory trace.” Dr. Ron says the entire study was based on the idea that “addiction, and not just alcohol addiction, is thought to be a maladaptive form of learning and memory.” In essence, the study showed that first exposure to alcohol primes the brain for further use and lays the foundation for future “learning.” “Drugs of abuse basically hijack the normal learning and memory processes,” Dr. Ron says. “The behavior becomes habit.”

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Predicting behavior

INSERT 6 A new study also suggests that the earlier a person starts drinking, the stronger those connections may become. Researchers recently set out to identify which substance people use first in their lives and found the majority of people try alcohol before any other substance.The team also looked at how a person’s age when they start drinking affects substance use later in life. Researchers say the earlier someone starts drinking, the more likely they are to use more than one illicit substance, and they’re also more likely to develop an addiction. “It’s a very nice predictor for polysubstance use,” says Dr. Adam Barry, the study’s chief author. “The later you delay, the closer you are to 21, the less likely you are to be alcohol dependent or dependent on other substances.”

“ Alcohol consumption among youth doesn’t occur in a vacuum. ” - Dr. Adam Barry, Texas A&M University

Curbing use Researchers acknowledge there’s a difference between a first sip and a first binge drinking event. But they say age at first use of any kind is still a good predictor of behavior later in life. To combat problematic drinking, Dr. Barry says educators need to address all factors of a child’s life, not just the substance itself. In keeping with new guidelines from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Dr. Barry and his team recommend beginning substance education as early as third grade. “Alcohol consumption among youth doesn’t occur in a vacuum,” Dr. Barry says. “It’s really just trying to find evidence-based strategies that prevent drug use and then applying those in an alcohol setting.”

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614.261.3196 northcommunity.com 1855 E Dublin Granville Rd STE 204 Columbus, Ohio 43229

CONTACT US: 1855 E Dublin Granville Rd STE 204

Columbus, Ohio 43229 northcommunity.com 614.261.3196

Caring for e Community

northcommunity.com 1855 East Dublin Granville Road Columbus, Ohio 43229 (614) 261-3196