Love One Another   JANUARY  9 ,2013

Today's Scripture
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." - John 13:34-35 NIV
Thoughts for Today
The Scriptures offer a multitude of "one another" commands concerning relationships among believers … encourage one another, be devoted to one another, honor one another, live in harmony with one another, accept one another, instruct one another, serve one another, forgive one another … and on and on. "Love one another" is at the core of all of them.
In today's scripture, Jesus tells us to love one another as he has loved us. Of course, Jesus' love is greater than we can even imagine … but he is telling us to follow his example. Jesus loves us unconditionally. He wants us to love others unconditionally—not based on personality or looks or behavior or even our feelings. Unconditionally.
Jesus loved with his actions. He humbled himself, coming to earth as a baby and growing and living among us. Suffering the indignities and torture of the cross. His actions demonstrate the depth of his love in ways words could not begin to explain.
Consider this … 
We tend to view love as a feeling, but sometimes the action must come first. Is there someone in your family … your church … your workplace … who just rubs you the wrong way? You know you should love this person, but it would be so much easier if their attitude would change.
Jesus wants us to love unconditionally. To demonstrate love through action—even when we don't "feel" like it.
Ask him to help you see this person through his eyes. Ask him to help you love this person even if he or she doesn't "deserve" it. And then step out in faith and love through your actions. As we in the family of God demonstrate our love for each other, even as Jesus demonstrated his love for us, others will "know we are his disciples." Our love for one another can help draw them to the perfect love of Jesus.
Prayer
Lord, help me to love others in the way you love me. Help me to love unconditionally. Help me to demonstrate my love with action—even when I don't feel like it. Thank you for loving me unconditionally. Thank you for demonstrating your love in such marvelous ways. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from …
Understanding Depression: Overcoming Despair through Christ by Donald G. Miles, Ed.D. This study deals with depression, a condition common throughout the world, and is suggested for use in support groups and Christian counseling.

• Understanding what depression is and how it affects relationships
• Understanding the relationship between depression and spiritual warfare
• Ways to fight depression with scripture, prayer and mutual support
• Understanding the special prayer needs of depressed persons
• How to pray for healing and what to expect
• Serves as a powerful evangelistic tool by providing a way to minister to people's felt needs and then lead them to Christ

Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
Would you like to have these devotions appear daily on your church or ministry website? Learn More
 

 

PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.

Commentary: Learning As We Go: Critical Assessment of Addiction Research and Practice

By Phyllis A. Gardner, PhD | January 8, 2013 | Leave a comment | Filed in Addiction, Recovery & Treatment

A recent Join Together article, entitled “Half of Addiction Counselors Say It’s OK for Some Patients to Drink Occasionally,” drew attention to the fact that some substance abuse counselors believe moderate drinking is an option for individuals with substance use disorders. As a researcher and an advocate in our field, I reacted with mixed feelings to this news.

While I applaud new research by anyone into any area of our profession, I am also aware that not all research is created equal. Does a survey of professionals’ opinions reflect research or the content of counselor education for our professionals? Both? Neither? An approach that allows an individual to continue to drink is a risk about which many of us remain most skeptical.

For decades the belief in the United States has been that abstinence is the only real solution for such individuals. This was largely due to the influence of Alcoholics Anonymous and similar philosophies. Over the years, our profession has grown and the attention to evidence-based practice has come into clear focus. That said, we have tried to consider what seems to work in other parts of the world as well.

I have clear memories of the debate over the inclusion in our exams of harm-reduction strategies and Therapeutic Community model treatment programs. In the end, subject matter experts agreed that IC&RC exams should reflect all treatment modalities, not just our personal preferences, so the exams were infused with a broader range of treatment strategies and were weighted according to our research into what was being used the most and under what circumstances.

One place we looked for guidance was the United Kingdom, whose approach was heavily weighted toward harm reduction, seeing abstinence as a last resort. So what is harm reduction? It includes everything from “controlled” drinking to methadone maintenance programs and needle exchanges. I can make a case both for and against each of these under the right circumstances and so can most readers here, I suspect.

Interestingly, in the UK, there is currently a backlash building against methadone – with some professionals referring to it as “harm maintenance” programs. It seems that abstinence is starting to catch on as they debate the real definition of recovery and consider the vast numbers of clients who live for decades on methadone and claim “recovery.” Proponents of abstinence-based treatment in the UK commonly refer to “real” or “whole” or “true” recovery.

Another gray area concerns medication-assisted treatment. Again, there is a case to be made in either direction. If medication is involved in detox, the need is clear. If medication is involved in a transition period, it can be helpful, as well. But substituting medication for a holistic approach to the individual –that includes counseling and education– is a one-size-fits-all approach that opens the door to the exact same criticism some have directed at total abstinence for all.

In the case of medication-assisted treatment, we, as professionals, must consider the source of our education about this strategy. Many of the research and educational efforts around “MAT” are funded by the pharmaceutical companies that make the drugs. It makes sense that they want us to know about what they have developed. On the other hand, “research evaluation 101” tells us to always look at who funds a study and “follow the money” before we give too much weight to the research conclusions.

So my goal is to sound a note of caution against pushing too hard, too quickly for any new approach to treating a very fragile client population. We study. We learn. We jump the gun. Let’s be mindful of that last one.

Phyllis Abel Gardner, PhD
President of IC&RC

Study Shows Racial Disparities in Completion of Substance Abuse Treatment

By Join Together Staff | January 8, 2013 | 1 Comment | Filed in Alcohol, Drugs, Ethnicity, Healthcare & Treatment

Black and Hispanic patients who enter publicly funded alcohol and drug treatment programs are less likely to complete treatment, compared with white patients, a new study finds. The disparities are likely related to greater unemployment rates and housing instability for black and Hispanic patients, according to the researchers.

The study found about half of all black and Hispanic patients who entered publicly funded alcohol treatment programs do not complete treatment, compared with 62 percent of white patients. Similar disparities were found for drug treatment programs, ScienceDaily reports. The researchers analyzed data from more than one million discharges from substance abuse treatment programs.

The researchers write in Health Affairs that funding for integrated services and increased Medicaid coverage under the Affordable Care Act could help improve minorities’ access to treatment programs.

“Our findings show troubling racial disparities in the completion of alcohol and drug abuse programs, and they point specifically to socioeconomic barriers that make it difficult for minority groups to access and sustain treatment,” researcher Brendan Saloner, PhD, of the University of Pennsylvania, said in a news release. “For example, in both alcohol and drug treatment groups, black and Hispanic patients were more likely than white patients to be homeless. But, disparities among the groups were found to be lower in residential treatment settings, indicating that access to residential treatment could be particularly valuable for these patients.”

Living Free Every Day®   January 8 2013

Think Positive!
Today's Scripture
"Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse." Philippians 4:8 MSG
Thoughts for Today
Negative thinking can distract us from remembering God's goodness and from building an intimate relationship with him.
We live in a culture of complaining. We look for ways to get things off our chests. Talk shows are flooded with callers eager to share their displeasure about something. Complaining may seem harmless, sometimes even therapeutic. However, it causes impatience, which reinforces negative attitudes and can lead to a self-focused life.
We all go through difficult times, but God doesn't want us to focus on the negative. He knows that chronic complaining will never help us and will ultimately harm us. Instead, God calls us to rejoice! To focus our minds on the good, the positive, the praiseworthy. To give thanks in all circumstances and to focus on his love.
Consider this …
Joseph never complained when he was betrayed by his brothers, put into slavery and unjustly imprisoned. The apostle Paul maintained a good attitude when he was beaten and imprisoned. Both men had an intimate relationship with God and wanted more than anything to please him.
The next time you start to complain … take a deep breath and refocus on Jesus.
Prayer
Father, sometimes I get sidetracked and focus on the worst—in me, in others and in my circumstances. Please forgive me and help me to refocus on the best—in me, in others, in my circumstances. And most of all, help me to focus on your love and grace and on Jesus, my Savior. In his name …
A Passionate Pursuit of God: Drawing Nearer to Him by Dr. Mike Chapman. This study teaches participant how to move into God's inner circle, how to listen for the voice of God, how to enjoy the freedom of worship, and how to embrace the mission of worship. This 45-minute format will accommodate groups with limited meeting times. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
To receive these weekday devotions, subscribe here 
Would you like to have these devotions appear daily on your church or ministry website? Learn More 

 

 

PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.

New Mexico Jail Announces It Will Stop Treating Inmates With Methadone

By Join Together Staff | January 7, 2013 | 1 Comment | Filed in Community Related, Drugs, Government & Treatment

New Mexico’s largest jail will no longer use methadone to treat inmates who are addicted to drugs, The New York Times reports. The jail’s warden cited cost concerns. He also questioned the program’s effectiveness.

The Metropolitan Detention Center in Albuquerque has been one of the small number of jails and prisons nationwide to administer methadone to inmates with drug addictions, according to the article. Hundreds of participants have gone through the New Mexico treatment program.

The program has been costing the jail about $10,000 a month, according to Ramon Rustin, the jail’s warden. He told the newspaper he did not believe the program truly worked. He said there is little evidence it reduces inmates’ return to the corrections system once they are released.

“My concern is that the courts and other authorities think that jail has become a treatment program, that it has become the community provider,” he said. “But jail is not the answer. Methadone programs belong in the community, not here.”

Advocates for the methadone program say cutting off inmates from methadone is like taking insulin from a diabetic.

In December, Rustin was ordered to extend the program for two months until its results could be further studied.

Living Free Every Day®

Take Time to Listen
Today's Scripture
"Joshua said to the Israelites, "Come here and listen to the words of the LORD your God." Joshua 3:9 NLT
Thoughts for Today
Communication is a vital key to every relationship. And so it is with our relationship with Christ. Intimacy with God is not possible without communication.
When we pray, we talk to God. When we listen, God can talk to us. Unfortunately, most of us spend all our prayer time talking to him, never taking time to listen.
God speaks to us in various ways: Through the teaching of the Bible. Through Scripture "explosions." (This is when a verse literally jumps off the page and speaks to us.) He speaks through a "still, small voice" in our hearts and minds. And sometimes he speaks though other people or through circumstances—in these cases, the message will usually be a confirmation of something he has already told us.
Consider this …
How do we know when we are hearing from God, not the enemy or even our own imagination? First, God comes openly with peace, never causing fear, anxiety or guilt. Second, his message will always line up with Scripture and will build faith. And third, his message will result in more love and more power in our lives—not in confusion.
God loves you and wants to communicate with you. Learn to listen!
Prayer
Lord, teach me to hear your voice. Help me to talk less and listen more when I pray. Help me to hear clearly from you as I read the Bible. And throughout each day, help me to be more open to hearing you speak to me no matter what else I'm doing or where I am. Teach me to listen. In Jesus' name …
A Passionate Pursuit of God: Drawing Nearer to Him by Dr. Mike Chapman. This study teaches participant how to move into God's inner circle, how to listen for the voice of God, how to enjoy the freedom of worship, and how to embrace the mission of worship. This 45-minute format will accommodate groups with limited meeting times. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
To receive these weekday devotions, subscribe here
Would you like to have these devotions appear daily on your church or ministry website? Learn More 

 

 

PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.

2012 Winter Wish Gala Raises Over $2 Million

By Cassie Goldberg | December 19, 2012 | 0 Comments | Filed in Our Blog

We ushered our 10^th annual gala into a new decade by unveiling a new name – The Winter Wish Gala – and moving the event to Gotham Hall in New York City. In attendance at the gala, which allowed us to show gratitude to those who support our important work and help us reach families in need, were more than 500 distinguished guests and friends, and over $2 million was raised for our cause.

The Winter Wish Gala was hosted by Maria Bartiromo of CNBC. Gala honorees included  JPMorgan Chase & Co. Vice Chariman James B. Lee, Jr.; National Basketball Association, represented by Commissioner David Stern and Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver; and Sir Martin Sorrell, Chief Executive of WPP.

A special tribute was awarded to MusiCares, and the winners of the MLB Commissioner’s Play Healthy Awards were recognized by CJ Wilson, All-Star pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

Guns and Drugs: Different Scourges, Same Solution? | The Fix

Guns and Drugs: Different Scourges, Same Solution? | The Fix

National Addiction Awareness Memorial and Support Group: Affilated blog

National Addiction Awareness Memorial and Support Group: Affilated blog: I am also affiliated with my original blog, which was started in 1993., so please feel free to join and check that one out as we'll htt...

Rational Recovery from alcoholism addiction zero-tolerance ultimatum in the family

Rational Recovery from alcoholism addiction zero-tolerance ultimatum in the family

A LITTLE BIT OF EVERYTHING

Aids Hotline	800-232-4636	www.aids.org
Adolescent Programs	800-788-2800	www.health.org
Alanon & Alateen	888-425-2666	www.al-anon-alateen.org
Alcoholics Anonymous	212-647-1680	www.aa.org
ACOA	310-534-1815	www.adultchildren.org
American Cancer Society	800-227-2345	www.cancer.org
Anti-Drug Campaign	800-729-6686	www.theantidrug.com
Child Abuse	800-422-4453	www.childhelpusa.org
Chronic Pain	800-533-3231	www.theacpa.org
Cocaine Anonymous	800-347-8998	www.ca.org
CODA	602-277-7991	www.codependents.org
Credit Counseling	800-388-2227	www.dca.org
D.A.R.E.	800-223-3273	www.dare.com
Debtors Anonymous	781-453-2743	www.debtorsanonymous.org
Depression & Bipolar Support	800-826-3632	www.ndmda.org
Domestic Violence Hotline	800-799-7233	www.ndvh.org
Families Anonymous	800-736-9805	www.familiesanonymous.org
Gambling Addiction	800-522-4700	www.ncpgambling.org
Gamblers Anonymous	213-386-8789	www.gamblersanonymous.org
Hepatitis Hotline	800-223-0179	www.hepcassoc.org
Intervention Referrals	888-421-4321
JCAHO	630-792-5000	www.jcaho.org
Marijuana Anonymous	800-766-6779	www.marijuana-anonymous.org
Mothers Against Drunk Driving	800-438-6233	www.madd.org
Mental Health Hotline	800-789-2647	www.mentalhealth.org
Narcotics Anonymous	818-773-9999	www.na.org
Naranon	800-477-6291	www.nar-anon.org
National Council on Alcoholism	800-622-2255	www.ncadd.org
National Drug & Alcohol Information	800-729-6686	www.drugabuse.gov
Nicotine Anonymous	415-750-0328	www.nicotine-anonymous.org
Overeaters Anonymous	505-891-2664	www.oa.org
Parents Anonymous	909-621-6184	www.parentsanonymous.org
Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network	800-656-4673	www.rainn.org
Rational Recovery	530-621-2667	www.rational.org
Recovery Now TV	800-281-4731	www.recoverynowtv.com
Runaways	800-621-4000	www.nrscrisisline.org
Sex Addicts Anonymous	800-477-8191	www.saa-recovery.org
S-Anon (Sex Addicts Family Members)	615-833-3152	www.sanon.org
Sober Houses	866-762-3747	www.sober.com
Suicide Hotline	800-273-8255	www.suicidehotlines.org
STD Hotline	800-342-2437	www.cdc.gov
Survivors of Incest	410-282-3400	www.rainn.org
Teen Helpline	800-852-8336	www.teenlineonline.org
Treatment Locator	800-662-4357	www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov
We Tip	800-782-7463	www.wetip.com
Workaholics Anonymous	510-273-9253	www.workaholics-anonymous.org

Recovery Now Episode 4

Recovery Now Episode 8

Company Hopes to Sell Marijuana in Vending Machines in Colorado, Washington

By Join Together Staff | January 4, 2013 | 1 Comment | Filed in Community Related, Drugs, Legislation & Marketing And Media

A California-based company hopes to sell marijuana in vending machines in Colorado and Washington, which have legalized recreational use of the drug, NBC News reports.

Marijuana is already sold through vending machines in some states where medical marijuana is legal. The company, Medbox, says it wants to adapt the machines to comply with the new recreational marijuana laws in Colorado and Washington.

People using the machines to obtain medical marijuana use a fingerprint scan to verify their identity, which is linked to a prescription on file.

“One day we envision these machines to be accessed, when it’s allowed, 24 hours a day,” Vincent Mehdizadeh, who founded a subsidiary of Medbox that makes vending machines, told NBC News. “One day in the future that may happen, but for now these machines sit behind the counter as an inventory control and compliance tool.”

Growing, possessing and selling marijuana remains illegal under federal law.

Living Free Every Day®

Take Time to Listen

Today's Scripture

"Joshua said to the Israelites, "Come here and listen to the words of the LORD your God." Joshua 3:9 NLT

Thoughts for Today

Communication is a vital key to every relationship. And so it is with our relationship with Christ. Intimacy with God is not possible without communication.

When we pray, we talk to God. When we listen, God can talk to us. Unfortunately, most of us spend all our prayer time talking to him, never taking time to listen.

God speaks to us in various ways: Through the teaching of the Bible. Through Scripture "explosions." (This is when a verse literally jumps off the page and speaks to us.) He speaks through a "still, small voice" in our hearts and minds. And sometimes he speaks though other people or through circumstances—in these cases, the message will usually be a confirmation of something he has already told us.

Consider this …

How do we know when we are hearing from God, not the enemy or even our own imagination? First, God comes openly with peace, never causing fear, anxiety or guilt. Second, his message will always line up with Scripture and will build faith. And third, his message will result in more love and more power in our lives—not in confusion.

God loves you and wants to communicate with you. Learn to listen!

Prayer

Lord, teach me to hear your voice. Help me to talk less and listen more when I pray. Help me to hear clearly from you as I read the Bible. And throughout each day, help me to be more open to hearing you speak to me no matter what else I'm doing or where I am. Teach me to listen. In Jesus' name …

A Passionate Pursuit of God: Drawing Nearer to Him by Dr. Mike Chapman. This study teaches participant how to move into God's inner circle, how to listen for the voice of God, how to enjoy the freedom of worship, and how to embrace the mission of worship. This 45-minute format will accommodate groups with limited meeting times. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.

To receive these weekday devotions, subscribe here

Would you like to have these devotions appear daily on your church or ministry website? Learn More

 

PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.

Heroin Use in Florida Grows as Opioids Become More Difficult to Abuse

By Join Together Staff | January 3, 2013 | Leave a comment | Filed in Community Related, Drugs & Prescription Drugs

As opioids become more difficult and expensive to abuse, heroin use is on the rise in Florida, according to law enforcement officials. A similar trend has been reported around the country.

The Miami Herald reports an analysis of drug-related deaths in 2011 shows heroin is one of the state’s most harmful drugs. Heroin-related deaths increased by 18.8 percent, to 62 deaths, compared with the previous year. The number of deaths from heroin use is down from a high of 270 in 2001, the newspaper notes.

The recent increase is worrying to local drug rehabilitation experts. They report seeing more patients who have switched from oxycodone or other prescription drugs to heroin in the last year.

“When I ask my patients, they say, ‘Yeah, I couldn’t get oxycodone, and now I’m using heroin, four or five bags,’” Dr. Patricia Junquera of Jackson Memorial Hospital’s detox unit told the newspaper. “I think more people are switching to heroin.’’

A study published in July 2012 found OxyContin abuse has decreased now that the painkiller has been reformulated to make it more difficult to misuse. Many people who abused the drug have switched to heroin, the researchers reported in the New England Journal of Medicine. In 2010, the company that makes OxyContin introduced a new version of the drug that is more difficult to inhale or inject.

Florida has taken a number of measures in the past several years designed to reduce prescription drug abuse. In June 2011, Florida Governor Rick Scott signed into law a bill designed to cut down on prescription drug abuse by controlling “pill mills” in the state. The law authorized the creation of a prescription-drug monitoring database to reduce doctor-shopping by people looking to collect multiple painkiller prescriptions. The legislation also imposed new penalties for physicians who overprescribe medication and imposes stricter rules for operating pharmacies.

CADCA National Leadership Forum to be Held February 4-7

By Join Together Staff | January 3, 2013 | Leave a comment | Filed in Community Related, Drugs & Prevention

Registration is open for Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA)’s 23rd annual National Leadership Forum, to be held February 4-7 in National Harbor, Maryland. The CADCA Forum is the nation’s largest training conference for community prevention and treatment professionals and researchers.

The meeting’s theme is “Science, Strategies & Solutions.” More than 2,700 participants are expected to attend, including leaders of community anti-drug coalitions, government leaders, youth, addiction treatment professionals, researchers, law enforcement professionals, educators and faith-based leaders.

Workshops will help participants develop comprehensive evidence-based strategies to create community-level change. Presenters will include Gil Kerlikowske, Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy; Pamela Hyde, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Administrator; Michele Leonhart, Drug Enforcement Administration Administrator; and California Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack. For more information, visit CADCA’s Forum website.

Navy Unveils Video Demonstrating Worrisome Effects of Bath Salts

By Join Together Staff | January 3, 2013 | Leave a comment | Filed in Drugs, Military & Prevention

The U.S. Navy has released a video that demonstrates the disturbing effects of bath salts, ABC News reports. The video is the latest weapon in the Navy’s effort to combat synthetic drug use.

The video shows a sailor who snorts bath salts. Shortly afterwards he vomits, then starts having hallucinations. His girlfriend appears demonic to him, and he assaults her. He collapses and wakes up in restraints as he is brought to the hospital, clearly in distress.

“When people are using bath salts, they’re not their normal selves,” Lt. George Loeffler, a Psychiatry Resident at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego, tells viewers. “They’re angrier. They’re erratic. They’re violent and they’re unpredictable…People will start seeing things that aren’t there, believing things that aren’t true.”

Loeffler adds the effects of paranoia brought on by bath salts can last days or weeks after the drugs have left the body.

Synthetic drugs such as bath salts and synthetic marijuana fall under the Navy’s Zero Tolerance policy. Sailors found to be using, possessing, distributing or who observe an abuse and do not report the incident can be charged with violating the Navy’s policies.

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http://myemail.constantcontact.com/RIR--Hurricane-Relief-Benefit-Concert--Final-Lineup-and-Update.html?soid=1102906894456&aid=Y5UATecfSQo

Ethics CEs through NAADAC Over 19 CEs of Ethics Education Ethics and equity and the principles of justice do not change with the calendar.  - D. H. Lawrence   Brush up on your Ethics with continuing education through NAADAC.  Gain CE credit from your home, prepare for an upcoming certification/licensure exam and maintain your current state and national credentials. Browse all CEs in Ethics Become a member of NAADAC to earn free CE credit for all NAADAC webinars & online courses (over 85 CEs): www.naadac.org/join Free On Demand Ethics Webinars Watch at your convenience 24/7 Ethics Violations: A Guide to Reporting and Managing the Process Cultural Considerations for the Ethically Aware Clinician Understanding NAADAC's Code of Ethics Clinical Supervision 201: Ethical Dilemmas and Other Challenges Working with NAADAC to Express Your Professional Identify CE credit available by passing online CE quiz: Free for NAADAC members; $15-25 for non-members Ethics and Professional Issues in Addiction Counseling Independent Study Course   Course includes a spiral-bound study manual and 30 written examination questions.  Earn 12 CEs! Click here for a sneak peak inside! Can be used as a stand-alone resource for those seeking additional guidance in ethics or to help prepare for a state or national examination.   On sale now for 25% off! $56.25 for members $82.50 for non-members NAADAC Master Calendar Find NAADAC sponsored conferences, public policy events, regional meetings, and ethics workshops in your area with the NAADAC Master Calendar.

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Drug Companies Want Ban on Generic Painkillers, Arguing Safety is at Stake

By Join Together Staff | January 2, 2013 | Leave a comment | Filed in Advocacy, Government, Legislation & Prescription Drugs

Drug companies that manufacture the painkillers OxyContin and Opana are trying to block generic drug makers’ efforts to produce cheaper versions of the drugs. They argue these newer drugs will not have the tamper-resistant designs used in making the brand-name pills, according to The New York Times.

Generic versions of the two painkillers are expected to be significantly less expensive than the brand-name drugs.

Purdue Pharma, which makes OxyContin, and Endo Pharmaceuticals, which manufactures Opana, produce versions of the drugs that are more resistant to melting or crushing, which makes them more difficult to abuse. The companies say generic versions of the drugs without these safety features will increase demand for the drugs and lead to a rise in painkiller abuse.

Both companies support state and federal legislation that would require many opioids to be tamper-resistant, the article notes. The manufacturers are also asking the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to differentiate between drugs with tamper-resistant features and those without such qualities.

A bill introduced in the U.S. House this summer would require most painkillers to have safeguards to prevent abuse. Under the provisions of the bill, most prescription painkillers would have some form of abuse deterrence, such as being more difficult to crush or inject. If pain medications did not adopt the safety features outlined in the bill, they would be removed from the FDA’s approved list of generic drugs.

In December, a federal judge threw out a lawsuit by Endo that aimed to block the FDA from allowing generic versions of Opana. The newspaper quotes court papers filed in response to Endo’s lawsuit, in which the FDA called the company’s action a “thinly veiled attempt to maintain its market share and block generic competition.”

CALENDAR LISTING:

“Expanding Your Recovery Toolkit” Workshop Jan. 15 in Doylestown

Free monthly workshop series for individuals and families with a current or pastdrug/alcohol addiction issue. Next session meets Tues., Jan. 15, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at The Council of Southeast Pennsylvania, Inc., 252 W. Swamp Rd., Unit 12, Doylestown, Pa. Topics include “feeding the drug monster” and “how I finally stopped using”. Refreshments. To register, call 215-345-6644 or email JSchwartz@councilsepa.org.

Tainted Cough Syrup Kills Scores of Addicts

Tainted cough syrup can kill. Photo     SOURCE THE FIX

More than 40 people have died in the city of Gujranwala in eastern Pakistan after consuming a locally manufactured cough syrup. Most of the victims were addicts who were using it for a cheap high. Two dozen people were pronounced dead at the weekend, bringing the total count up to 41. And some of another 46 people still being treated at local hospitals after becoming violently ill also remain in critical condition. The cough syrup in question, known as "Tyno," has been sent for lab testing to find out what made it was so deadly. Last month, 23 addicts died in the nearby city of Lahore after drinking a cough syrup to get high; the owners of three drug stores were arrested after officials determined that their cough syrup had been adulterated, causing it to become extremely toxic.

Addiction News | Drug Abuse & Alcohol – The Fix

Addiction News | Drug Abuse & Alcohol – The Fix

Date: 1/02/2013

Subject: 2013 at C4K!!!

To All of Our Supporters:

As we begin a new year it is only natural to look back and evaluate the passed year. Here at Computers for Kids of America we are extremely fortunate to look back and see a year filled with successful endeavors in helping increase the access to vital technology for those in need. We have been able to help underprivileged children learn how to use computer technology, we have been able to help soon to be released prisoners learn new skills to help them transition into their new lives, and we have been able to help countless schools replace equipment that was damaged by Super Storm Sandy. We have been able to help these people and these organizations because of the time, effort, and generosity of all of you; our contributing partners, tireless volunteers, and continuing supporters.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your support and to remind everyone that there is still a lot of "good" in this world and it manifests itself through people and organizations like you and yours who are committed to helping improve the human experience for those in need. 2013 is already filled with big commitments to building charter schools, community centers and our work with Super Storm Sandy renewal. If you are retiring old equipment or need to free up space where it is stored in your business, school or hospital let us know and we will be right out to pick it up.

We trust that you enjoyed your holidays and have a happy, healthy, and safe New Year and please feel free to reach out to me if there is anyway we can help you or those around you this winter.

Thank You,

Michael Welsh

Living Free Every Day®

  Distractions Abound

Today's Scripture

"Come near to God and he will come near to you." James 4:8 NIV

Thoughts for Today

Are you in a tug of war between your own agenda and God's plan for you? This week we will be looking at some ways to escape life's distractions and grow closer to God.

Life can slowly separate us from intimacy with God. Today there seems to be more than ever to distract us from the pursuit of a close personal relationship with him. We often find ourselves torn between our agenda and his desires for us. Guarding the inner fire—the passion for Christ—is a great challenge of the twenty-first century.

Consider this …

Think about it. What are some things in your life that prevent you from drawing closer to God? All-consuming distractions like being overloaded with e-mails, cell phones and hours on the freeway? Pleasing bosses, shuttling kids, trying out new gadgets? Hours on the golf course or in front of the TV? Perhaps even serving in the church? There is nothing wrong with any of these activities—unless we allow them to distract us from our personal relationship with God.

If you truly want to do things God's way and have a closer relationship with him, take an honest look at your priorities. Admit to God that you have allowed busyness or other distractions to take your eyes off him. Ask for his forgiveness and his help in making him first in your life.

Prayer

Father, I know I sometimes let the busyness of the day interfere with my relationship with you. Sometimes I find time for everything else except my quiet time with you. Sometimes I get so focused on other things throughout the day that I forget you are right there with me. Please forgive me. Please help me make you first in my life. In Jesus' name …

A Passionate Pursuit of God: Drawing Nearer to Himby Dr. Mike Chapman. This study teaches participant how to move into God's inner circle, how to listen for the voice of God, how to enjoy the freedom of worship, and how to embrace the mission of worship. This 45-minute format will accommodate groups with limited meeting times. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.

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