admin, Author at Sahyog Clinic

Drug abuse in India: most common and dangerous drugs

By admin June 21, 2022

Drug abuse in India has raised serious concerns among the society, legal and medical authorities in India. Many people in India get into drug abuse due to social, psychological and other reasons, and they also suffer from its consequences. Some of the most common abused drugs are as follows: Alprazolam, Clonazepam, Diazepam, Ethyl morphine, Fentanyl, Hydrocodone, Hydroxyzine (Ataraxy), Ketamine (ketlar), Ketamine Hydrochloride, Morphine Sulphate, Opium, and Oxycodone Hydrochloride etc. Most commonly abused drugs in India Despite having a developed legal framework for dealing with drug addiction, drug abuse remains one of India’s biggest health problems. According to sources from UNODC, a part of UN, there are more than 10 million addicts in India and over 6 million drug users. Most of these are young people between 15-35 years old; also, almost 1/3rd of total hospital admissions are due to drug use. So, What Are The Most Commonly Abused Drugs In India? Here is a list of top 4 drugs that have been found commonly abused by Indians. 1) Cannabis (Weed, Marijuana): It is an illicit drug obtained from marijuana plant that contains THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol). It has mild psychedelic effects when consumed which can make you feel relaxed or ‘high’ but it also has negative effects on your brain as well as lungs. Its consumption has been reported to cause addiction. In addition to that, prolonged use of cannabis can cause memory loss and may lead to psychosis. The psychoactive chemical in weed is called delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC. It acts on specific receptors in your brain known as cannabinoid receptors. When these receptors are activated by THC, they send a signal to other nerve cells, causing them to release dopamine into your system. This creates a sensation of pleasure, which motivates people to consume more of these substances. Hence, THC causes feeling of relaxation and euphoria. There are different strains of cannabis with varying levels of potency depending on how much THC they contain. Some strains have high concentrations of CBD (cannabidiol), which is another active ingredient in the weed that produces calming effects without making you feel high. 2) Amphetamine-type stimulants: These include amphetamines, methamphetamines, and methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). They all act on neurotransmitters in your brain like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. These chemicals play a key role in regulating moods, hunger, sleep, and emotions. Drugs like amphetamine increase their level leading to excessive stimulation of nerve cells resulting in increased energy levels and alertness. Later on, followed by depression due to overstimulation of these systems. Many studies show a link between regular amphetamine use and changes in personality such as aggression, hostility, and irritability. 3) Sedatives: Sedatives refer to any substance that slows down body functions. Commonly abused sedatives include barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and alcohol. People often misuse sedatives for recreational purposes for their ability to induce sleepiness or reduce anxiety, along with being used medically for anxiety disorders such as panic attacks, insomnia etc. These drugs slow down activity of nerves throughout your body which results in lowering heart rate, breathing rate etc leading to drowsiness along with feeling relaxed and calmness. Regular usage of sedatives can result in tolerance building up, thereby requiring higher doses for achieving the same effect, which may lead to harmful consequences of overdose deaths if taken excessively. 4) Narcotics/Opioids: Narcotic refers to a group of drugs that directly affect your central nervous system and alters normal functioning of your brain. Opioids such as heroin, opium, morphine, and codeine are commonly misused for recreational purposes, apart from treatment for severe pain. Regular and long-term usage of opioids leads to dependence on them, so users tend to experience withdrawal symptoms upon stopping its usage. Withdrawal symptoms after halting usage includes constipation, diarrhoea, muscle cramps and spasms which persist for a few days before fading away completely. Heroin (Diamorphine) Heroin is a synthetic opioid with an extremely high risk of addiction. It’s rapidly absorbed into your bloodstream when you inject, snort or smoke it. The drug can cause drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and constipation as well as respiratory problems. It’s not possible to use heroin safely due to its potency, addictiveness, and potential for overdose. Heroin, which is a common name behind drug abuse, is also responsible for many deaths among users because it suppresses breathing. As a result, if you take too much, you could stop breathing and die. Mixing heroin with other depressants such as alcohol or benzodiazepines increases these risks even further. You should never mix heroin with other depressants unless under medical supervision. Methamphetamine (Ya ba) Methamphetamine, a.k.a. speed or ya ba, is a type of synthetic stimulant that increases alertness, energy and confidence, sometimes for several days at a time. It causes an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, as well as an irregular heartbeat, which can lead to cardiac arrest—hence its nickname: Killer Drug. The drug has been linked to psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia. In India, it’s primarily produced in small labs along the border with Myanmar. While meth used to be prevalent among truck drivers and construction workers, it’s now commonly found among young people from middle-class families. (Source: TIME) 2C-B: A psychedelic hallucinogen first synthesized by Alexander Shulgin (the godfather of Ecstasy), 2C-B was popularized by psychologist Leo Zeff who used it during therapy sessions until his death in 2009. Amphetamine (Captagon) Captagon is a widely abused amphetamine compound. Captagon use is reported to be especially high among young men, particularly those engaged in military or paramilitary operations. It is known as the drug of choice of ISIS fighters. Like other amphetamines, Captagon induces a feeling of euphoria; however, it also leads to extreme paranoia and aggression. The drug can also cause hallucinations similar to what’s seen with schizophrenia. Captagon has been linked to acts of extreme violence and suicide. In addition, users report that taking Captagon increases their endurance for long periods of time without food or water. This effect makes it attractive for soldiers who may need to go days without food or

6 most common excuses addicts give to avoid treatment

By admin June 18, 2022

They Would Rather Not Be Embarrassed One of the common reasons for excuses given by addicts to avoid treatment is when they feel embarrassed. There’s an immense fear of public shaming among addicts, who don’t want anyone—family, friends, or colleagues—to know about their addiction. In numerous instances, they are dealing with some kind of trauma that may have been caused by others judging them. The good news is that you can overcome your embarrassment by realizing that your addiction is not a reflection on you as a person; it’s a reflection on what you were going through at the time. Once you realize there is nothing to be embarrassed about, it will be easier for you to seek help. You’ll also need to recognize that seeking help doesn’t mean you’re weak; in fact, it takes strength to ask for assistance when you need it. You should also think about creating a plan for telling loved ones and family members once you decide to get clean. A professional counsellor can work with you on how best to go about telling those close to you, so they can provide support while respecting your privacy at the same time. They Don’t Think They Are Addicted Most people believe that only certain types of people become addicted. In reality, addiction knows no boundaries when it comes to gender, age, race or social status. Anyone can become an addict; everyone is at risk. You must reach out for help if you think your behavior has taken on a dangerous tone. There is no shame in seeking treatment. Seeking professional help will not just improve your life —it will keep you alive. One of many reasons why addicts would give excuses to avoid treatment is because they don’t think they have a problem. If you are someone who can take or leave your addiction, that’s fine. But, if you find yourself constantly fantasizing about it or unable to resist it even though it’s causing concerns in your life, you may want to consider changing your behaviours before they get out of control. The sooner you admit there’s a concern, the sooner you can begin taking steps toward recovery. A good first step is speaking with a friend or family member about what you’re going through. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with another person makes it easier to open up without feeling ashamed or embarrassed. Chances are, that person will be more than willing to listen and offer support as long as they know what’s going on. They Are Afraid of What Happens in Treatment If a person is afraid of what will happen if they enter treatment, it is important for them to understand that addiction recovery programs are not like jails or prisons. They offer encouragement and support, but there’s no forced confinement. They Need Their Loved Ones: If an addict’s loved ones are all they have in their lives, then they may need new loved ones. The best way to get new friends is by going into a recovery program because everyone in their group will be fighting against drugs and alcohol abuse. There Is No Reason to Stop Using Drugs and Alcohol: When people feel they don’t have any reason to stop using drugs and alcohol, it can be hard for them to see past their pain. However, when people think about why others would want them sober, such as family members who care about them or friends who don’t want them to destroy themselves, these thoughts can help them inspire to change and break off giving excuses that addicts commonly do. They Don’t Believe in Therapy All too often, addicts give excuses and avoid getting help because they don’t believe in therapy or don’t want to spend money on it. If you have a problem and aren’t willing to go see a therapist, then you are exactly right — you don’t have a problem. An addiction is a disease of mind, body, and spirit. In order for someone to help treat your addiction, they need to access all three aspects of your life. Most people who get sober through 12-step programs will tell you that going to meetings was just as important as going to therapy. The two work hand-in-hand. Many therapists also offer sliding scale rates so that more people can afford their services. It’s not about what you think; it’s about what works best for you, and if professional help can get you there faster than self-help alone, then why wouldn’t you take advantage of that? If you require help to find a therapist, contact your insurance company or check out Psychology Today’s listings. If paying out of pocket isn’t an option, ask your doctor if he or she has any recommendations based on any previous patients they may have had. And finally, even though many people do find recovery by working with sponsors and members at 12-step meetings (and I am one of those people), I do understand that some people prefer to work with professionals instead. They Have Other Priorities Excuses, like I have too much going on right now, may seem reasonable, but in reality, there are plenty of ways addicts can get help that won’t add more time to their plate. It’s true that finding time for addiction recovery can be difficult, but according to Alan Marlatt, Ph.D., director of the Addictive Behaviours Research Center at the University of Washington in Seattle, it’s all about managing expectations. If you want to do something badly enough, you will find a way to do it—and make time for it, he says. The trick is figuring out what is significant in life and what isn’t so necessary. If getting sober is important enough, people will figure out how to work it into their lives. If you don’t prioritize it, you won’t do it, Marlatt says. And if you don’t start doing it today, tomorrow will be another day, and then another day. And before long, a year has gone

Environmental Supports for Recovery

By admin June 16, 2022

When an individual struggles with addiction, it can feel like they are fighting an uphill battle alone. Addiction can take over many aspects of your life, including relationships, work and school performance, health, and more. Thankfully, there are many ways that can give you enough supports for recovery from the people and places in your environment. This means that you don’t have to fight addiction alone; there are numerous friends and loved ones who will help you overcome this struggle if you let them. The following list identifies some of the best ways in which your environment can support your recovery from addiction. Recovery doesn’t only happen in your home or at work, but also where you spend your time when you aren’t working or sleeping. By ensuring that your environment supports for recovery, you can take advantage of all the opportunities’ life has to offer, without having to worry about relapsing or falling back into old habits that kept you from living a satisfying life before your recovery began. Learn how to make the most of your environment so that it helps you recover and grow into the person you want to be, rather than holding you back from meeting your full potential. Create safe spaces As a recovering addict, you have to create safe spaces for yourself. Whether that means steering clear of certain people or avoiding situations where you know drugs or alcohol are present is up to you. Make a commitment to remain sober and stick with it, even if it means disappointing people. If your family and friends aren’t giving enough supports for recovery during your recovery journey, reach out to your 12-step program’s service office for guidance and recommendations on reaching out to other individuals who can support you during your journey through recovery. This might be one of those times when being alone is actually better than being surrounded by toxic influences. It may feel lonely at first, but after some time passes, you will find that being alone has its own unique set of benefits. You get to focus on rebuilding your life without outside distractions and influences; there’s no one around to keep you from doing what you need to do or talking about what they want to talk about—you get back controlling your life and can start living it on your terms again. Remove Triggers The simplest way to make your environment get more supports for recovery is to remove triggers for your addiction. If you have a substance abuse problem, it’s essential that you cut off access to alcohol and drugs. For food addicts, try taking all junk food out of your house and replacing it with healthy options (if you sense that it). It can also be helpful to quit bad habits like smoking or using social media excessively. You might find it easier to abstain from these things when they aren’t around. In addition, get rid of anything else that will pull you away from your goals—it may sound silly, but I was once told by a recovering alcoholic to get rid of my running shoes to be because he found himself being pulled outside at night when he should have been sleeping. His point was that if he couldn’t run, then running shoes were just another trigger for him—they were calling his name every time he passed them by. So, I threw them away. Change your routine Routines are important to your recovery. For example, if you’re a morning person, and you always hit snooze on your alarm clock, even when you don’t need more sleep, try setting it for an earlier time. Every time you hit a snooze, your body becomes accustomed to waking up later and later, causing a vicious cycle. But once you break that routine by forcing yourself out of bed at 6:00 am, it will be easier to wake up at that time than before. The same goes for getting into bed at night—if you have trouble falling asleep at 10:00 pm every night, set your phone or computer to turn off an hour earlier each day until you reach 9:00 pm (or whatever works best). You may find that after breaking these routines a few times, they become much easier. This can apply to all sorts of habits—from eating dinner with friends to playing video games. All habits can be broken and replaced with new ones if you give them enough time. It takes patience, but it’s worth it! And keep in mind that it’s not about thoroughly changing everything about your life overnight; simply making small changes can make a big difference over time. Appointments & Accountability: Having someone hold you accountable is one of the most effective ways to stay on track with sobriety. Whether it’s having a sponsor or going to meetings, there are countless people who want nothing more than for you to succeed and will help motivate you along the way. It’s important to find an accountability partner that fits your personality—you would rather not feel like you have no say in what happens—but finding someone who understands your struggles can be invaluable. Appointments can also be helpful if they aren’t too frequent. Find Support It is often easier to be vulnerable around people who have experienced similar problems. Take advantage of local support groups that are designed for people who want to quit drugs or alcohol. If you find a group you like, attend meetings regularly and get to know other members. Most support groups also plan events and outings, so members can socialize outside regular meetings. Some even offer counseling services through professional staff members. Support groups provide an opportunity to share your feelings with others who understand what you’re going through. They can help you feel less alone and more optimistic about your recovery process. If you don’t see a support group that interests you, consider starting one at your workplace or community centre. For example, if there aren’t any existing

Effects of Lockdown Depression on Mental Health during COVID-19

By admin June 14, 2022

The long-term effects of being in a high-security prison have been examined by the US Department of Justice, who revealed that inmates held in supermax facilities were more likely to harm themselves and attempt suicide than those in low-security prisons. These findings suggest that the prevalence of mental health issues among inmates has been exaggerated, but even still, it’s clear that prison can be especially hard on people with mental health issues, and depression, particularly when they are held in lockdown conditions. What’s more, COVID-19—introduced in 2013 to keep people locked up longer—seems to exacerbate this problem. What it means to be locked down Incarcerated individuals spend 23 hours a day in their cells, with little to no access to human interaction. Days pass without social or physical activity; phone calls, meals, showers, and recreation are regulated by correctional officers. For many, lockdown is debilitating—and it often leads to depression. But one drug has been shown to have some success treating symptoms of depression and PTSD: The anti-psychotic medication known as COVID-19. Unfortunately, many incarcerated people don’t have access to it because of cost—COVID-19 can cost up to $8 per pill at 15 pills per month for each patient. And even when prisoners do get prescriptions for COVID-19, they must go through multiple hurdles just to receive treatment. For example, COVID-19 isn’t available at all prisons, and only certain doctors can prescribe it. What’s more, there are limited medical staff members who can administer injections of COVID-19—and they aren’t required to see patients regularly. Without consistent care from trained professionals, inmates may not be able to stick with their prescription plans long enough to experience any positive effects from treatment. Living in cell Once you’re assigned to one of these, you have no freedom at all. You may have some very basic privileges for two hours each day to shower, make phone calls, or eat meals (if you can afford it). Other than that, you’re locked down inside your cell for 23 hours a day. And if you don’t like it? Well, there’s not much you can do about it. There is zero contact with anyone outside your cell—not even other inmates in other cells. The only way to communicate with someone else is by yelling through an air vent—and even then, most guards will tell you that they don’t hear anything unless they want to hear something. For example, if you wanted to get another inmate out of his cell, so he could help you smuggle contraband into yours, then yes—the guard would hear it. But otherwise? Good luck getting their attention. Increased Anxiety and Depression in Lockdown A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that people who work in open environments have much lower stress levels than those who work in private spaces. So, if you’re prone to anxiety or stress from lack of privacy, you might find yourself becoming quite anxious during COVID-19 lockdown knowing it causes depression, so it’s no surprise that it also causes stress. With everything being filmed at all times, there is nowhere for participants to hide their feelings. It could be argued that people will be more honest about their feelings, but with something as sensitive as mental health, it could prove detrimental to reveal too much information. With an increase in self-awareness comes an increase in fear—especially when you realize your every move is being recorded and analyzed by some faceless government agency. This heightened awareness can make even simple tasks seem overwhelming and can lead to high levels of stress. Increased stress We’re already stressed because of our government, but now we’re in lockdown and suffering from depression. And with limited access to necessities like food, water, and rest, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. As tensions rise and word continues to trickle in about what is happening around us (if at all), depression will become rampant. If you’re dealing with depression or another mental illness now, you might find yourself unable to escape it if things continue as they have been over the past several days. Try not to isolate yourself from friends and family—you need support right now more than ever. Remember that no one else has any control over your happiness; you do. You can choose to be happy, even when there’s very little reason for it. It won’t be easy, but I know you can do it! Take care of yourself by eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. Talk to someone you trust whenever you require help. There’s always someone who cares and wants to help—even if they don’t say so outright. Don’t give up hope just yet! Things will get better eventually… I promise. Stay strong out there! You got this…just keep breathing. Loss of control While some stress is essential for our growth, too much of it can have negative effects. Students who reported feeling under excessive control at school were more likely to report feeling depressed than students in schools without lockdown procedures. Furthermore, youth at one school said they felt like they were being treated like prisoners when dealing with these security measures. The loss of control that comes with these procedures can lead to feelings of depression or powerlessness, which, in turn, can negatively impact mental health. A young person’s sense of safety is also compromised by overly controlling environments; students lose their ability to learn effectively in an environment where their right to feel safe and comfortable has been compromised. Feeling unsafe not only makes students unhappy, but it also impacts their ability to concentrate and retain information; consequently, there may be an overall decline in academic performance as well as lower self-esteem. In addition, if students don’t feel safe in school, they might skip class altogether. One study found that students were twice as likely to miss class after a lockdown drill compared to before (26% vs 13%). In fact, many teachers have noticed an increase in absences following lockdowns—particularly among special needs populations, who already

What the Future of Mental Health and Addiction in India Looks Like Post-COVID-19

By admin June 11, 2022

The second National Conference on Mental Health and Substance Abuse, popularly known as the COVID-19, was held in Hyderabad recently. The conference saw discussions from experts from across the country on how to strengthen mental health and addiction services in India. Following the conclusion of the conference, there’s been some concern about whether policymakers will act on the recommendations that have been made to them by mental health advocates and professionals over the last few days. In this article, we consider what the future of mental health and addiction care in India might look like under the new government’s leadership. Roughly 39 million Americans had an alcohol use disorder in 2015, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. While it’s unclear exactly how many individuals had an illicit drug or opioid problem, the numbers are likely staggering. People tend to talk about these issues as if they were something that happened long ago, but mental health and addiction disorders still plague millions of people all over the world every day. Section 1:Overview of the bill The Central Government is mulling over a new piece of legislation that seeks to overhaul addiction care, specifically mental health and substance abuse treatments. The bill, titled The Compulsory Treatment for Substance Dependence Bill or COVID-19, will establish treatment centres across major cities with 24/7 services by trained professionals who can provide care to people with substance use disorders. It also mandates insurance companies to cover these costs. This means that more people will be able to access quality treatment facilities at affordable rates. In fact, it’s estimated that 1% of all medical expenses will go towards treating people with addiction issues. This alone could change lives—not just save them. With easy access to quality care, many patients may find their dependence on substances reduced. As per estimate from WHO (World Health Organization), 2% of global GDP is spent on treating people with substance dependence. However, according to one study conducted by UCL (University College London), as much as 8% of GDP goes into alcohol consumption alone. Section 2: What this means for drugs addicts Drug addiction, also known as drug dependence, is characterized by an intense craving for drugs. While these cravings are emotional at their core, they often manifest as physical sensations that can be alleviated with a hit. However, over time, repeated drug use leads to changes in brain chemistry that result in loss of control over drug use despite negative consequences. This is when someone becomes addicted to drugs. When treatment begins, it’s important to understand how addiction works, so you can avoid relapse. The following information explains how addiction develops and what you need to know about it to recover from drug abuse. How Does Addiction Develop? There are two major theories about why people become addicted to drugs: one focuses on your personal characteristics, and another on your environment. Here’s a look at each theory: Personality theory : Some researchers believe that some people have certain personality traits or tendencies—such as impulsive behaviour—that make them more likely than others to become addicts. Section 3: Benefits to Drug Rehabilitation Centres. One significant benefit that has been added to drug rehabilitation centres is that they can now have a licence to prescribe drugs to addicts. This will help them monitor patients who have relapsed or have been treated previously to guide them towards sobriety. There are many examples of how recreational abuse of drugs can lead to addictions which may be hard for an individual to overcome alone. Without proper guidance, professional help and training, addicts will not be able to keep themselves clean and will relapse easily. Drug rehabilitation centres offer support systems, therapy sessions as well as medical supervision so that people suffering from addiction can get back on their feet. Drug rehab also offer support systems for family members of addicts so that they too can deal with their problems effectively and move on with their lives. Such programs often involve counseling sessions where family members learn to deal with their emotions, as well as learning ways to communicate better with each other while supporting each other during difficult times. Section4: Negatives with the bill Although COVID-19 has been met with praise from many, it is not without its shortcomings. Chief among these are a lack of funding. The bill does not specify how money will be allocated to states for implementation or how much each state will receive. This could lead to some states receiving more money than others, creating a disparity between those who can afford treatment and those who cannot. The bill also does not address what happens if an addict relapses after completing treatment; there are no incentives for continued sobriety after completion of rehabilitation programs. These oversights aside, COVID-19 is a massive step forward for addiction treatment in India. It will provide addicts with more options for treatment, as well as more flexibility when it comes to addressing their individual needs. Most importantly, it recognizes that addiction is a disease rather than a moral failing, furthering our society’s understanding of recovery. Section 5: The Challenges Ahead The Alcohol and Drug Information Centre (ADIC) is already planning for a post-Covidien future. In an interview with The Quint, James Madhavan—CEO of ADIC—stated that his organization would continue to exist, will possibly move out of its current location at 1 Safdarjung Hospital, but has no plans to change its branding. With COVIDIEN’s era now over, ADIC can begin charting a new course. But what does that look like? How will it operate? And how do we plan for a post-Covidien world? Here are three possible scenarios. Possible Scenario #1: A New Name and More Freedom: One possibility is that all existing COVIDIEN products could be branded under ADIC. If so, then ADIC might consider adding some of its resources into each product as well; for example, maybe someone who wants to purchase one of these devices could also be offered a free

Weed in India: A history of how and when it became illegal

By admin June 9, 2022

Whether you love or hate weed, we can all agree that it’s way more popular than ever these days. As more states legalize weed for medicinal and recreational use, people have begun to wonder about the history of weed in India — what made it illegal, when was it banned and why? If you’re interested in reading the facts about weed in India or are looking to enlighten someone who doesn’t know much about this vice, read on to learn more! It’s known that the cultivation of cannabis and its usage as an intoxicant has been prevalent in India since the time of the Vedas and Mahabharata. Even today, cannabis use has remained widespread, despite many efforts by the government to curb it. Read on to know more about the history of weed in India, including its illegalization and the reasons behind it. Social Acceptance of Weed in India The legalization of marijuana has to begin with social acceptance. In a country like ours, where taboos are still prevalent, social acceptance will be paramount for any change to take place. The first step towards legalization will have to be greater knowledge about marijuana. Only then will people begin to understand that what they have been told so far is mostly false propaganda by right-wing conservatives. With increased awareness about marijuana, comes increased use. More use means more tax revenue for our government and less cost on our legal system as there would be fewer cases related to drug abuse/drug trafficking. (2) Research: Once social acceptance has been achieved, research can begin on whether legalizing weed is actually beneficial for our country’s economy. We should look at countries like Canada, Netherlands, and Portugal which have legalized marijuana. We need to study their successes and failures before we decide whether to legalize here. It might turn out that legalization doesn’t benefit us after all; but if we don’t even try to find out, we will never know. (3) Regulation: If we do decide to legalize weed, regulation will be essential for minimizing its negative effects on society. Botanical Classification of Weed in India Cannabis is a highly variable plant, with many varieties. It is an annual herbaceous plant that grows to a height of 1.5 to 6 feet (1.83 m) and has hairy leaves that are palmates compound or digitate, with serrate leaflets. The flowers are greenish-yellow and inconspicuous. The leaves have a peculiar and diagnostic odor—reminiscent of buckwheat honey—due to their high content of volatile terpenes. Although many strains of cannabis can be grown effortlessly, there are three main types: Sativa, Indica, and numerals. Sativa plants grow tall rapidly but have a relatively low cannabinoid content; they’re ideal for daytime use as they promote wakefulness and energy. Indica plants are shorter and bushier than Sativa, producing more cannabinoids than Sativa; hence, they’re ideal for nighttime use to help people relax and sleep. Numerals are auto-flowering and produce only trace amounts of cannabinoids. However, because these traits make it less desirable for recreational growers, its genetic characteristics have been used to breed several new strains that combine auto-flowering with other desired traits from either indices or Sativa. These new hybrids are known as pure or landrace strains. Research on Hemp From its use as a fibrous plant for making ropes, to an oilseed crop grown mostly for its edible seeds. The most product-famous use is as an ingredient in marijuana cigarettes, but some experts say that uses such as hemp seed oil, hemp protein, hemp milk, and hemp tofu are even more promising. Hemp fiber (rope) was used from very early times until well into the 19th century. The more common types of rope were usually made from Manila or sisal fibres. The name Manila comes from a type of abaca known as Manila hemp, which was widely used on ships starting in 1543. Manila hemp had been exported to Europe since around 1600 and was commonly referred to by Europeans as American cotton. It is still sometimes called Manila hemp, although there are other Philippine species of abaca (see below). In 1639, King Charles I issued a proclamation prohibiting all sales and growing of cannabis throughout his empire. This first prohibition appears to have been motivated not so much by concerns about recreational drug use, but rather by commercial reasons. Cannabis was introduced into India in 1820 via Bengal (where cannabis has existed since ancient times), following the North Indian custom of using Zhang during Hole festival celebrations. This caused considerable alarm among European colonial authorities and resulted in restrictions on the sale and consumption of hang at several points between 1837 and 1937. On August 27, 1985, President Ronald Reagan signed into law legislation amending Federal criminal statutes relating to controlled substances. These amendments included mandatory sentences for possession and trafficking in certain quantities of cocaine and crack cocaine. Cannabis as medicine Though medical weed is an extremely new field (and one that’s heavily regulated), there’s a lot of promising research surrounding its use as an alternative to traditional medicines. For example, many doctors agree that cannabis can be a suitable alternative to prescription painkillers, like Vicodin or OxyContin. Recent studies have also found that weed may help treat certain mental health issues like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mood disorders. As with any drug, though, you should talk to your doctor before trying marijuana for any reason. And keep in mind that even though weed is legal in some states for both recreational and medicinal purposes, it’s still considered an illegal substance by federal law—which means you could face legal trouble if you travel with it across state lines. It’s best to check out information about cannabis laws where you live, so you know what’s allowed where you are. Reefer Madness of Weed in India The reason weed was made illegal in India is due to a stigma that was created against weed. In 1937, New York Mayor Fiorella LaGuardia commissioned a report

Young adults with COVID-19 suffer from anxiety disorders too

By admin June 7, 2022

There are many reasons behind anxiety disorders. The most common misconception that children and teenagers do not suffer from anxiety and depression has been proven to be false time and time again, and young adults with COVID-19 are no exception. If you have been feeling especially stressed lately, it may be helpful to know that there are ways to manage your symptoms so that they don’t get out of control. Read on to learn more about the most common mental health conditions among teens with COVID-19 and how you can take care of yourself. What is COVID-19? In 2013, a 22-year-old college student in India was diagnosed with a rare condition called OVID (Common Variable Immunodeficiency), which left him highly susceptible to various infections. Although it is difficult to know exactly how many people have COVID-19 in India—since patients might not even be aware of their condition—the disease has been estimated to affect around 100 people each year. The young man’s plight gained traction across media platforms and forums because he is believed to be one of just two reported cases of COVID-19 diagnosed in India as of late. It also spurred an outpouring of sympathy and concern among medical experts who are working toward solutions for sufferers. One such expert, Dr. Rajiv Jain of Fortis Hospital in New Delhi, recently told reporters that although some medications can help treat some symptoms of COVID-19, patients need lifelong care and support. As part of ongoing efforts to spread awareness about COVID-19, a small group called Children With Immune Deficiencies India launched a website earlier this month where those interested can learn more about diagnosing and treating the disease. This website offers information on both general information on immune deficiencies and specific information about treating those affected by COVID-19. For example, patients can find out more about specific symptoms they may experience while using treatments like immunoglobulin therapy or blood transfusions that help address deficiencies in blood cells. How does it impact life? If a young adult is suffering from COVID-19, they may experience complications. Both physical and emotional consequences of having an anxiety disorder can be distressing to cope with daily. For those who don’t know what it feels like to live in such extreme fear for so long, it’s difficult to understand how someone could feel that way. However, when you have COVID-19, you are often plagued by constant thoughts of death or injury. You might have trouble sleeping at night because your mind won’t stop raving about all of your worst fears coming true. You might also find yourself constantly worrying about everything in your life because you think something bad will happen if you don’t do something right away to prevent it. It isn’t surprising that people with anxiety disorders are more likely than others to develop depression as well. When you’re depressed, your body releases chemicals called neurotransmitters into your brain. These chemicals make you feel sad and sluggish most of the time. People with anxiety disorders already release these same chemicals into their brains naturally because they worry so much. When they become depressed, their bodies respond by releasing even more neurotransmitters into their brains, which makes them even more anxious. This cycle usually continues until someone gets help for both conditions. Symptoms of COVID-19 and anxiety disorders Sufferers of COVID-19 and associated symptoms often experience various types of anxiety. Just because people are young doesn’t mean they aren’t susceptible to experiencing panic attacks, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and social phobia. Here are some of the most common types of anxiety experienced by sufferers. Social anxiety disorder is one of the most common symptoms among those with Covert Invasion Virus – 19 (CIV-19). Panic attacks may also be present in those who have COVID-19 but are less likely than GAD or social phobia. Individuals diagnosed with Covert Invasion Virus – 19 should be aware that coping skills can help them deal with all three disorders. It’s a good idea to practice these healthy habits such as talking therapy, exercise, yoga, or other relaxation techniques daily so when a stressful situation arises you can feel confident in how you handle it. If you are struggling with any of these issues and would like more information on how to cope, please contact your doctor immediately. Good News Anxiety disorders are very common, but many people don’t seek treatment because they’re embarrassed or afraid of being judged. The good news is that there are many types of treatments available today for anxiety disorders, including medication and talk therapy. The sooner you get help, the sooner you can begin feeling better again. When to seek help It’s common for people to feel some level of stress at some point in their lives. The key is knowing when your stress levels become so overwhelming that they can affect your health and personal relationships. Take these steps if you think you might be suffering from an anxiety disorder: Talk to a trusted loved one about how you’re feeling—and ask for his or her support. If you don’t have anyone to confide in, consider speaking with a mental health professional (many offer free initial sessions). If it feels appropriate, tell your doctor what’s going on; he or she may refer you to a specialist who can help. And don’t hesitate to reach out for help—the sooner you start treatment, the better off you will be. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s quite brave. So take care of yourself by reaching out today. You deserve it! Take care of yourself by reaching out today. You deserve it! 1st, 2nd and 3rd paragraphs about symptoms. 4th paragraph is about seeking help for your own sake as well as those around you. 3rd paragraph also has examples of treatments available including CBT, psychotherapy, and medication therapy among others. 4th paragraph is a reminder that it’s OK to ask for help because you deserve it. 5th and 6th paragraphs are about how to seek

How to Stay Sober with the Power of Positivity?

By admin June 4, 2022

It can be difficult to stay on the wagon after years of substance abuse and the array of associated risks that come with addiction, but positive thinking can help you stay sober and avoid falling back into old habits. If you’re struggling with addiction, it’s easy to fall into a negative mindset, even if you know you should focus on what you have instead of what you lack. But thinking positively isn’t just good advice – it’s good science! Focus on how to stay sober Getting sober can be incredibly challenging, so keep a positive attitude. The single most important factor in determining sobriety is an individual’s motivation and willingness to change his or her drinking habits. If you want something bad enough, you will find a way; if not, it won’t happen. Having strong support from family and friends during recovery is also critical. Research has shown that those who participate in Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are more likely to remain sober than those who don’t. Smile In recovery, you need a strong support system. You’ll likely have great friends and family who are dedicated to your well-being, but occasionally those closest to us are unaware of how we’re truly feeling because we hide our emotions beneath a veil of positivity. You must surround yourself with positive people; however, it is also significant that you develop genuine positivity within yourself. This will help prevent relapse in times of stress or temptation. Here are some ways to think positively: – Try not to compare yourself to others. Just like comparing apples and oranges, you can’t make an accurate comparison between two different people. Focus on your strengths and abilities instead of worrying about what others may be doing better than you. Surround yourself with positive people. Surrounding yourself with toxic individuals is never healthy for anyone involved. If someone makes you feel bad about yourself, distance yourself from them immediately. If they bring negativity into your life, they won’t contribute anything meaningful to it either way. Take advantage of every opportunity presented to you—and don’t take things for granted! Every day brings new opportunities and experiences—you just have to open up your eyes and pay attention! Don’t get stuck thinking negatively when something good happens. Instead, focus on how lucky you are to have been given another chance at success. Remember to breathe. Pray/Meditation A sober lifestyle is about so much more than giving up substance abuse. It’s about learning how to be happy and healthy without using something, or someone, else as a crutch. And if there’s one thing that can help you achieve sobriety in every sense of the word, it’s meditation and prayer—two practices that encourage acceptance of what is and clarity on what could be. Meditation teaches us to accept things for what they are and let go of any negative emotions we may have attached to them; prayer reminds us that we are not alone, but part of a greater whole. Both practices will serve you well in your recovery process by helping you focus on positivity rather than negativity. Forgive We’re all human, and occasionally, we slip up. When you do, forgive yourself for your shortcomings—and more importantly, forgive others for theirs. When someone does something wrong, think about why they might have done it. For example, if a friend keeps canceling plans last minute, maybe she has a lot on her plate at work or is having some family issues at home. Life is tough and full of surprises—cut people some slack when things go wrong! You never know what could be going on in their lives. And, remember: forgiveness doesn’t mean you let people off scot-free; it just means that you don’t hold on to resentment. If someone does something that hurts you, talk to them about it, so they can understand how their actions affected you (and so they can apologize). Then move forward from there and don’t let them take up space in your mind any more than necessary. This way, you won’t be bringing any negativity into your life. Instead, fill it with positivity by being kind to yourself and others around you. This will not only help keep your stress levels down but also bring joy into your life. So many people are struggling with addiction problems today, I hope my experiences help inspire change within themselves to live a happier, healthier life! Exercise your mind, body, and soul to stay sober Many addicts have difficulties exercising their minds, bodies, and souls. People suffering from addiction often have very low self-esteem—and they’re also in poor physical condition. The good news is that people can dramatically improve their lives and break out of addictive cycles by making small but consistent changes in all three areas. By exercising your mind, body, and soul regularly, you’ll be giving yourself every opportunity to stay sober in life…and clean in mind. It doesn’t matter whether you prefer yoga or running; going for walks or swimming laps; painting landscapes or practicing calligraphy; knitting scarves or throwing pots. There are hundreds of ways to make time for exercise, so find something that works for you and stick with it! Taking part in activities outside of work will give you more opportunities to meet new people and broaden your social circle, which is critical for maintaining sobriety. After all, how else will you go out drinking with friends? Now take one day at a time: One day at a time may sound clichéd, but there’s the truth behind those words. Contact with others Anyone who’s been in recovery knows that it can be difficult to stay sober. When you’re around people who drink or do drugs, it’s easy to justify your behavior and break down. Stay sober by surrounding yourself with supportive people—people who you know are not only happy for your success but will celebrate your wins. Reach out to friends and family members who have similar goals as you; connect with a support group;

Drug addiction in India- a problem that is only getting worse

By admin June 2, 2022

In today’s world, it has become common to see the presence of some form of drug use in the lives of those who are suffering from depression or other mental health issues. Unfortunately, what people do not realize about drug addiction in India is that it can occur to anyone regardless of their social class, gender or age group and could even have an adverse effect on their work and family life as well as their mental health. This article provides information on just how widespread drug addiction in India actually is, why so many people turn to drugs, and the physical and psychological effects they can cause if this problem goes untreated. Drug addiction has always been an issue in India, but recent government research suggests that it’s affecting more people than ever before. The study, which was conducted by the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre, estimates that about 2 million people are dependent on drugs in India, and that there’s an average of 40-50 new cases every day. In the report’s conclusion, the researchers suggest that the increase in drug use may be attributed to several factors, including poverty and social marginalization, but they ultimately call on the Indian government to strengthen its efforts to prevent addiction and treat those who are already addicted. The History of Drug Abuse in India India has historically struggled with drug addiction problems, but what’s behind India’s increase in drug use? It’s a combination of socio-economic factors, higher disposable income among urban populations, and extensive coverage by local media. It’s also not an issue restricted to cities like Mumbai or New Delhi; rural areas are dealing with these issues as well. In both metros and smaller towns, drug abuse is disproportionately prevalent among young people. One reason for that may be unemployment—particularly because treatment centers aren’t widely available throughout India. Moreover, there isn’t much education about drugs in schools (although many schools do have anti-drug programs). There also aren’t any resources at home to help families identify potential drug abuse issues—because Indian parents tend to consider substance abuse to be a social issue rather than one that affects their family directly. The lack of conversation around drugs in India means they can sneak up on you quickly—and if you notice signs of drug abuse, get professional help immediately. But where can you find support? Read on to learn more about rehab options in India. The Number of Drug Addicts is Increasing A 2012 report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) states that drug addiction in India is growing. It estimates that approximately 10 million of people use drugs in India, out of which 4.2 million are injectable users. This number may seem small when compared to developed countries, but for a developing country like India, these numbers signify high levels of substance abuse. The same report also shows that India has one of the highest rates of injecting drug use in the Asia-Pacific region. The rate has been increasing since 2007; from 0.1% to 0.6%. The demographic most affected by substance abuse is youth: UNODC’s study reveals that the majority of addicts are young adults. Opiates are Fuelling Most Addictions Most of India’s drug addicts are hooked on opiates. In 2015, according to National Crime Records Bureau data, 8.7% of all crimes in India were committed intoxicated by drugs or alcohol. Of these crimes, 56% were opium-related, while 35% involved cannabis. A third type of narcotics – sedatives including heroin – accounted for just 5%. Opium has a long history in South Asia as a medicinal plant and recreational substance. It was widely used in India during British rule. (1757–1947) when colonial authorities encouraged its cultivation. During that time, opium addiction was widespread across society; many soldiers and civil servants relied on it to get through their days, sometimes even selling off their landholdings to fund their habits. Rise of Cheap Opioids Today, opiate use is most common among low-income groups in rural areas. The rise of cheap synthetic opioids such as fentanyl has also contributed to rising levels of addiction. Fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. It can be mixed with other drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine without users knowing they have taken it. Even small amounts can cause overdose symptoms such as drowsiness, confusion, constipation, and slowed breathing—and death if left untreated. Stats Says… Since 2016, India has been fighting an opioid epidemic. From January to September 2017 alone, 12,574 people died from opioid overdoses in Uttar Pradesh state, Most of India’s drug addicts are hooked on opiates. In 2015, according to National Crime Records Bureau data, 8.7% of all crimes in India were committed intoxicated by drugs or alcohol. Of these crimes, 56% were opium-related, while 35% involved cannabis. A third type of narcotics – sedatives including heroin – accounted for just 5%. Opium has a long history in South Asia as a medicinal plant and recreational substance. It was widely used in India during British rule (1757–1947) when colonial authorities encouraged its cultivation. During that time, opium addiction was widespread across society; many soldiers and civil servants relied on it to get through their days, sometimes even selling off their landholdings to fund their habits. Current Day Scenario Today, opiate use is most common among low-income groups in rural areas. The rise of cheap synthetic opioids such as fentanyl has also contributed to rising levels of addiction. Fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. It can be mixed with other drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine without users knowing they have taken it. Even small amounts can cause overdose symptoms such as drowsiness, confusion, constipation, and slowed breathing—and death if left untreated. A Rise in Female Addicts Experts say that a rise in female addicts shows how drug addiction is becoming more widespread in India. This can be attributed to a higher number of working women, who

Can drug experimentation be healthy?

By admin May 31, 2022

Drug experimentation can be fun and can open up an entirely new world of experiences to someone who has never tried them before. It can also be very dangerous, and lead to poor choices that can negatively impact the rest of your life. Here are some tips to make sure you’re getting the most out of experimentation while keeping yourself safe and healthy along the way. What are Drugs? The word drug can refer to both legal and illegal substances. In general, drugs are chemicals that impact on your body’s functions—physically, chemically, psychologically, or all three. They alter how you feel physically, alter how you think psychologically, and even change who you are as a person. While some drugs might have medical uses (such as painkillers), others are used for recreational purposes only. This means they don’t have any health benefits but instead make people feel good or high by changing their mood, senses, and thinking patterns. This is why they are often referred to as recreational drugs or party drugs. Some examples of these include ecstasy (MDMA), cocaine, amphetamines, and marijuana (cannabis). The most common type of drugs To understand what can happen when you experiment with drugs, it’s important to know some of their most common types and how they affect your brain and body. First, there are stimulants and hallucinogens—these include cocaine, methamphetamines, amphetamines, ecstasy, and LSD. These drugs activate pleasure receptors in your brain that cause a flood of dopamine, which is why it’s so easy to develop an addiction after using them for just a short time. Then there are depressants like alcohol, opiates (like heroin) and benzodiazepines (like Xanax). These relax your muscles by slowing down signals from your nerves to your brain. Finally, there are marijuana-based products like hashish or THC oil; these alter how messages pass between nerve cells in parts of your brain responsible for memory, thinking, and concentration. The safest way to take drugs If you choose to experiment with drugs, there are safer ways to go about it. Try different methods to find out what works best for you. Here are some tips, Have a sober friend with you when you take drugs. Take small doses and wait until they kick in before taking more—this way, if something goes wrong, there’s time to react or call an ambulance. Avoid mixing drugs; even legal substances like alcohol can intensify your high or make you sick. Don’t drive while intoxicated of any substance—even prescription medications can impair your judgment and reaction times. Avoid combining any illicit drug use with other risky behaviours. Be honest with yourself: You may feel invincible right now, but remember that these substances can have lasting effects on your health and well-being down the road! The best time for trying new substances The best time to try new substances is not when you are in college or high school. If a student is considering trying marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamines, and other drugs like that, they should not take them while they are in high school or college. Most kids will experiment with drugs at some point during their teenage years or even earlier, but it’s important to wait until your brain has finished developing before experimenting with these kinds of things. This is because there have been studies done that show that people who start using alcohol, tobacco and other drugs during adolescence have an increased risk for addiction later on in life. There also seems to be a connection between early substance use and mental health problems such as depression and anxiety disorders. What are the health risks associated with drug experimentation? When you think of someone experimenting with drugs, what comes to mind? Perhaps you think of a party scene, with numerous young people out in public and possibly getting drunk. While that is one way to experiment with drugs, it’s hardly the only one. In fact, there are some surprising health risks associated with experimenting with drugs—especially if you don’t do so responsibly. Let’s take a look at some of these potential dangers. What are some responsible ways to experiment with drugs?: Just because there are certain health risks associated with experimenting with drugs doesn’t mean that doing so can’t be done safely. After all, many adults drink alcohol or smoke cigarettes occasionally without experiencing any negative side effects whatsoever; perhaps we should view other forms of drug use similarly. The key here is moderation: make sure you know how much you can handle before taking more than your body can handle. Physical risk versus mental risk There are many physical risks associated with drug experimentation. The risk of overdose is a massive factor, especially if you’re experimenting with heroin, cocaine, or other hard drugs. Regardless of whether you’re experimenting in small doses to test the waters or doing large amounts to get an intense high, these drugs can cause damaging side effects that leave your body feeling unhealthy and weak. Additionally, taking drugs can make your veins susceptible to infections and disease. If you don’t use clean needles when injecting, for example, you could contract HIV/AIDS or hepatitis C. Even more common than contracting a serious illness is developing an addiction to drugs like opioids and stimulants; using them regularly can lead to dependence on them over time. Once addicted, it may become difficult—or even impossible—to stop using without professional help. Risks Vs Benefits-when can drug experimentation be healthy? Experimenting with drugs should always be considered dangerous, and perhaps even life-threatening. But despite these obvious risks, there are situations in which experimentation is beneficial. Let’s take a look at when drug experimentation may have benefits—and when it may not. Many people experiment with alcohol in their teens or early 20s, sometimes even before they turn 18, but they don’t see any long-term health effects on their brains or bodies. The same can be said for smoking tobacco: Inhaling smoke can hurt you both immediately and long term, but many people smoke cigarettes