#because just removing the symptoms of psychosis is not how it's treated/managed

[peanutbutterandbananasandwichs]

"Well it's not exactly medical" is one of those lines that is revealing of sooo much more than Dean (or the writers probably tbh) would ever hope to think . . .

Yes, sure, the wall inside Sam's head that Cas broke was a Supernatural wall broken by Supernatural means (although it would have broken eventually by itself by non supernatural means - very important).

But Sam's psychosis *is* medical (putting aside for purposes of simplicity issues of medicalising mental illness - the point is that outside of this context Dean *would* view this as a medical issue). He is experiencing trauma induced psychosis.

But Dean doesn't want Sam to be able to treat/manage his psychosis. Or address his trauma. He wants Sam "fixed". He wants the wall, the unstable last defence back.

Because it's much cleaner and easier to think that the problem is the wall being gone, and not the well of trauma underneath.

It's much cleaner to be able to place the blame squarely on Cas for "breaking his brother's brain" than to have to confront his part in shoving Sam's tattered soul back into his body and unleashing this trauma upon him.

"Someone did this to him" is so much easier to deal with than untangling the messy and complicated reasons why brains find ways like this to process trauma.

[sunwest-genetics]

Eating Cannabis Seeds – Is It Healthy?

Aside from growing, people buy cannabis seeds to consume them. Although there’s nothing wrong with eating seeds, there is a question if eating seeds is healthy or not. 

A quick answer

Eating cannabis seeds has no effect on health. Unlike consuming cannabis flower and plant parts which have natural cannabinoids, seeds do not have these natural chemicals. Therefore, you cannot eat cannabis seeds and expect to get relief from a medical condition you may have.    

A closer look at cannabis

Cannabis is a plant that has two forms: cannabis sativa and cannabis indica strains. Cannabis sativa and indica breeds look very different from each other as the effects of these different strains as well. 

Cannabis seeds may be sativa, indica or hybrid (a combination of an indica and sativa) therefore, the effects may vary depending on the breed of the strain. 

Cannabis sativa seeds

Cannabis sativa has been cultivated for centuries now but not as a recreational compound but as food, fiber, and medicine. Every part of the cannabis plant has used but it was not until the 20th century when sativa plants were studied for their medicinal value. 

Compared to cannabis indica, sativa strains have high levels of cannabidiol (CBD) than tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which is the psychoactive compound of cannabis plants.

CBD has natural sedative, anti-arthritic, anti-nausea, anti-anxiety, anti-psychotic and anti-convulsive effects. All these great have made this compound one of the most sought after treatments for different medical and mental conditions.  

Growing sativa marijuana seeds 

If you have decided to grow your own supply of marijuana then you must learn how to cultivate this breed. Cannabis sativa plants will grow best outside because these are tall and lanky plants which can reach heights of up to 20 feet. 

Sativa plants prefer warm, tropical climates with a humid climate. Prepare a growing space for large plants because these grow tall and thin plants. Although, these may take twice as long to mature compared to indica varieties. 

When you compare the leaves and flowers, you will notice a very different appearance. Sativa strains have long, thin leaves with cylindrical buds compared to leaf arrangement of densely packed indica strains.

The chemical compounds in marijuana

Why is marijuana healthy and why does it cause psychoactive effects?  These are all due to its chemical composition. 

Do you know that cannabis is one of the most studied plants in the world? And major studies and experts have found out the following. The plant has more than 489 different and only 70 are cannabinoids which are classified into 100 categories such as Cannabigerol type, 9-trans-Tetrahydrocannabinol type, Cannabielsoin type, 8-trans-Tetrahydrocannabinol type, Cannabichromene type, Cannabidiol type, Cannabicyclol type, and Cannabinol type.

And aside from cannabinoids, there are also proteins, enzymes, non-cannabinoid phenols, simple acids, fatty acid pigments, flavonoids, and vitamins. It is clear now that cannabis may have medicinal effects because of its chemical composition. Cannabinoids are the most prominent and are responsible for almost all the effects of marijuana.

What about cannabis seeds?

Aside from the prominent buds, the plant-like the leaf, shoot, and seed are used as well. Sativa seeds are roasted and eaten or ground to make coffee. Seeds can be eaten used raw or cooked. 

Seeds can be dried and eaten or this can be ground to make flour for cakes and pastries. The seed has nutritional components: 

27.1% protein

25.6% fat

7.4% carbohydrate 

6.1% ash

Therefore, you may need to consume a large number of seeds just to get your daily nutritional amounts of protein, fat, and carbohydrates.

Cannabis sativa health benefits

To get the best therapeutic effects, you must grow your marijuana seeds and harvest its buds. The buds of marijuana plants contain the best amounts of cannabinoids and thus this is the best way to harness the natural effects of these compounds. 

Cannabis medical effects

Marijuana has been used as a recreational drug but thanks to modern science and the dedication of many, its natural medical effects are now being uncovered. The plant was used as medicine before it was discovered for its psychoactive capabilities.  The rediscovery of its medicinal powers has made the plant suitable for the treatment of medical and health conditions.  

You can’t have medical effects without side effects which is why you must be wary about but the effects of cannabis which may overpower its psychotropic components. Cannabis was popular only for a short while in the 1800s and it was known as a medicinal herb in Europe and the US. It was used in the treatment of a number of medical conditions like birth labor, migraine, cough, menstrual problems, insomnia, asthma, and opiate use withdrawal. However, cannabis was removed from the register of medicines during the 20th century because of problems when it comes to dosing which has led to poor therapeutic effects or side effects. 

During the last 20 years, cannabis has gained massive popularity because traditional drugs proved ineffective as a treatment for a variety of diseases. Cannabis is natural, proven effective for centuries and has non-life threatening effects compared to traditional drugs. 

Glaucoma treatment

Research has been made when it comes to the ability of marijuana in the treatment of glaucoma. The very first study began during the 1970s and it was found that marijuana can control the symptoms of glaucoma. 

Glaucoma is a condition where the optic nerve is damaged because of high pressure in the eye. Damage can result in vision loss and worse, blindness. Up to 5.5 million people each year are diagnosed with glaucoma. 

According to the America Glaucoma Society, reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) is the best way to treat the condition. The National Eye Institute also found out that when cannabis was smoked it can reduce intraocular pressure in people with normal pressure as well as those affected with glaucoma.

Seizure management

According to the Virginia Commonwealth University components in marijuana play a critical role in dealing with seizures in epilepsy. This condition is described by recurrent seizures which are mostly hereditary or from brain injury.

Marijuana controls seizures, according to an Arabic writer – al-Mayusi as well as medical practitioners in the 1800s. According to earlier studies, cannabis can produce a significant improvement in the control of seizures in patients with cerebral palsy and in people who have chronic seizures. 

Patients who have received treatment have reported a reduction in seizures but had no change to a conventional medication when marijuana was consumed daily before bedtime. However daytime partial seizures and convulsions were reduced very significantly.

Cancer treatment

There are studies in the therapeutic applications of cannabis for cancer. It was found that active components of cannabis sativa plants follow the effects of the endogenous cannabinoids and thus may be able to activate specific cannabinoid receptors involved in the functions of the immune system. 

Cannabinoids can regulate cell signaling pathways needed in cell development. Cannabis sativa is also useful as a treatment for cancer chemotherapy side effects which include nausea and vomiting and anorexia. Patients suffering from lack of appetite can become malnourished and may suffer from metabolic problems. Marijuana can help them regain their appetite because this is a natural property of most marijuana strains. 

Chronic pain

According to a review by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine of the thousands of studies regarding the effects of using marijuana as medicine have shown that almost all marijuana users used the drug to reduce some kind of pain including chronic pain. 

Marijuana can relieve chronic pain because of the cannabinoids that bind to the cannabinoid receptors in the brain. This reduces chronic pain as well as muscle pains, headaches and many more.  

Multiple sclerosis

There are studies that point out that marijuana products taken orally may reduce symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Patients have reported improvement in the symptoms of spasticity however, the positive effects were seen in the overall health and improvements of the participants of the study. This discovery can significantly help aging adults as they suffer from the natural effects of aging.

Drug addiction and alcoholism

A study of marijuana in the treatment of drug addiction was published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology. This showed that cannabis may help patients that are alcohol or opioid addiction treatments. Marijuana’s natural compounds can fight their addictions and help them live better lives. 

Depression, anxiety, and PTSD

A study published in Clinical Psychology Review mentioned that marijuana may support patients who are diagnosed with depression and PTSD or post-traumatic stress disorder. 

The study said that cannabis use is not a treatment for psychological conditions like psychosis. The study mentioned that marijuana can reduce symptoms of anxiety. On the other hand, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine mentioned that regular use of cannabis may have a different effect. They said that cannabis may also lead to an increase in the symptoms of anxiety especially when this is not used in moderation or according to a physician’s prescription.

To use cannabis for its many medical effects, always consult a cannabis-friendly doctor and never take medicinal cannabis without supervision.

[alexatwood86]

Adderall Abuse

Are you feeling stuck?

Let’s take a moment for a reality check.

Adderall (amphetamine salts) can be addictive. In fact, using this strong stimulant without a prescription can lead to long-term side effects, including physical dependence on Adderall or Adderall addiction. And addiction can be hard to break! But, here’s the important question:

How do you know if you have a problem with Adderall in the first place?

In this article, we cover the common signs of abusing Adderall. Then, we describe the effects of taking Adderall over time… and how to address an Adderall problem for yourself or a loved one. At the end, we welcome your questions and concerns in the designated comments section. We try to respond to all of our reader’s questions!

Reach out. You are not alone.

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Struggling with Adderall abuse? Call 1-877-848-0342 TODAY. ANYTIME: Helpline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You don’t have to suffer another day.

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What is Adderall abuse, really?

Adderall – a combination of two stimulant drugs, amphetamine and dextroamphetamine – is a medication used for the treatment of people diagnosed with either attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or narcolepsy. Despite its medical usefulness, Adderall is a drug with a high abuse potential.

But, what exactly does “Adderall abuse” mean?

Drug abuse occurs any time that you take a prescription drug outside of prescription guidelines. Any of the following activities associated with obtaining and administering Adderall count as [illegal] drug abuse.

Adderall abuse includes:

When you take higher doses of Adderall than prescribed.

When you take the medication more frequently than prescribed.

When you take Adderall through a non-approved method like chewing, or crushing and snorting it.

When you take Adderall for reasons other than medical need, such as to stay awake for long periods of time.

When you take someone else’s medication.

When you buy Adderall from an illicit source for recreational use.

Adderall Problems are Medical in Nature

Recent studies have shown that the number of people who are using Adderall for therapeutic reasons is smaller than the number of those who use it for effect. Thus, the majority of Adderall users seem to be abusing the medication for recreation or enhancement of mental and physical performance.

However, drug problems are hugely stigmatized. It can be difficult to ask for help. Know that Adderall problems are medical in nature. While you may feel ashamed to have a problem with Adderall, it’s actually quite common. And treatable!

In fact, we’ll cover how drug problems are treated a little further in the text. So, continue reading. Or, reach out today. You don’t need to struggle alone any longer.

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Why not get help before things get out of hand? The earlier, the better. Call us at  1-877-848-0342. You are never alone.

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Does experimentation = abuse?

Often, yes.

When you experiment with Adderall to enhance performance, you are abusing the stimulant drug. Furthermore, using Adderall without a prescription is illegal. According to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), any obtaining of a Controlled Substance without a doctor’s prescription and using it in ways, doses, or frequency other than suggested is considered to be abuse.

But you may be thinking:

“I need Adderall to help me lose weight.” “I will take Adderall just this one time to help me study.” “Adderall works great to boost my physical performance.” “Taking Adderall is fun and gets me high.” “I have to take Adderall to help me stay awake.”

This kind of dabbling can lead to problems down the road.

Q: Why? A: Because there is no such a thing as a “safe” way to abuse Adderall.

In other words: Adderall can mess with you big-time. People use Adderall because it produces feelings of confidence, euphoria, increased concentration, and suppresses their appetite. However, while these effects might make Adderall tempting for someone looking for a boost in physical or mental performance…they come with a price. When you take Adderall without a prescription, you risk damage to your physical health and your mental health.

How can you tell if you’re abusing Adderall?

Main signs of Adderall abuse

If you suspect that you or a loved one might be getting out of the rails with Adderall use, you can look to detect some tell-tale signs of a problem. A person abusing Adderall may exhibit the following signs:

Physical signs of abuse

Changes in vision

Diarrhea or constipation

Dryness of the mouth

Headaches

Loss of appetite

Nausea

Uncontrollable shaking in hands or feet

Unintentional weight loss

Psychological signs of abuse

Aggressive behavior

Being overly talkative

Hallucinations

Nervousness

Restlessness

Paranoia

Secretive behavior

Sleep problems

Unusual excitability

Recognize some of these signs of abuse in yourself or a loved one? Don’t ignore the early warnings! It is important to deal with Adderall abuse before your “harmless” and “recreational” use lead to dependence or Adderall addiction. In fact, the sooner you seek help for a drug abuse problem, the better your chances for living a sober and fulfilling life.

Your age and your risk potential

Adderall abuse is generally associated with high school and college students. However, many post-college adults also abuse the drug. In fact, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) most people who have received treatment for an Adderall addiction started taking it when they were approximately 23 years of age.

Adverse effects of Adderall abuse

Some of the commonly mentioned health side effects of Adderall abuse include:

cardiovascular problems

damage to nasal cavities (if snorted)

fatigue

hostility

insomnia

loss of appetite

psychosis

weight gain or loss

withdrawal symptoms

But, your diminished physical and mental health is not the only aspect of your life that can be impacted by drug abuse. In fact, abusing Adderall can lead to serious effects on all aspects of your life including social, financial, and legal difficulties. These may include:

Co-occurring abuse of other medications and illicit drugs (dual diagnosis).

Financial troubles.

Legal problems.

Strained interpersonal relationships with friends and family.

Problems with advancements in education or career due to Adderall abuse.

Treating Adderall abuse

Effective treatment programs work by looking at both the physical and mental aspects of a drug problem. In fact, a successful rehab program will first help you to identify your current state and then help define what you need in order to become drug-free. Reputable treatment should be individualized and customized to meet your unique needs. This is why treatment always begins with a thorough assessment, including:

A physical exam

A psychological interview (1-2 hours)

A medical and family history

Drug screening or testing

Treatment experts report that the most effective approaches to treating an Adderall use disorder involve a mix of medical supervision and psychological interventions. Together, these interventions aim to help you safely remove Adderall from your system, uncover and address the reasons why you started to abuse Adderall in the first place, and become more equipped to abstain from using drugs in the future. A description of each follows:

1. Medical Supervision of an Adderall problem = The first step in treating Adderall abuse is to address your body’s chemical dependence. If you’ve been abusing the drug for a period of time, you can expect Adderall withdrawal symptoms to occur as traces of amphetamine start to leave the system. Common symptoms of Adderall withdrawal include:

apathy

anxiety

abnormally long sleep cycles

depression

disorientation

dysphoria (generalized dissatisfaction with life)

extreme fatigue

irritability

This is why it is important to be medically monitored and provided adequate medications to manage and treat withdrawal symptoms as they occur. Although currently there are no approved medications used to treat Adderall withdrawal, doctors may prescribed short term use of antidepressants, or will use specific interventions when required. You can also help treat Adderall withdrawal with over-the-counter medications that treat flu like symptoms, cramps, and insomnia.

2. Psychotherapy and Behavioral Therapies = A big part of Adderall abuse treatment is involvement in psychotherapy and behavioral therapy. You will undergo individual, group, and/or family counseling during the course of your treatment program. Commonly used therapies include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Educational Sessions

Family and/or Couples Therapy

Medication Maintenance Therapy

Motivational Interviewing

9 sources of help for an Adderall problem

You can get help for Adderall abuse from a number of different medical professionals.

1. An Adderall Abuse Helpline – One of the most convenient ways to get professional information, guidance, and help for Adderall abuse is to CALL A HELPLINE 1-877-848-0342. Conversations are toll-free, anonymous, and completely confidential. You can ask questions, talk to someone who is experienced in the area, and get the help that you need without revealing your name or any personal information.

2. Drug Treatment Centers – These facilities accept and rehabilitate individuals who face an Adderall use problem. Treatment is held in either inpatient or outpatient settings and can include a combination of pharmacological, psychological, and behavioral treatments.

3. Your Prescribing Physician – Your own doctor can provide assessment, referral, and medical exams in cases of Adderall addiction. Doctors can also help you address Adderall dependence by setting up an individual tapering program, and educate you about possible consequences of drug abuse.

4. Addiction Specialists – Doctors who are Certified Addiction Specialists are experts in helping people addicted to drugs like Adderall, especially on recurrent cases of abuse.

5. A Psychiatrist – These mental health doctors can help you address Adderall dependence and addiction through psychotherapy and administering medicines.

6. Licensed Clinical Psychologists – These health professionals can help diagnose and treat people experiencing Adderall use disorder. Recovery through psychotherapy is administered in an individual or group setting, and can also involve the family.

7. Your Local Pharmacist – Pharmacists provide instructions for proper use of prescription drugs like Adderall and can help advise you on a tapering calendar and best practices for slowly lowering Adderall dosing. But keep in mind that pharmacist can fill your prescription for Adderall for medical purposes only. Adderall prescriptions are closely monitored by pharmacists to prevent fraudulent prescriptions and to detect early signs of drug abuse.

8. Poison Control Center – Calling the Poison Control Center hotline is your best source of first-aid help in case of an Adderall overdose.

9. Licensed Clinical Social Workers – These professionals play an important part in treatment of drug abuse, including Adderall addiction. Social workers can help refer Adderall abusers to appropriate and affordable drug treatment centers in their living area, ensure the wellbeing of the family unit (especially children) and monitor progress outside the treatment facility.

Got any questions?

We strive to help all our readers find a safe and effective way to resolve their substance use. One way we try to help is by answering the questions you are trying to learn the answers to. We welcome you to post your questions and comments in the designated section below and do our best to provide a personal and prompt response to all legitimate inquiries.

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