RAYSAC Presents: What does Everyone Need to Know About Fentanyl?

July 28, 2022July 28, 2022 aneal Drugs, Opioids, Prescription Drugs, Substance Use, Trends Leave a comment

These printable handouts are available now by saving from this post and printing them yourself, or contacting raysacorg@gmail.com with a request to have them printed and delivered to you, absolutely free. Help us get the word out about this rising trend in Fentanyl overdoses!

The Ripple Effects of Opioid Misuse

July 12, 2022July 13, 2022 aneal Drugs, Life, Mental Health, Opioids, Prescription Drugs, Substance Use

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Extended Impacts of Opioid Misuse

We often talk about how things like addiction, stigma, or life-threatening overdose can harm a person with an opioid use disorder. Opioid addiction also affects people who are not currently misusing any substances, but who know somebody with an opioid use disorder. The impact on loved ones is sometimes called the “ripple effect.”

Here are some ways that opioid misuse can impact an entire community:

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Children

When children live in a home where opioids or other drugs are misused, they are more likely to experience trauma-related health problems later in life.¹ Growing up in a home with drug misuse is classified as an Adverse Childhood Experience (or “ACE”). ACEs are stressful, traumatic events that raise a child’s risk of many long-term health issues. For example, a 2019 CDC report estimated that nearly 2 million cases of coronary heart disease and 21 million cases of depression “would have been potentially avoided by preventing adverse childhood experiences.”¹

To be clear, ACEs include many other kinds of traumatic events as well. Opioid misuse in the home is just one of many factors that contribute to trauma-related health problems. And just because a child has witnessed drug misuse at home does not mean he or she will definitely have heart disease or depression later. Any ACEs increase a child’s risk for future health problems. But protective factors – like a supportive relationship with an adult – can enable a child to thrive in the face of hardship.

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Pregnancy and Newborn Infants

Opioid use during pregnancy can affect both the mother and her child in the womb. Babies who are exposed to opioids in the womb may show signs of withdrawal in the first few days after birth. This is called Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS), which can involve vomiting, tremors, sleep problems, seizures, and other symptoms. Opioid misuse by pregnant mothers has also been linked to preterm birth and stillbirth.² Opioid-related NAS occurs after being exposured to opioids long-term, so opioids that are given by a doctor at the time of delivery do not cause NAS.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://raysac.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/100920-hydrops.jpg” title_text=”100920-hydrops” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,2_3″ disabled_on=”off|off|on” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://raysac.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/100920-hydrops.jpg” title_text=”100920-hydrops” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” link_font=”||||on||||” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Pregnancy and Newborn Infants

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,2_3″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://raysac.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/images-4.jpg” title_text=”images (4)” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” link_font=”||||on||||” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Foster Parenting and Kinship Care

Sadly, opioid misuse and addiction sometimes cause parents to be unable to take care of their children. In situations like these, children may be placed the foster care system. The US Children’s Bureau estimates that drug misuse by parents contributed to 35% of all cases where a child was placed in foster care in 2020.³

Although many children are placed in foster care, others are cared for by extended family members outside of formal foster care. This is known as kinship care. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other relatives fall into this category if they give primary support and care for a child without the parent being present. According to the non-profit group Grandfamilies.org, more than 62,000 grandparents were responsible for their grandchildren in Virginia as of 2021.⁴ Both foster parenting and kinship parenting can be challenging, but resources for help are available! NewFound Families Virginia has a list of state-wide resources on their website: click here[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”16px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” link_font=”||||on||||” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ custom_margin=”||0px||false|false” link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]Opioid misuse affects everyone in our community. Even if you do not personally know somebody harmed by opioids, the collective impacts and costs to our society are very real. We can all help build a healthier community by staying informed, continuing to learn, and helping each other. To learn more…

- - Visit Family Wellness Roanoke to learn about local efforts to strengthen families: https://www.fwroanoke.org/
  - Read facts about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on the CDC’s website: https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/fastfact.html
  - Check out national resources for foster parenting and kinship care at Grandfamilies.org
  - Get involved with RAYSAC to promote youth wellness! Email raysacorg@gmail.com or click the Volunteer link above.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”8px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” link_font=”||||on||||” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ custom_margin=”||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”16px||0px||false|false” link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]References:

1. Merrick, M.T., Ford, D.C., Ports, K.A., et al. (2019). Vital Signs. Estimated Proportion of Adult Health Problems Attributable to Adverse Childhood Experiences and Implications for Prevention — 25 States, 2015–2017. MMWR Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report 68(44): 999-1005. http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6844e1

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). About Opioid Use During Pregnancy. https://www.cdc.gov/pregnancy/opioids/basics.html

3. Children’s Bureau, under the US Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families. (2021). AFCARS Report: Preliminary estimates for FY 2020 as of October 4, 2021. https://www.acf.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/documents/cb/afcarsreport28.pdf

4. Grandfamilies.org. (July 2021). Virginia GrandFacts State Fact Sheet. http://www.grandfamilies.org/Portals/0/State%20Fact%20Sheets/Virginia%20GrandFacts%20State%20Fact%20Sheet%2007.21%20Update.pdf[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”12px||12px||false|false” global_module=”6021″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ link_font=”||||on||||” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ header_4_font=”Times New Roman||||||||” header_4_text_color=”#000000″ link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]

DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE

Everything on this website is for informational purposes only. Nothing on this site is intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment offered by physicians. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have about a medical condition or treatment, including any prescription medications.

If you or someone you know has a problem with opioid use or other substance use, find treatment options near you by visiting www.findtreatment.gov

If you are feeling suicidal or in emotional distress, call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. In emergencies, dial 911.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”12px||12px||false|false” global_module=”5903″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”2px” border_color_top=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ border_style_top=”double” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52%22:%91%22border_color_top%22%93}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_class=”notranslate” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ link_font=”||||on|||#0C71C3|” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ link_option_url_new_window=”on” custom_css_after=”||” border_color_top=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52%22:%91%22text_text_color%22,%22border_color_top%22%93}”]

This website is available in multiple languages! We currently have translations (via artificial intelligence) in Spanish, Pashto, Persian, Swahili, Ukrainian, and Urdu.

You can view translations of our RADARs by using the flag menu in the upper right corner, or by clicking one of the following links:

- Spanish / En español: https://raysac.org/es/raysac-radar/
- Pashto / په پښتو کې https://raysac.org/ps/raysac-radar/
- Persian / به فارسی https://raysac.org/fa/raysac-radar/
- Swahili / Kwa Kiswahili: https://raysac.org/sw/raysac-radar/
- Ukrainian / українською мовою: https://raysac.org/uk/raysac-radar/
- Urdu / اردو میں https://raysac.org/ur/raysac-radar/

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Conversations About Prescription Painkillers

June 29, 2022July 7, 2022 aneal Change, Drugs, Healthy Behaviors, Life, Opioids, Prescription Drugs, Substance Use, Trends

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” custom_padding=”16px||2px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” min_height=”93.4px” global_colors_info=”{}”]Opioids are a class of strong, pain-relieving drugs. The term “opioid” comes from the word opium, a substance derived from the poppy plant. Opioids are very addictive and can lead to illness, overdose, and death if misused. Even so, opioids do have a legitimate use in medicine when they are prescribed and used correctly.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding_tablet=”” custom_padding_phone=”” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_blurb image=”https://raysac.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/opium.jpg” icon_alignment=”left” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h6″ header_font_size=”12px” header_line_height=”0.2em” body_font=”Arial||||||||” body_text_align=”left” body_text_color=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ body_font_size=”14px” body_line_height=”1.2em” width=”58.7%” custom_padding=”|||31px|false|false” animation=”off” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52%22:%91%22body_text_color%22%93}”]The reddish-brown substance found in the pods of poppy plants (above) is used to make opium.[/et_pb_blurb][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”|||-140px|false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”|||0px|false|false” custom_margin_phone=”|||0px|false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_margin__hover_enabled=”off|desktop”]

Prescription opioids include medicines like OxyContin®, Percocet®, Vicodin®, morphine, and others. These medicines are used to treat severe pain. For example, a doctor might give their patient an opioid painkiller to relieve severe pain after a surgery. Opioid painkillers might also be prescribed for long-term (a.k.a. “chronic”) pain, or for hospice patients.

Because prescription opioids are very powerful and addictive, doctors might not give them to a patient unless the potential benefits are greater than the risks. They may also try other treatments to relieve pain before prescribing opioids. Doctors and pharmacists use many strategies like these to limit the number of opioid pills in their community. The goal is to prevent patients from becoming addicted, and to reduce the likelihood that the pills could be misused by others.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]Healthcare providers think about many different factors related to opioid prescriptions. They consider safety guidelines and suggestions from the CDC; policies at their hospital, clinic, or pharmacy; the needs of the individual patient; the different kinds of opioids; other, non-opioid treatments for pain; and the conditions in their local community. With all these considerations, it is easy for people to feel confused or misunderstood. That’s why clear and honest conversations with your doctor are so important.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” link_font=”||||on|||#0C71C3|” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Here are some ideas and tips for talking with your doctor.

- - Ask, “Is an opioid really the best option?” Opioids are not the only way to treat pain. Ask about non-opioid medications, physical therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or other ways to manage pain.
  - Know what medicines you take. Keep a list of all your medications, including how much you take and how often. Talk with your doctor about everything you take: over-the-counter medicine, prescriptions, supplements, and even non-medical drugs like alcohol and tobacco. Some medicines can have dangerous interactions with other drugs, and your doctor needs to know this information to protect your health.
  - Use your medicine correctly. Always follow the directions of your doctor and the medicine label. For new medications, make sure you understand how much you should take, how often, with food or not, and so on. Ask about possible side effects and interactions with other medicines. If you notice any problems, call your doctor!
  - Store medicine securely and dispose of leftover pills safely. Visit TakeThemBack.org for a list of secure medicine disposal sites in the Roanoke Valley.
  - Stay aware of how many pills you have. Missing pills are a sign that someone else might be misusing them.
  - Know the signs of an overdose: confusion, slurred speech, slow breathing, unusual heart beat, unconsciousness, blue lips or skin, and cold or clammy skin. Call 911 immediately if you see someone overdose.
    - - Virginia has a “Good Samaritan” Law intended to protect people from being arrested if they call 911 for a drug overdose. For more information, click here or ask an attorney.
  - Carry and know how to use naloxone. Naloxone (or brand name Narcan®) can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and potentially save someone’s life. If you take an opioid medicine, consider telling someone you trust so they can administer naloxone in case of an overdose. (You can’t use naloxone on yourself if you are unconscious.) Learn more from the Roanoke City Health Department website here: www.vdh.virginia.gov/roanoke/naloxone/
  - If you have concerns or questions about anything related to your health, ask your provider. They are here to help!

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_blurb title=”Pills are Not Candy” image=”https://raysac.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/pills_1000x550.png” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h3″ header_font=”Arial||||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_text_color=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ header_font_size=”24px” body_font=”||||||||” body_text_color=”#000000″ background_color=”#e2e2e2″ custom_margin=”|||-16px|false|false” custom_padding=”|8px|8px|8px|false|true” animation=”off” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” border_width_all=”2px” border_color_all=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ border_radii_image=”on|8px|8px|8px|8px” border_color_all_image=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52%22:%91%22border_color_all_image%22,%22header_text_color%22,%22border_color_all%22,%22box_shadow_color_image%22%93}”]Just like we should be careful about how we use and store prescription opioids, we should also be careful how we talk about prescription opioids. Sometimes, when someone is about to have surgery, people will reassure them that they will not feel much pain because of “special, magic pills” or “the really good stuff” (referring to opioids). While opioids are one effective way to manage pain after surgery, we need to remember that opioids can also cause addiction and life-threatening overdose if they are misused. Please be mindful of how you talk about opioids, especially around youth.[/et_pb_blurb][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”12px||12px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” global_module=”6021″ saved_tabs=”all”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ link_font=”||||on||||” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ header_4_font=”Times New Roman||||||||” header_4_text_color=”#000000″ link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]

DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE

If you or someone you know has a problem with opioid use or other substance use, find treatment options near you by visiting www.findtreatment.gov

This website is available in multiple languages! We currently have translations (via artificial intelligence) in Spanish, Pashto, Persian, Swahili, Ukrainian, and Urdu.

You can view translations of our RADARs by using the flag menu in the upper right corner, or by clicking one of the following links:

- Spanish / En español: https://raysac.org/es/raysac-radar/
- Pashto / په پښتو کې https://raysac.org/ps/raysac-radar/
- Persian / به فارسی https://raysac.org/fa/raysac-radar/
- Swahili / Kwa Kiswahili: https://raysac.org/sw/raysac-radar/
- Ukrainian / українською мовою: https://raysac.org/uk/raysac-radar/
- Urdu / اردو میں https://raysac.org/ur/raysac-radar/

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What Everyone Should Know About the Risks of Speedballs

June 7, 2022June 7, 2022 aneal Drugs, Mental Health, Opioids, Prescription Drugs, Substance Use

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Mixing opioids and stimulants increases their risks.

Recent research is showing that opioid misuse often involves other kinds of substance misuse as well. In a recent study, researchers examined surveys from over 15,000 people across the United States who were entering treatment for an opioid use disorder between 2011 and 2018. The study found that more than 9 in 10 of these patients had also used at least 1 other, non-opioid drug in the past 30 days.¹ When we think and talk about drug misuse in our community, we need to remember that opioids are often combined with other kinds of drugs.

One common combination is mixing opioids with stimulant drugs, like cocaine. When a person uses opioids and stimulants mixed together, it is often called “speedballing.” Both kinds of drugs in a “speedball” are powerful and dangerous on their own, and using them together makes them even more risky.

The box below has more information about what opioids and stimulants are, and how they can negatively impact the body and mind.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#e8e8e8″ module_alignment=”center” border_radii=”on|12px|12px|12px|12px” border_width_all=”2px” border_color_all=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52%22:%91%22border_color_all%22%93}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”|-28px|16px||false|false” custom_padding=”|18px||18px|false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Opioids

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Opioids are a group of drugs similar to opium, which comes from the poppy plant. Opioids work in the brain to provide relief from pain, but they are also very addictive. You may hear opioids described as “depressants” because they can lower heart rate, slow breathing, and cause sleepiness or confusion.

The illegal drug heroin, as well as medications like Vicodin®, OxyContin®, Percocet®, morphine, codeine, and fentanyl, are all opioids. Although these drugs have medical uses (except for heroin), they require a doctor’s prescription because they can easily cause addiction or be misused.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse has more information about opioids here: https://nida.nih.gov/drug-topics/opioids

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Stimulants

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Stimulants are drugs that increase the activity of a body part, usually the brain and nervous system. Stimulants may cause increased mental energy, alertness, sensitivity to light or sound, or irritability. In addition, these drugs may cause increased heart rate and body temperature, nausea, widened eyes, tremors, and restlessness.

Cocaine (or “crack”) and methamphetamine are two examples of stimulants. These stimulants are very powerful and can lead to addiction and other health problems if they are misused.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse has more information about cocaine here: https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/cocaine and methamphetamine here: https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/methamphetamine

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Speedballs are often made from heroin and cocaine, but other types of opioid and stimulant combinations have also been used. Speedball mixtures have been used in a variety of ways.

People may misuse opioids and stimulants mixed in a speedball for many different reasons. A wide-spread myth is that the stimulant (or “upper”) effects of cocaine will counter-act the depressant (or “downer”) effects of opioids. Because of this myth, many people mistakenly think that speedballs are safer than opioids or stimulants alone. In fact, stimulants and opioids become even more dangerous when they are mixed together because they work on different parts of the body in different ways.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://raysac.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/heart-and-cardiogram.jpg” title_text=”heart and cardiogram” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” min_height=”265.8px” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]The effects of cocaine (and other stimulants) and opioids do not last for the same amount of time. Cocaine’s effects begin very quickly but can wear off after a few minutes to an hour. However, the effects of heroin and other opioids can last for several hours.

Because cocaine wears off quickly, the person’s heart rate may also change quickly. Remember that stimulants like cocaine raise a person’s heart rate, while opioids lower the heart rate. Someone’s heart may beat very quickly for the first several minutes after speedballing. But once the stimulant wears off, the full effects of the opioid are felt and the heart rate drops quickly. These sudden changes in heart rate can cause stroke or heart failure.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]The truth is speedballs are dangerous. Stimulants and opioids carry risks when used alone, but the risks are amplified when two illicit drugs are used together. Protect yourself by choosing not to use illicit drugs and taking medicine only as directed. Share this information with people you know![/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_bottom=”2px” border_color_bottom=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ border_style_bottom=”double” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52%22:%91%22border_color_bottom%22%93}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” link_font=”||||on||||” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]Reference:

1. Cicero, T. J., Ellis, M. S., & Kasper, Z. A. (Feb 1, 2020). Polysubstance Use: A Broader Understanding of Substance Use During the Opioid Crisis. American Journal of Public Health: 110(2). 244-250. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2019.305412[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” border_color_top=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ border_style_top=”none” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52%22:%91%22border_color_top%22%93}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_class=”notranslate” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ link_font=”||||on|||#0C71C3|” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ link_option_url_new_window=”on” custom_css_after=”||” border_color_top=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ global_module=”5663″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52%22:%91%22text_text_color%22,%22border_color_top%22%93}”]

This website is available in multiple languages! We currently have translations (via artificial intelligence) in Spanish, Persian, Swahili, Ukrainian, and Urdu.

You can view translations of our RADARs by using the flag menu in the upper right corner, or by clicking one of the following links:

- En español: https://raysac.org/es/raysac-radar/
- به فارسی https://raysac.org/fa/raysac-radar/
- Kwa Kiswahili: https://raysac.org/sw/raysac-radar/
- українською мовою: https://raysac.org/uk/raysac-radar/
- اردو میں https://raysac.org/ur/raysac-radar/

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px|100px||100px|false|true” border_width_top=”2px” border_color_top=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ border_style_top=”double” global_module=”5806″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52%22:%91%22border_color_top%22%93}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ specialty_columns=”2″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”|0px|-40px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”50px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|800|||||||” text_text_color=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ text_font_size=”18px” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52%22:%91%22text_text_color%22%93}”]

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Take-Aways from the Rx and Illicit Drug Summit – by Tony Segovia, RAYSAC Board Vice Chair

May 9, 2022May 9, 2022 aneal Change, Drugs, Mental Health, Opioids, Prescription Drugs, Substance Use, Trends

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Times New Roman||||||||” text_font_size=”14px” global_colors_info=”{}”]Pictured above, from left to right, are RAYSAC Board Vice Chair Tony Segovia, RAYSAC Board Member Sandra Pratt, Prevention Specialist Thomas Ragsdale, and Development & Evaluation Coordinator J. D. Carlin at the 2022 Rx and Illicit Drug Summit.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://raysac.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Head-Shot-Tony-250×300-1.jpg” title_text=”Head-Shot-Tony-250×300-1″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

RAYSAC board members and staff had the pleasure of attending the 2022 Rx and Illicit Drug Summit in Atlanta, Georgia. The Summit is the largest annual conference where stakeholders come together annually to share best practices and strategies for prevention, treatment, and recovery. Over the span of four days, there were numerous educational sessions to include: advocacy, clinical strategies, prevention, public safety, technology systems and strategies, trending topics, and treatment & recovery.

Since this is the first in-person event in two years, there was plenty of discussion from speakers on how the COVID-19 pandemic changed the landscape of healthcare delivery overnight. When the pandemic first hit communities and businesses everything shut down and behavioral health practitioners were forced to expand in innovative ways to serve their most at-risk community members. Of course, telehealth was the main way of expanding services, but there were also barriers to accessing these platforms or a need for quick changes to governmental policies that prevented the use of telehealth.

With the pandemic we also saw the highest rates of overdose deaths and unfortunately this trend is continuing to rise. Per the CDC, there were over 100,000 drug overdose deaths in the United States during a 12-month period ending in April 2021. This was a new milestone which was exacerbated by the pandemic and deadly fentanyl in the illicit drug supply. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF) is particularly deadly because in addition to being mixed into drugs, there is a mass production of fake pills which are then marketed as legitimate prescription medications. This is where we heard from a DEA official who provided a historical depiction of the ever-evolving drug market and discussed their media campaign, One Pill Can Kill. This campaign urges people to not take any type of medication that is not prescribed to them.

More recently, we have been informed that Virginia will receive $530 million from a national settlement with opioid manufacturers. Presenters shared a model law that community leaders and policymakers can use to help advocate for the adoption of state laws to ensure that the litigation proceeds are used to prevent overdoses, treat substance use disorders, and support recovery. Officials from many states shared ways in which they plan to safeguard the money to ensure that it is used for prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts and not misused like funds that have been received from the Tobacco Settlement since the 90’s.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” link_font=”||||on|||#0C71C3|” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ header_6_font=”Times New Roman||on||||||” header_6_text_color=”#000000″ link_option_url_new_window=”on” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

Lastly, we heard from numerous presenters on the need to increase prevention efforts, reduce stigma, and address racial and ethnic disparities. There was discussion on how adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have a relationship with a variety of substance-related behaviors later in life as well as an earlier onset of substance use. This calls for greater need of prevention efforts through early intervention and through education of those who are caring adults of the youth. There was also great discussion on the need for addressing and reducing stigma through social awareness and intentional engagement.

The conference was informative, thought-provoking, and very moving as there were so many stories of individuals navigating recovery or that unfortunately lost their battle with addiction. The biggest take away I have is that even with all the evidenced-based or evidence-informed programs, strategies, or tools that we have at our disposal, they do us no good if there isn’t awareness of them or if they aren’t being effectively implemented. Feel free to check out their website for more information: www.rx-summit.com

Special thanks to Tony Segovia, Vice Chair of the RAYSAC Executive Board, for writing this RADAR.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_blurb image=”https://raysac.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/279315493_10158976030368231_7367603581020602119_n.jpg” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” body_font=”Times New Roman||||||||” body_font_size=”14px” global_colors_info=”{}”]The artwork pictured above was one of many paintings displayed at the Rx and Illicit Drugs Summit. Created by Operation UNITE youth participants from eastern Kentucky, these paintings symbolize confidence, hope, and resilience.[/et_pb_blurb][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ custom_padding=”12px||0px||false|false” link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” border_width_top=”2px” border_color_top=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ border_style_top=”double” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52%22:%91%22border_color_top%22%93}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_class=”notranslate” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”||||||||” text_text_color=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ link_font=”||||on|||#0C71C3|” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ link_option_url_new_window=”on” custom_css_after=”||” border_color_top=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ global_module=”5663″ saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52%22:%91%22text_text_color%22,%22border_color_top%22%93}”]

This website is available in multiple languages! We currently have translations (via artificial intelligence) in Spanish, Persian, Swahili, Ukrainian, and Urdu.

You can view a translation of this page by using the flag menu in the upper right corner, or by clicking one of the following links:

- En español: https://raysac.org/es/2022/05/09/rx-and-illicit-drug-summit/
- به فارسی https://raysac.org/fa/2022/05/09/rx-and-illicit-drug-summit/
- Kwa Kiswahili: https://raysac.org/sw/2022/05/09/rx-and-illicit-drug-summit/
- українською мовою: https://raysac.org/uk/2022/05/09/rx-and-illicit-drug-summit/
- اردو میں https://raysac.org/ur/2022/05/09/rx-and-illicit-drug-summit/

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Fentanyl: Facts for the Digital World

March 14, 2022March 14, 2022 aneal Drugs, Opioids, social media, Substance Use, Trends

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ custom_padding=”19px||0px|||” link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” link_font=”||||on|||#0C71C3|” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]You may have seen some recent articles on the RAYSAC News page about fentanyl, but what exactly is fentanyl?[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” link_font=”||||on|||#0C71C3|” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ width=”100%” link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid similar to morphine, but up to 100 times more powerful. Fentanyl can be prescribed by a doctor to treat pain, but because it is so powerful, it is also illegally manufactured and sold. Fentanyl is so strong that very small doses can cause an overdose or death.

Recently, criminal drug organizations have been adding fentanyl as an ingredient in their counterfeit pills to increase their profits on the black market. However, a person may think these pills are authentic painkillers, when they are actually fakes that contain fentanyl. This can lead to unintentional overdose or death. In fact, according to a Virginia Department of Health report, fentanyl was involved in 71% of all drug overdose deaths in the state in 2020. The number of fentanyl overdose deaths has risen sharply over the past 5 years.¹

Unfortunately, social media has made it easier for dealers to sell drugs online, even to youth. Drug dealers can create anonymous profiles to sell illegal pills (potentially containing lethal amounts of fentanyl), often using coded messages and emojis.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_blurb image=”https://raysac.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/faux_fentynal_lethal_dose.jpg” alt=”DEA illustration of 2 milligrams of fentanyl next to a penny.” disabled_on=”on|off|off” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” body_link_font=”||||on|||#0C71C3|” body_link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ animation=”off” link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]Image source: Drug Enforcement Administration (dea.gov/onepill)[/et_pb_blurb][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_testimonial author=”Jarod Forget” job_title=”Special Agent in Charge, DEA Washington Division” company_name=”Quoted at this link²” url=”https://www.dea.gov/stories/2022/2022-02/2022-02-16/fentanyl-deaths-climbing-dea-washington-continues-fight” url_new_window=”on” portrait_url=”https://raysac.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Jarod-Forget.jpg” quote_icon=”off” quote_icon_color=”gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” body_font=”||||||||” body_font_size=”17px” author_font_size=”14px” position_font_size=”14px” company_font=”||||on|||#0C71C3|” company_text_color=”#0C71C3″ company_font_size=”14px” link_option_url=”https://www.dea.gov/stories/2022/2022-02/2022-02-16/fentanyl-deaths-climbing-dea-washington-continues-fight” link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{%22gcid-53dc02df-0d30-42af-bfa2-029888ff3a52%22:%91%22quote_icon_color%22%93}”]“Unfortunately, our kids are much more savvy with social media than we are. And they are the ones we see finding this stuff and dying from it. We must spread the word and stop this from happening in our communities.”[/et_pb_testimonial][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” link_font=”||||on||||” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]So what can we do about this fentanyl problem?

First, protect yourself by only taking medicine as instructed. Follow the directions on the medicine’s label, and do not share prescriptions. Talk to your doctor about the medicines you take; ask about their side effects and interactions with other substances. Do not take pills if you are not sure they came from a licensed pharmacy.

Next, have a conversation with the youth and young adults in your life. Share reliable information with them about the risks of fentanyl, counterfeit pills, and drug misuse. Have a conversation about social media and how youth can protect themselves online. If you are a parent or guardian, monitor your kids’ online habits and consider using parental control settings to block unsafe websites. You can also learn about the latest social media trends and what different emojis mean. The DEA has listed some examples of emojis used to sell drugs online at this link: https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2021-12/Emoji%20Decoded.pdf

Finally, share this information with others. You can help raise awareness of the dangers of illicit fentanyl and ways we can protect each other. And if you would like to get rid of any unwanted medications in your home, visit TakeThemBack.org to find a secure disposal box location near you.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” border_style_top=”none” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.10.8″ _module_preset=”default” link_font=”||||on|||#0C71C3|” link_text_color=”#0C71C3″ link_option_url_new_window=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”]References

1. Virginia Department of Health, Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. (Jan 2022). Fatal drug overdose quarterly report – 3rd quarter 2021. https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/content/uploads/sites/18/2022/01/Quarterly-Drug-Death-Report-FINAL-Q3-2021.pdf

2. DEA Washington Division, Public Information Office. (Feb 16, 2022). Fentanyl deaths climbing, DEA Washington continues the fight. https://www.dea.gov/stories/2022/2022-02/2022-02-16/fentanyl-deaths-climbing-dea-washington-continues-fight

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This website is available in multiple languages! We currently have translations (via artificial intelligence) in Spanish, Persian, Swahili, and Urdu.

You can view a translation of this page by using the flag menu in the upper right corner, or by clicking one of the following links:

- En español: https://raysac.org/es/2022/03/11/fentanyl-facts/
- به فارسی https://raysac.org/fa/2022/03/11/fentanyl-facts/
- Kwa Kiswahili: https://raysac.org/sw/2022/03/11/fentanyl-facts/
- اردو میں https://raysac.org/ur/2022/03/11/fentanyl-facts/

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Protective Factors: Ways to Build Wellness & Resilience in Youth

February 14, 2022February 14, 2022 aneal Drugs, Healthy Behaviors, Life, Mental Health, Prescription Drugs, Substance Use, Trends

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It is no surprise that youth and young adults have faced new challenges to their mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings from the 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey showed that, in the past year, nearly half of 10th and 12th grade students in the Roanoke Valley felt so sad or hopeless that they stopped doing some usual activities¹. Recent research has identified childhood depression as a key risk factor for opioid use in young adulthood (Shanahan et al., 2021)². This means we all need to be able to recognize warning signs and strengthen factors that protect youth mental health in our community.

If you are concerned about a loved one’s mental health or drug use, it is important to recognize warning signs of a developing problem. More importantly, it is essential to know that help is available and where you can find it! Here are some common signs and symptoms of drug misuse and mental health problems:

- - - Risky behavior (such as driving while intoxicated or having unprotected sex)
    - Sudden changes in appetite, sleep habits, personality, or mood
    - Acting secretive or suspicious
    - Withdrawal from friends, family, and favorite activities
    - Neglecting school or work responsibilities
    - Bloodshot eyes and unusual smells on body or clothes
    - Talking or thinking about suicide – If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call one of these emergency resources:
      - National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
        
        Crisis Text Line: Text the word HOME to 741-741
        
        Call 9-1-1
        
        You can also visit findtreatment.samhsa.gov to locate nearby treatment services for substance use, addiction, or mental health problems.

- - - Warning signs in younger children may involve behaviors. Some examples are:
      - Changes in school performance
        
        Frequent nightmares
        
        Frequent disobedience or tantrums
        
        Hyperactive behavior
        
        Fighting to avoid bedtime or school (due to excessive worry)

These are just some of the common signs that someone might be suffering from a mental health or substance misuse problem. Keep in mind that sometimes, warning signs might be hidden, or they may be caused by something other than a mental health or drug use problem. This list is NOT meant to diagnose a disease; it should only be used to help you decide if professional help is needed.

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While it is important to recognize signs of a problem and know when to get help, preventing problems from occurring in the first place is just as important. Many factors can increase or reduce a person’s risk for drug misuse. These are sometimes called risk factors and protective factors. Communities like ours can reduce the prevalence and impact of substance misuse by reducing risk factors and strengthening protective factors. And because many of these underlying factors influence multiple parts of society, we can all benefit from building up protective factors in our area.

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Protective factors can be found (and built up!) in any part of a community. They can be found in families, neighborhoods, communities, faith-based groups, schools, sports teams, clubs, friend groups and even an individual’s personal characteristics. There are too many opportunities for strengthening protective factors to list them all here, but some examples are:

- Parents who tell their kids that they do not approve of drug misuse
- School or workplace anti-drug policies
- Neighborhoods and communities that support positive connections
- Parents who are involved in their kids’ lives
- Students who have positive goals and hopes for the future
- Friends who encourage each other to do well at school and in life

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Boosting a teen’s mental health can be as simple as regularly asking them about school and their group of friends. We all need help from others sometimes, so let’s all show that we care about youth by investing in their mental well-being.

References

1. 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey implemented in the counties of Botetourt and Craig and the cities of Roanoke and Salem in grades 10 and 12. 47.3% of respondents said that, during the past 12 months, they felt so sad or hopeless almost every day for two weeks or more in a row that they stopped doing some usual activities.

2. Shanahan, L., Hill, S. N., Bechtiger, L., Steinhoff, A., Godwin, J., Gaydosh, L. M., Harris, K. M., Dodge, K. A., & Copeland, W. E. (2021). Prevalence and Childhood Precursors of Opioid Use in the Early Decades of Life. JAMA pediatrics, 175(3), 276–285. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapediatrics.2020.5205

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2021 Red Ribbon Week Student and School Contest Award Winners

November 29, 2021November 29, 2021 aneal Drugs, Healthy Behaviors, Life, social media, Substance Use, Trends

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RAYSAC would like to congratulate all of the 2021 Red Ribbon Week Student and School Award Winners! We had several submissions for the media contest from all over the valley, and some great talent! As always, our valley area schools rose to the occassion, and blew us away with their hard work and dedication to making this week a huge SUCCESS! Everyone should be proud of themselves, and we at RAYSAC wish we could give awards to every entry, because you all deserved it! Below are the student contest winners by grade level, and the school contest winners. Congratulations to all!!!.

3rd Place- Abby Craft- McCleary Elementary

2nd Place- Cora Crowder- McCleary Elementary

1st Place-Benjamin Williams- Troutville Elementary

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3rd Place- Lilly Swindell-McCleary Elementary

2nd Place- Ryleigh Neff- McCleary Elementary

1rst Place- Ashlynn Hale-Smith- McCleary Elementary

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3rd Place– Emma Lindsey- McCleary Elementary

2nd Place- Makenzley McCormick- McCleary Elementary

1st Place- Isabelle Williams- Troutville Elementary

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3rd place- Kamberleigh Smith- McCleary Elementary

2nd Place- Rylee Mattox- McCleary Elementary

1st Place- Colton Molyneux- Troutville Elementary

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3rd Place- Cameron Vess- Troutville Elementary

2nd Place- Asher Everette- Fort Lewis Elementary

1st Place- Chloe Wilson- Grandin Court Elementary

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3rd Place: Alasdair Hackworth- Grandin Court Elementary

2nd Place: Finley Biddle- Grandin Court Elementary

1st Place- Kaylyn Sutfin- Grandin Court Elementary

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3rd Place- Aahana Magu- Hidden Valley Middle School

2nd Place- Luca Dorlini- Hidden Valley Middle School

1st Place- Ashlynn Shabana- Hidden Valley Middle School

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HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT

January 1, 2020October 1, 2021 aneal Drugs, Healthy Behaviors, Substance Use, Uncategorized

Teenage years can be an exciting time for growth and learning, but it can also be one of the most difficult. As they try to find their place in the world, they face pressures of changing times, changing norms, and never ending peer pressure. It is often at this time where they may start to experiment with drugs and alcohol. The average age of first use for marijuana is 14 and alcohol can start as early as 12². Teens start using for a variety of reasons such as boredom, depression, curiosity, stress, and/or peer pressure².

Adolescents are very talented at hiding what they are doing and there are many products available at home, in stores, and online that help with this process. These items usually look like ordinary household items that are often undetected by parents. Below are a few examples of items that are most used to conceal illegal drug or alcohol use:

Dryer Sheets: These can be used to mask the smell of marijuana on clothing, when smoking or storing³. These can be placed in the air vents of a bedroom or bathroom.
Custom Cans: There are numerous containers on the market with false bottoms or middles that can be used to store drugs. These can easily be purchased online and tend to look like everyday products like shaving cream and soda bottles³.
Sports Drinks and other colored and flavored drinks: Clear alcohol can easily be mixed with these and brought undetected to events³.
Sploof: A sploof is a homemade filter used to mask the smell of marijuana. These are usually made out of an empty toilet paper roll and dryer sheets. There are many YouTube videos that show how these are made³.
Homemade Smoking Pipes: These can be made out of many objects, including an apple or a soda can³.
Drinking Game Paraphernalia: Items such as ping-pong balls or solo cups can be an indicator of alcohol use³.
Flasks: These are available in many different shapes and sizes, including hairbrushes, lotions bottles, and tampon cases³.
Purple Drank or Lean: This is a slang term for a mixture of cold medicine, soda, ice and hard candy. The cold medicine usually contains promethazine and codeine and the effects of the drink last anywhere from 3-6 hours³.

Unfortunately, this is not a complete list of all the items that can be hidden in plain sight in any teenage room; there are many, many more. Parents, please be aware and make yourself familiar with these items. As always talk to your children about the dangers of substance abuse.

References:

AACAP (2018) Teens: Alcohol and Other Drugs. American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. March 2018 . https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/Teens-Alcohol-And-Other-Drugs-003.aspx
Drug Abuse. Teenagers and Drugs: 11 Real Reasons Why Teenagers Experiment. Drug Abuse. https://drugabuse.com/11-real-reasons-teenagers-experiment-drugs/
Power to the Parent. Hidden in Plain Sight. Power to the Parent.org. http://powertotheparent.org/be-aware/hidden-in-plain-sight/

The Holidays and Grief

December 1, 2019October 1, 2021 aneal Drugs, Healthy Behaviors

The holiday season is often an exciting and joyous time of the year; but for some it serves as a reminder of those loved ones who are no longer around. Grief is a powerful emotion that can wreak havoc in our everyday lives; causing anger, frustration, depression, and anxiety all at different extremes¹. As humans, naturally, we avoid unpleasant situations and/or feelings due to not being able to handle or process the heavy emotions that accompany grief. This may cause some to cope in different ways such as lashing out in anger or engaging in unhealthy activities. Substance use and self-medicating are other ways that some people deal with grief. Please be aware that this only gives temporary relief and it will not permanently take away the pain. Using drugs and alcohol to suppress feelings can lead to addiction and create more negative feelings that affect your mental health.¹ To help ease the holiday blues, listed below are a few healthy ways to prepare for the holidays while experiencing grief:

* Trust that grief is part of healing²: Time does not heal the pain associated with a loss; it is what you do with the time that matters. Do not try to escape the pain. Grief is a process and trying to avoid it only drags out that process.

* Set healthy boundaries²: You do not have to force yourself to face every holiday event or tradition. You are allowed to say no if something is going to be too painful.

* Focus on what you can control²: We cannot keep every bad thing from occurring. Think about what you can do to lessen the impact for when things do go wrong and then pick a few things that you can do to assert some control. For example, if you know that you tend to burn things while cooking, do not offer to bring anything that involves cooking.

* Plan ahead²: The holidays are stressful enough with all that goes into them and sometimes the anticipation is worse than the actual event. Create a plan for yourself, so that you can prepare for what is to come and have an escape route if needed.

* Allow yourself to feel a range of emotions²: This one is very important. Our emotions play into our everyday lives. It is our brain’s way of telling us how we feel without words. Do not block out these emotions. Embrace them and know that you do not have to hide them.

* Find ways to honor your memories²: Find a special way to memorialize the person whom you have lost. Whether it is lighting a candle or eating that person’s favorite dessert. This will help you feel that even though they may be gone, their love never fades.

* Create new traditions²: Sometimes old traditions fade away after a loved one has passed on. Do not be afraid to create a new tradition or alter an old one.

* Do something kind for others²: Volunteering or donating gifts to someone in need are just a couple of ways that you can do something kind for someone. Performing an act of kindness can be good for a grieving person and it will help produce that feeling of having something to offer the world.

* Ask for help²: Do not be afraid to ask for help when you are struggling. Whether this is a family member, friend, a professional, or even a stranger. If you feel that you need to talk to someone, there is always someone around who will listen.

Knowing healthy ways to cope and knowing when to ask for help are of the utmost importance. Parents or Guardians, if your family has recently experienced a loss, please talk to your kids about how the loss is affecting them and discuss healthy ways to manage those feelings.

Happy Holidays from RAYSAC and a Happy New Year!

Resources:

1. Addiction Center (2017). 4 Ways Greif Can Lead to Addiction. Addiction Center. 1 August 2017. retrieved 12 December 2019 from https://www.addictioncenter.com/community/4-ways-grief-can-lead-addiction/

2. Morin, A., (2015). How to Deal with Grief During the Holidays. Psychology Today. 21 December 2015. retrieved 6 December 2019 from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/what-mentally-strong-people-dont-do/201512/how-deal-grief-during-the-holidays