Substance Abuse, or Just "Having a Good Time?" How To Tell
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Donna Schwartz
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Donna Schwartz, M.A., CAC III is the Community Services Clinician for Valley Hope's Colorado continuum for alcohol, drug and related treatment services. Donna's pilgrimage with Valley Hope began in 1999. She is a Marriage and Family Therapist and a Certified Addictions Counselor level III. Her years in this field bring an array of experiences- - from working with the addicted person, facilitating a family program, and couples work, to working in the community reaching out to professionals working with substance abusers. Connecting with professionals over the years has led to a 'follow up' provider list to refer Valley Hope patients to when they leave Valley Hope services. Her passion is helping the addicted person and their family find their way into recovery; assisting them to a facility that offers quality care that best fits 'their' individual needs.
One of the things Donna loves most about her role with Valley Hope is their philosophy of helping people; that of "treating each person with dignity and respect, as if they were your own loved one or closest friend"! Donna sees that our facilities have over forty years of experience; that this philosophy has served us well throughout those years. If you have questions about our treatment or want to know about options,
Donna's Email: donnas@valleyhope.com
Posted: Wednesday, May 9, 2012 4:11 pm
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Updated: 4:24 pm, Wed May 9, 2012.
Substance Abuse, or Just "Having a Good Time?" How To Tell
By Donna Schwartz, Community Clinician for Valley Hope in Colorado
Colorado Community Media
|
When it comes down to it, many people are unaware of the signs of someone who abusing a substance, compared with someone ‘having a good time' in a recreational or social way.
Lets talk about some common signs of someone who is abusing substances; these are known to be most common but not exclusive:
Physical
- Bloodshot eyes, pupils appear larger or smaller than usual.
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns, resulting in sudden weight loss or weight gain.
- Deterioration of physical appearance and personal grooming habits.
- Unusual smells on breath, body, or clothing.
- Tremors, slurred speech, or impaired coordination.
Behavioral
- Drop-in attendance and performance at work or school.
- Unexplained need for money or financial problems; may borrow or steal to get it.
- Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors.
- Sudden change in friends, favorite hangouts, and hobbies.
- Frequently getting into trouble (fights, accidents, illegal activities).
Psychological
- Unexplained change in personality or attitude.
- Sudden mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts.
- Periods of unusual hyperactivity, agitation, or giddiness.
- Lack of motivation; appears lethargic or “spaced out.”
- Appears fearful, anxious, or paranoid for no reason.
If you, a family member, or someone you care about show any of the signs above, feel free to contact me about a next step to take in helping yourself or them. There is hope!
Posted in
Preventative health
on
Wednesday, May 9, 2012 4:11 pm.
Updated: 4:24 pm.
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