The Accidental Journey of Philly Songwriter Trip Boyd

Although his matter-of-fact and casual demeanor may not show it, Philly-based songwriter James “Trip” Boyd is a man who has led many lives, through which the common threads have been music and substance abuse. Now, exceedingly content in this latest stage of life, and with years of sobriety under his belt, Boyd was good enough to sit down with Recovery Unplugged to discuss his tumultuous past, comfortable present and hopeful future. For all of its uniqueness and its many twists, turns and layers, Boyd’s story is one that could really happen to anyone, and that’s exactly how he tells it.

The Accidental Journey of Philly Songwriter Trip Boyd syndicated from http://blog.rutexas.com

An Important Message from Recovery Unplugged Medical Director Dr. David Kramer

I’ve treated thousands of patients over my 20-year career as a doctor on the front lines of substance abuse and psychiatric illness. Recently, however, I had a heartrending experience that I feel must be shared; one that brings home the true nature of compassionate and genuine treatment in this fearful and uncertain time when millions of Americans suffer from life-threatening opioid addiction and struggle to access treatment.

An Important Message from Recovery Unplugged Medical Director Dr. David Kramer syndicated from http://blog.rutexas.com

US Prisons Using Vivitrol to Curb Post-Release Opioid Addiction among Inmates

Addiction and incarceration have been closely linked for decades. One of the primary critics of this country’s current drug laws is that they disproportionately punish non-violent offenders, needlessly crowding the prison system and tearing families apart. Looking at the current incarceration rates in US prisons, it’s hard to disagree with this assessment. It’s also true that prisons, themselves, can be incubators for addiction. Most recently there was a controversy regarding the smuggling and abuse of Suboxone in American prisons, proving once again that even anti-opioid drugs can be diverted and abused. A pilot program that provides Vivitrol injections to addicted inmates may offer medication-assisted treatment with diminished opportunity for diversion.

US Prisons Using Vivitrol to Curb Post-Release Opioid Addiction among Inmates syndicated from http://blog.rutexas.com

Donald Trump’s Drug Prevention Policy…So Far

On November 8^th, the country made its choice regarding which candidate it wanted as its next Commander-in-Chief. Amidst the tumult, uncertainty and fair amount of political venom of one of the most bizarre and divisive presidential election cycles in modern American history, it would appear that the dust of campaign season is beginning to settle; and while many are finding the results to be problematic and unsettling, institutional consensus dictates the country move forward and that President-Elect Trump focus on policy. This includes taking on the drug addiction problem that has become the most deadly and pervasive public health issue facing the United States, claiming over 47,000 American lives at its peak in 2014.

Donald Trump’s Drug Prevention Policy…So Far syndicated from http://blog.rutexas.com

2016 Red Ribbon Week Spreads Awareness of Drug Addiction

October 31^st marked the conclusion of this year’s Red Ribbon Week, a nine-day event meant to spread awareness and education regarding the dangers of drug abuse and addiction. Red Ribbon Week was established by the National Family Partnership, an organization established in 1980 by parents affected by drug addiction in their families in an effort promote empowerment and action. Since their inception, they’ve become a national leader in prevention, education and advocacy on a mission to lead and support American families in nurturing the full potential of healthy and drug-free youth. This year marked the 31^st anniversary of Red Ribbon Week, the organization’s flagship event.

2016 Red Ribbon Week Spreads Awareness of Drug Addiction syndicated from http://blog.rutexas.com

Recovery Unplugged Releases New eBook on the Impact of Addiction on Families

Families are the lesser-discussed casualties of addiction. For practically every one of the over 23 million Americans suffering from chemical dependency, there is a whole separate group of people suffering right alongside them. This family doesn’t even have to be blood-related. They can be anybody in our lives to whom we look for love, guidance, support and affection. When addiction threatens the family unit, loved ones of addicts can, and often do, become paralyzed with fear and uncertainty, resulting in inactivity and even enabling. Rather than let addiction and chemical dependency destroy the fabric of their family and threaten their loved one’s life, families can educate and empower themselves to guide their addicted loved one toward treatment.

Recovery Unplugged Releases New eBook on the Impact of Addiction on Families syndicated from http://blog.rutexas.com

Population of Addicted Homeless Rises Dramatically in Austin

If you live in the Austin area and have noticed a dramatic increase in the region’s homeless population, you’re not imagining things. A recent survey conducted by Ending Community Homelessness Coalition (ECHO) revels a 17 percent increase of homlessness in the past year. Part of this influx is attributable to the homeless-friendly climate found in Austin and nearby areas, where the economically disadvantaged can get a hot meal and find agreeable weather much easier than in other areas of the United States. Some shelters are serving lunch to an average of 300 homeless  per day, many of whom are hoping to get a fresh start in Austin and get back on their feet.

Population of Addicted Homeless Rises Dramatically in Austin syndicated from http://blog.rutexas.com

A SAFE and Happy Halloween: Alcohol and Halloween’s Burgeoning Relationship

This year Americans will have spent approximately $8.5 billion on Halloween. Translation: it’s not just a kids’ holiday anymore. While many of us still celebrate the occasion by taking our children or nieces and nephews trick-or-treating, or sitting at home and watching scary movies, Halloween has become an increasingly social (and increasingly adult) affair. As yesterday’s children become today’s adults, many keep the spirit of Halloween alive and well, and take their love of the holiday to new and more mature heights. This past weekend, many of us took part in Halloween celebrations that had little or nothing to do with children. There were parties, club outings and all other manner of grown-up events where the costumes were elaborate…and the alcohol was flowing.

A SAFE and Happy Halloween: Alcohol and Halloween’s Burgeoning Relationship syndicated from http://blog.rutexas.com

Holding Them Accountable: Find Out Where Your Candidates Stand on Addiction Treatment

As coverage of the 2016 presidential election dominates virtually every media outlet in the country, far less attention is being paid to the down-ballot races that will be decided on the same day. We’ve only recently begun to hear about the importance of these contests, and it’s been largely in relation to the race for the White House. On November 8, 2016, Americans will determine the outcome of 469 separate elections (34 Senate seats and all 435 House seats) that will arguably prove to have more impact on their everyday lives than who’s sitting in the Oval Office. This is an opportunity to affect real change in their community and let their voices be heard.

Holding Them Accountable: Find Out Where Your Candidates Stand on Addiction Treatment syndicated from http://blog.rutexas.com

Bunavail to Be Covered Under Texas Medicaid Program

If you or someone you care about are living in Texas and are currently struggling with opioid addiction, you may have access to a new medication resources to combat cravings and withdrawal symptoms. The state’s Medicaid program has announced that it will be approving anti-opioid drug Bunavail starting January 1, 2017. A product of North Carolina-based BioDelivery Sciences International, Bunavail is a combination buprenorphine and naloxone. It comes in the form of a sublingual film in a citrus flavor. Similar to Suboxone, the drug has been increasingly effective in treating the perils and rigors of long-term opioid withdrawal. The drug should be taken only when prescribed by a qualified physician.

Bunavail to Be Covered Under Texas Medicaid Program syndicated from http://blog.rutexas.com