In a perfect world no one would have to suffer depression, physical illness, harassment or stress. Why do people justify escalating personal drug and alcohol use. Are we just stressed out or do we lack the skills to live in an rapidly evolving environment? Matthew Shumka, BC Canada, shares a way out of the trap of substance addiction.
In today's fast paced and 'cut a corner to save a buck' society the common solution to a problem is to use a quick fix. Deep down we all know that this is extremely unpractical although in the case of drug and alcohol one time use can easily lead to addiction and sometimes death. It is sad where our priorities lie.
Alcohol consumption is a multi-billion dollar industry and it can be just as addictive and deadly as illegal or legal drugs. The common assumption is that we can try things once with little to no permanent effect. This is not the case. When we drink, especially in excess, our body rejects the substance either through throwing up, sweating or digesting. It is common sense that the same would occur with drugs.
I was very interested to read about the metabolites that remain in the body after substance use. Most people have felt these effects. After a heavy night of drinking, alcohol can been smelt in your sweat. As the article stated that most addicts began as a good person who just ran into a situation in which they could not cope, most people are aware of what causes addiction and the effects both short term and long term.
The problem arises with the attitude that "it won't happen to me" and that they will try it once and move on. Again in a perfect world this is would be fine however, one time use can lead to serious addiction or worse. I have seen first hand how a substance can completely overcome an individual. I have seen how a stressful situation or memory can take priority over work, friends, family and even self-health.
The harsh reality is that addiction occurs. Although through hard work and the will to change, addiction can be eliminated. There are people who have overcome similar experiences and can help others. Through various rehabilitation courses addicts can be re-educated and aided in the lengthy and tough recovery.
Everyone needs to step back from their daily life and routine and look at how we all can help. Although addiction is on an individual basis it is also a collective problem that effects us all. Everyone has been touched by addiction.
Look towards healthy and holistic solutions to everyday challenges. When drug and alcohol addiction becomes a problem, get extra help to re-build your health and character. Resiliency is the key factor in successful survival.
Avoid the crowds and avoid leaving your shopping to the last couple of weeks. The earlier you shop in the season, and the less you shop during peak shopping times, the less stressful it will be for you and the faster you can shop. Peak shopping times are weekends, evenings, and later in the week. Thanksgiving Day weekend, and the last Saturday before Christmas are the busiest shopping days of the year. Better times to shop are to be there when the store opens, and if you can, during a weekday.
Consider one type of gift for your gift list. Each year you can pick a theme that will suit most people on your list. One year you might give bookstore items, another year you might get winter hats and scarves and mittens, and another year you might give dvds. Or you could give chocolate or toiletries or jewelry.
If you tend to get stuck deciding what to get everyone, try asking! You can either ask directly or develop the art of subtle inquiry. For instance, you can ask a teenager what they are listening to and if there are any new releases. Earlier in the year people will often mention in passing things that they wish for without realizing it. Write these things down so you don't forget. Chances are good that even six months later they will not have gotten it yet for themselves.
For less fuss gift wrapping, you can use stores that offer gift wrapping services. Another option is to purchase a range of gift bags and tissue paper (to cover the tops).
Your biggest aid in avoiding the stress of holiday shopping is keeping a relaxed attitude. Remember that not getting the perfect gift is not the end of the world. You can make shopping fun by doing it with someone and planning lunch.
Both Tibor A. Palatinus & Cdmohatta are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.