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Written by Richard Rawson, Ph.D. Marisa Murgatroyd Edited by Emily Meyers Kris Langabeer Designed by Steven Kelly Cindy Phillips handbook Special Thanks to 2009 Eyes of the World Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission from the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews. www.methinsideout.com 2 3
ABOUT Meth Inside Out Meth Inside Out is a groundbreaking video-based treatment curriculum on methamphetamine addiction and recovery. The series is designed to equip meth users, their families, and the professionals who assist them with a solid understanding of the biological basis of addiction, effective tools for recovery, and, most importantly, hope for the future. Presented by UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, a leading research institution on the topic of methamphetamine, and Eyes of the World Media Group, this researchbased series presents the most up-to-date information in a compelling and easy-to-understand format. Meth Inside Out emphasizes the human impact of addiction by sharing personal stories of users and their families. Shot in high definition with state-of-the-art graphics, the series is designed to engage and inspire viewers. Created for maximum flexibility, the curriculum is designed to meet the needs of treatment centers, correctional facilities, community centers, social service agencies, and universities. The series is composed of 3 episodes, which can be used individually or as a set. Handbooks allow counselors to maximize the educational potential of each episode. meth inside out episodes Episode 1 Human Impact Human Impact provides an eye-opening introduction to meth s impact on individuals, families, and communities across the globe. Focuses on the magnitude and consequences of use, including physical and mental health problems, job loss, violence, incarceration, and effects on children. Explores motivations for use and examines why women and gay men are disproportionately affected, and how specialized treatment can benefit these groups. Concludes with concrete solutions. Episode 2 Brain & Behavior Brain & Behavior equips viewers with an understanding of how meth changes the brain and, consequently, behavior. 3D animations, accessible explanations, and personal accounts help viewers understand complex scientific concepts. Users learn how to better cope with the stages of meth addiction and recovery by gaining an understanding of the biological underpinnings of the high, tolerance, craving, paranoia, aggression, anhedonia, and healing. Episode 3 Windows to Recovery Windows to Recovery explores effective treatment practices across program types and settings. This episode empowers the viewer by providing actionable information and concrete tools for recovery, including creating structure, participating in sober activities, avoiding high-risk situations, and coping with craving. Windows to Recovery reveals that treatment is not a quick fix, but a set of activities leading to long-term changes in lifestyle, thinking, and behavior. The episode shows, without a doubt, that recovery is within reach. 4 5
foreword table of contents Meth Inside Out: Windows to Recovery is the last episode of a 3-episode series that presents critical information about methamphetamine addiction and recovery to treatment professionals, users in recovery, and the families of users. In this episode, viewers learn about: what meth treatment is and the different settings and options that are available. what clients can expect during treatment and recovery. how treatment providers can help clients cope with the challenging situations, thoughts, and emotions commonly faced in recovery. how treatment providers can help clients prevent relapse, build a new life, and stay connected to treatment over the long-term. Information as a Part of Treatment When people in treatment realize that their inability to control their impulses to use meth may be the result of changes in the brain rather than a fundamental character flaw, they can begin to accept their addiction and take charge of their lives. Providing this information in a clear, accessible, and engaging way is a powerful treatment tool. When people addicted to meth enter treatment, it is important to help them and their families understand meth addiction and what to expect in recovery. Well-informed patients understand the goals of recovery and can more effectively participate in their own treatment. Providing accurate information facilitates treatment efforts by allowing patients to understand the biological basis of their addiction and recovery. When family members understand addiction and recovery, they can be a major part of a patient s support system, rather than angry, confused bystanders. About Meth Inside Out Meth Inside Out Episodes Foreword Chapter 1: Turnaround Chapter 2: Getting Started Chapter 3: Early Recovery Chapter 4: Tools Chapter 5: Emotions Chapter 6: Relationships Chapter 7: Building a New Life Chapter 8: Relapse Chapter 9: Continuing Care 4 5 6 8 9 12 14 16 17 18 20 23 6 7
chapter 1 I Do Need Help. Consequences of Meth Addiction Addiction to meth is a very powerful brain disorder. Meth changes users brains and dramatically affects how they think, feel, and behave. As use progresses, users lose control of their behavior, and their lives spiral downward. The drive to use meth simply overwhelms all other considerations. They neglect their health, jobs, and families. As the negative consequences begin to mount, some users are able to recognize the damage and stop their meth use. Unfortunately, many others become addicted and are unable to recognize the harm caused by their use. Still others can see the damage, but simply can t stop using. The inability to stop despite bad consequences is a sign of addiction. Ambivalence About Entering Treatment People enter treatment for many reasons. In virtually every case, part of the person wants to stop using meth and another part wants to keep using. Ambivalence is a natural part of addiction, and it is very common for people to be confused and conflicted about their decision to enter treatment and stop using meth. Effective treatment works with clients ambivalence, bolstering the part of them that wants to stop using. This ongoing support often makes the difference in tipping the ambivalence balance in the right direction. Treatment Outcomes One of the most common misconceptions about treatment is that people have to want to stop using and be motivated to stop using in order to succeed. However, research has shown that treatment outcomes for users forced into treatment are no different from those for people who enter voluntarily. It makes little difference why a person enters treatment, the important thing is that they go. 8