High in Plain Sight: Current Alcohol, Drug, and Concealment Trends and Identifiers

This course is for educators, prevention providers, coalition members, law enforcement, probation officers, school administration, treatment, counselors, and parents. This course covers alcohol and drug clothing, alcoholic energy drinks, alco-pops, alcohol and drug concealment methods and containers, drug paraphernalia, drug related music and groups, logos, stickers, new technology, youth party tendencies, party games, non-traditional alcoholic beverages, social networking sites, synthetic drugs, OTC drugs, inhalants, concentrates, E-cigarettes, and popular party drugs. This course can also cover common stash compartments that can be used to hide weapons inside everyday clothing containers and other items, in addition to the impact on traffic safety.

The Role of Honesty in Reducing Disparities

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [HHS] Office of Minority Health, health equity is the attainment of the highest level of health for all people. However, an honest look at the data reveals that individuals from various cultural backgrounds are unable to attain their highest level of health. The reasons for these less than favorable outcomes require an honest look at society and the key roles of individuals and institutions that serve those individuals from various cultural backgrounds. In this course we will explore those causes and discover ways to create an environment that allows for possible attainment of better health and behavioral health outcomes from populations that have historically experienced disparities.

Pain and Addiction

The presentation will discuss the scientific evidence of opioid-induced hyperalgesia and how the rebound effect of opioid pain medication actually creates chronic pain. The lecture will discuss regional cultural variation in the way pain is perceived and the way that it is managed. The discussion will also consider the purpose of pain and the long-term effects of masking pain chemically.

Fired Up!

This morning, we will explore how to stay motivated and excited at work. Most people enter drug and alcohol treatment professions because they have a passion for making a difference in people’s lives. The day to day though can be challenging. It’s easy to lose one’s enthusiasm. This lively course will not only have you leaving ASADS feeling fired up, but provide you with tools that will help keep the energy going.