Did you know that for every person experiencing a substance abuse problem, on average, at least six others are affected – partners, spouses, children, parents, friends, employers, and co-workers. Although family members, friends, employers and co-workers are often in the best position to intervene, on average, significant others do not seek direct help for their loved ones substance abuse or addiction problem for at least nine years. Those affected by a significant other’s substance abuse, may themselves experience significant physical, emotional, social and spiritual stressors. Some commonly experience anxiety, depression, and feelings of hopelessness when trying to deal with their loved one. YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Family members are often highly motivated to not only understand, intervene and support their loved ones experiencing problems with mental health and substance use, but also able to participate in the change and recovery process in restoring their relationship. The sooner one receives the help they need to recover the better the prognosis for recovery. We are here to help!

Did you know that certain food cravings are associated with a nutrient deficiency? Craving salt equals a lack of trace minerals, craving sweets indicates a chromium deficiency, chocolate cravings mean a lack of magnesium, craving dairy and cheese indicates an essential fatty acids deficiency, and a red meat craving means you need iron and/or B12. When your body is lacking essential nutrients, it can lead to chemical imbalances which alter the pH of your tissues. Ignoring the reasons behind your cravings won’t change them and will not improve your overall health. Nutritional testing and precisely formulated nutraceuticals are the best way to find out what nutrients you are lacking, give your body what it really needs, and handle those unwanted cravings for good.

One standard drink is 12 oz. of beer, (5% alcohol), 5 oz. of wine, (12% alcohol), 1.5 oz. of (40% alcohol). Research states, that it takes “one hour to metabolize one drink” of alcohol. So you would calculate # of drinks x 60 min. per drink. Only time can reduce your blood alcohol level. When your BAC registers .08 you will have trouble controlling the speed of your vehicle, difficulty processing information and reasoning, experience reduced coordination and ability to track objects, difficulty steering, 11 times more likely to cause a crash compared to a sober driver.

“A few cups of coffee will sober me up.” Only time allows the liver to metabolize alcohol 1 drink = 1 hour per drink. “I will just sleep for a couple of hours and then leave.” People often miscalculate how much they have drank over a given evening– returning home over the .08 limit. “I drive better when I have had a few drinks.” Peripheral vision is affected, (most accidents happen while crossing intersections). Depth perception – is also affected, judging distance at a stop light, (how far away is the other car), or running a red light.

The holidays are a time of many social and family events, gatherings, and opportunities for many to celebrate with family and friends. When hosting an event or gathering, it is important to ensure that there are alternatives for those who do not choose to, or cannot drink alcohol beverages due to health reasons. There are some wonderful alternative recipes for mocktails, smoothies and protein shakes. As a potential host or guest, it is important that you are aware of a) New low risk drinking guidelines, b) Impaired Driving Laws.

SRWC is a unique, welcoming, recovery-oriented community that accompanies individuals, family and friends affected by substance abuse in their journey toward recovery. We offer co-end or gender specific groups, individual, couple, and family counseling programs, that offer support for individuals and their families. Our Access and Exploring Options program offer support for individuals, who are referred, or mandated due to their drug or alcohol abuse, or are awaiting a place in a Residential Program. Our gender specific Continuing Recovery, and Work Sober programs focuses on maintaining their recovery goals. Our Family education and support programs include 1-1 and couples counseling.

“Driving under the Influence” (DUI), is the term used in Canada since 1921, to describe the criminal offense of operating a motor vehicle, while the person’s ability is impaired by alcohol or drugs.” If your BAC registers .08 or you have a blood test result that exceeds .08, it is punishable under the Criminal Code in Manitoba. “Driving While Impaired” includes: Swerving, weaving; jerky, sudden movements, failure to follow traffic signs and signals, tail-gaiting, or mishandling of vehicle equipment. Women are more vulnerable to the effects of alcohol due to differences in metabolism.