Sessions

Amphetamines are a class of drugs, comprising everything from Benzedrine to Captagon to Ritalin. Having first been developed in 1887, leading to the production of the Benzedrine Inhaler intended to widen bronchial passages, it quickly became one of the most abused drugs in the world, largely related to its use and abuse in World War II. Amphetamine variants have never truly gone away, and many have seen a resurgence in both illicit use and legitimate use for weight loss, treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and use in the academic setting as a "smart drugs." Through the years, amphetamines have been identified by numerous street names, which include "Crosstops", "Whites", "Black Beauties", "Bennies", "Pep Pills", and probably the most often referenced street name of "Speed." This presentation will look back at the beginnings of amphetamine drugs, it's legal use and abuse, and will discuss many of the indicators of amphetamine impairment and abuse..

Trauma is an intensely distressing experience that can be emotional, physical, spiritual, mental, or material, and it affects over 75% of adults and over 60% of children and adolescents. Trauma profoundly alters brain development and function, leading to potential lifelong effects. Trauma survivors are at increased risk of developing various substance abuse disorders as they often use substances to cope. Effective crisis intervention and treatment are vital for managing addiction and trauma, enhancing psychological well-being, and preventing long-term issues. Join Jess Kern and Brian Bauner as they delve into the intricate relationship between addiction and trauma, the crucial role of crisis intervention in recovery, and the importance of breaking the stigma around the therapeutic process. Learn how societal understanding and support can significantly improve treatment outcomes and promote effective healing. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and contribute to a more supportive community.

For years we have chased the substance of the moment. From heroin in the 70's, crack cocaine in the 80's, pain pills in the 90's, and the 2000's then back to heroin in the 2010's to the chemical concoture of the day we are faced with now. Yes there is a long history of the pharmaceutical companies playing prey to a culture that was ripe for the literal killing. But why was is so easy to take out over 100,000 a year on opiates, let alone the 108,000 on alcohol? We were ripe for the taking!  If we continue to do what we always did, we will continue to get what we always got. It's time we talk about the effective ways we can help communities come together to heal and the specific role law enforcement, coalition members, parents and community play. There is not one solution, yet what there is are proven and effective strategies that have worked to create community change and reduce substance misuse, overdose, suicide and more and create healthier outcomes and opportunites for all.