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Approaching a young family member you suspect of abusing drugs or alcohol

Dr. Paul | January 26, 2015 | 2 comments
 
man standing with beer

The other day a good friend wanted to know how to talk to her 25-year-old daughter, Sarah, about her drinking. During the big playoff game between the Seahawks and the Packers (now that was a miracle!), Sarah drank almost two six-packs of beer! Sarah’s parents were concerned and wondered if Sarah had a problem. They weren’t sure what to say to her.

A few days later, a parent asked me—“How do I talk to my 22 year old son, Bill, about his daily marijuana use?”

Anyone can develop a drug or alcohol problem. But how do you know if it’s a serious concern? Take the self-administered... Read More

The Challenges of Chronic Pain

Dr. Paul | May 15, 2014 | 5 comments
 
photo of person holding two pill and glass of water

There was an uplifting article about “A Soldier’s War on Pain” in last Sunday’s New York Times, written by Barry Meier. In 2010, Sargent Shane Savage was on patrol in Afghanistan when a roadside bomb exploded, crushing 24 bones in his left foot and causing a severe concussion.

He was sent home a week later, and joined a legion of young men in the military who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, head injury, and now, chronic pain. In order to ease his pain, he was... Read More

Dealing with Addiction

Dr. Paul | November 07, 2012 | 6 comments
 
Man holding bottle

Mary’s husband Bill likes to drink red wine at night—several or more glasses. At family gatherings, dinners out, and at home, he often has “several too many”. After dinner, he is likely to fall asleep in his chair.  Other times, he can become angry or hostile. When Mary brings it up, he becomes aggressive—“You’re so judgmental! You’re not perfect either!” he quips.  

End of conversation.

His adult children have said something too. Usually they plead with Dad to “slow down” on the wine. Sometimes he might, but mostly he doesn’t. This has been going on for years.

Sarah... Read More