Just Say No...

Just Say No was an advertising campaign prevalent through the 1980's and 1990's that was part of the War on Drugs. The purpose was to try and teach young people the dangers of recreational drugs.

It is now our turn "take our own medicine", as it were.

The abuse of prescription pain medication has been skyrocketing in this country. According to an article at MSN, "Substance abuse treatment admissions for non-medical use of prescription pain relievers have increased more than 400 percent over 10 years, according to a new study."


According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) administrator Pamela S. Hyde, "The non-medical use of prescription pain relievers is now the second most prevalent form of illicit drug use in the nation, and its tragic consequences are seen in substance abuse treatment centers and hospital emergency departments throughout our nation."

A few suggestions:

1) Consider alternative treatments for pain relief BEFORE you develop a dependency on medication. Consider chiropractic, acupuncture, massage, for example.
2) If you think that you might be addicted to pain killers, confront the issue, and talk to your MD about alternatives.
3) If you are taking pain medications for pain, and you are not sure if you are addicted or not, have an open discussion with your doctor.
4) Don't keep pain medications around the house and accessible to your friends, spouse, significant other, or children. Don't share your drugs with others.

SAY NO TO DRUGS.  Stop the insanity. Our society is addicted to the idea that there is a drug for everything, and it is time to stop thinking that health is found in a bottle of pills. Ask questions about every medication that you are prescribed. Here are a few that you might consider:

1) What are the desired affects of the drug you are giving to me?
2) What are the negative affects of the medication? Could you give me a printed list of all side affects?
3) What are the ramifications if I choose not to take the medication?
4) What are the ramifications, positive and negative, if I choose to take the medication?
5) How long do you expect me to have to take the medication? Is it short term or long term?
6) If long term, what are the long term study outcomes of people who take the medication?
7) Are there any natural therapy alternatives to the medication?

Whenever possible, say no to drugs.

Keith Biggs, DC
3617 E. Southern, Suite 8
Mesa, AZ  85206
www.eastmesachiropractor.com