It’s Resolution Time Again -- Adopt a Person in 2016
By R. Burt Prater, M.D.
About 3,000 years ago the ancient Babylonians began
the practice of making New Year’s resolutions. There
is just something about the start of a new year that
springs forth hope of changing for the better. The vast
majority of new-year resolutions are about changing
something personal and or physical like behavior,
weight, exercise, or sleep. Within a week after the new
year begins, most resolutions are placed in hibernation until the next new year when they are awakened,
dusted off and considered again. Aside from these
fleeting and rarely realized resolutions, on what can we
focus in 2016 that has the potential to come
to fruition and accomplish some meaningful
change? I believe all Christians would agree
that we should set as our number one priority the strengthening and expansion of our
relationship with the Lord. In addition to this
all important resolve, how about adopting a
person and resolving to assist a family member or friend in their life struggles with substance dependency. If you are one of the rare
individuals who has no knowledge of persons with
this problem, then you could contact a local halfway
house, shelter, or an outreach program like Developing
Horizons Ministries. This challenge will not be a quick
fix and most certainly will require a long-term commitment and perseverance.
A recent study reported by the American
Medical Association revealed that over 40% of
Americans know someone who is or has been addicted to prescription drugs—over and above the millions
dependent on illegal drugs and alcohol. Accidental or
intentional overdose of prescription drugs is quickly
overtaking automobile accidents as a major cause of
non- disease related deaths. The holiday season can
be difficult for those who have lost loved ones or are
themselves facing physical or emotional issues. Even
those of strong faith can find drugs or alcohol a more
convenient and instant relief from severe depression
than prayer. Unfortunately, the impairment from a
“drug fog” can mask or even enhance the depression
and severely impact the ability to make sound choices. The well-meaning but ill-advised and accusatory
counsel of family and friends will often worsen the
situation.
Without question, drug and alcohol dependency
is a subject that must be addressed carefully with sensitivity and free of any accusatory overtones. Denial
is usually the first response you will receive. An observable deviation from the person’s usual behavior
patterns is the most common warning sign.
Of course, there are medical conditions that
can produce similar deviations and that possibility must be entertained. The most convincing argument to offer is the observation
of behavior th ]