Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: Signs, Symptoms and Who Is At Risk?
You might have heard the term “functioning alcoholic” and wondered what it even means. Then, you might be searching for the meaning of the term and what it means to be a functional alcoholic. Then, let’s throw some light on the meaning of functioning alcoholics for your better understanding. We often relate alcoholism with people who are unable to function properly in their lives. This stereotype of alcoholic individuals seems to be not accurate. This is because several individuals who are alcoholics seem to function properly and deal with their daily tasks properly. If this is the case, then why are these individuals living a regular life while being alcoholic? While other groups cannot function properly because they are constantly under influence. Therefore, in this article, we not only discuss what is a functioning alcoholic but also how they differ from those with more visible signs of alcohol dependency. Perception About Individuals Battling Addiction Your concept or perception of an alcoholic will change when you learn how a functioning alcoholic person works. They are capable of living or maintaining a normal life while battling alcohol addiction. At one glance, you might not even know this person might have an addiction. Because they can do all their daily duties smoothly. Therefore, why was this term created, which means someone who is functioning even when dealing with addiction? This challenges the common stereotype of an alcoholic person who lives an undisciplined and disheveled life. The term “functioning alcoholic” could be used to describe a person’s condition, but it is not officially recognized. In the field of psychiatry, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) doesn’t recognize this term officially. However, several professionals use this term to describe a specific alcoholic person’s condition. So, understanding the phenomenon of the functioning alcoholic is important. Because it helps identify people who are going through this hardship. When you recognize a functional alcoholic, you can help them get the right treatment, which will get them better. Functioning alcoholics often hide their struggles with addiction while maintaining a normal facade. So, it becomes harder for you to recognize them and get them correctly diagnosed. Therefore, you must read this article to know how to identify one. This is so you can help them get the right treatment for recovery. What Is A Functioning Alcoholic? A functioning alcoholic seems to live a normal life while dealing with alcohol addiction. These individuals, you will observe, can do all the regular tasks and maintain a lifestyle without alcohol overriding their lives. Even if they are always under the influence, they can hold down a job and other obligations. Not only that, but they can also excel in some areas of their lives without alcohol overriding their entire life. Therefore, it becomes hard for you to identify these individuals. Because they look perfectly normal from the outside while dealing with addiction. These individuals know how to keep their professional and social lives separate from their addiction. You see, functional alcoholics are aware of their alcoholic addiction, which helps them hide it easily. They become skilled at hiding their shortcomings from the world. However, this addiction of a functioning alcoholic does not affect anyone other than themselves. It does affect their own lives if kept unchecked in the long run. As they continue to hide their struggle with alcohol, it becomes much more troublesome as time goes on. Functioning Alcoholics Live In The Grey Area Of Addiction A functioning alcoholic lives in the grey area of addiction, where addiction coexists with competence. While they are functioning like a regular individual, they also hide their addiction from their friends, family, or colleagues. So, they operate much more separately than an alcoholic consumed with addiction and a normal non-alcoholic. So how will you recognize a functioning alcoholic when they are living just like any ordinary person? You see, functioning alcoholics often rationalize their drinking habits as rewards for their accomplishments. So, if they can get their work done, they reward themselves. Again, if they do their duty towards their family, they will reward themselves with a drink. Again, their coping mechanism for dealing with the stress of daily responsibilities is through alcohol. So, when they accomplish their responsibilities day-to-day, they reward themselves with alcohol. But this facade of normalcy is fragile as they become more dependent on alcohol over time. As they start to deal with life problems with alcohol, this results in psychological issues. Maintaining a long-term facade of alcohol addiction is not the only problem a functional alcoholic face but health problems, too. High Functioning Alcoholism vs. Traditional Alcohol Use Disorder Traditionally, you could identify an alcoholic person from their visible signs of dysfunction. These dysfunctional problems were frequent performance issues, relationship problems, and deteriorating health. In contrast, high-functioning alcoholics may lead seemingly successful lives, masking their dependency behind a façade of competence. They may hold prestigious positions, maintain social connections, and even drink expensive wine without raising suspicion. Despite their ability to keep up appearances, high-functioning alcoholics often deal with a significant internal struggle. They might spend considerable effort hiding the extent of their drinking from others and themselves. This can involve elaborate routines to cover up the smell of alcohol and secret drinking sessions. Again, a functional alcoholic persistently worries about being discovered because of their addiction. You will see that the stress of maintaining a double life can be extremely problematic in the long run. In the long-term, this coping mechanism with alcohol can only affect negatively both physically and mentally. Along with the stress of hiding their addiction to alcohol and dealing with life’s problems, a functioning alcoholic is bound to break down at some point. This will lead to their worst fear of revealing their true nature. It’s this dual existence that differentiates high-functioning alcoholism from other overt alcohol use disorders. Other alcohol disorders are more visible due to their impact on an individual’s life. Recognizing The Signs of Alcohol Abuse There are significant risks to being a functional alcoholic despite its outward appearance. Because their pattern of drinking can be more than seven drinks per week. This leads to health risks in the long term. Again, continuous dependence on alcohol to deal with life can have adverse effects on the person’s psychology. From binge drinking episodes to the inability to stop drinking despite its negative consequences, these are some of the recognized risks of alcohol addiction. They may also experience withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit or cut back on alcohol consumption. Recognizing signs of a high-functioning alcoholic can be challenging as they are good at hiding their addiction. Therefore, it’s essential to identify these individuals, get them diagnosed correctly, and treat them properly. It’s important to note that these behaviors can be subtle and easily overlooked, especially when the individual is still managing to fulfill their personal and professional obligations. Over time, you will see that the consequences of high-functioning alcoholism become visible. Be it strained relationships, personality changes, mental health issues, and physical health problems related to alcohol abuse. You will start to see its effects on a functional alcoholic. Risk Factors and Consequences Certain factors can increase the likelihood of high-functioning alcoholism, including genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and untreated mental health issues. While they may avoid some of the immediate consequences associated with traditional alcoholism, such as job loss or legal troubles, high-functioning alcoholics are still at risk for severe health problems, including certain cancers and mental health issues. These health problems can include liver disease, heart disease, and neurological impairments that may not become evident until later in life. The psychological consequences are equally concerning, potentially leading to depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric disorders that can deteriorate the quality of life. Moreover, high-functioning alcoholics may face social consequences over time, such as eroded trust in relationships, marital strife, and a gradual withdrawal from social activities as they prioritize alcohol over personal connections. Despite maintaining a veneer of normalcy, the cumulative effect of these risk factors and consequences can lead to a tipping point where the individual’s ability to function at a high level is compromised. It is crucial to recognize these long-term risks and understand that the lack of immediate, visible consequences does not diminish the urgency for intervention and treatment. Seeking Support And Treatment For The High Functioning Alcoholic Addressing high-functioning alcoholism requires a comprehensive approach involving medical professionals, support groups, and rehab centers in Los Angeles specializing in addiction medicine. Loved ones play a crucial role in encouraging their family members or close relatives to seek help, but it’s essential to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Initiating this conversation can be delicate, as it often involves breaking through a wall of denial built up by the individual over time. Friends and family need to be informed about the nature of high-functioning alcoholism, to offer non-judgmental support, and to avoid enabling behaviors that can perpetuate the addiction. The process of seeking support often begins with an honest self-assessment or an intervention by concerned loved ones. This step is vital in helping the individual recognize the extent of their problem and its impact on their life and the lives of those around them. Professional interventionists can be instrumental in this phase, providing the guidance needed to navigate what can be a highly charged situation. Once the individual acknowledges the need for help, the next step involves finding the right treatment program. Treatment can range from outpatient therapy sessions to accommodate the individual’s work schedule. Or a more intensive inpatient program where you must take a temporary step back from daily responsibilities. The treatment choice should be tailored to the individual’s specific circumstances, considering their level of addiction, personal responsibilities, and any co-occurring mental health conditions. Throughout the recovery journey, ongoing support is essential for maintaining sobriety. Aftercare programs and sober living communities offer continued guidance and support, helping the individual to reintegrate into their daily life with new coping skills and a renewed focus on health and wellness. Support And Treatment Facilities Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous provide a vital lifeline for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorders, offering a sense of community and understanding. These groups facilitate peer-to-peer support and shared experiences, creating a space where individuals can speak openly about their struggles without fear of judgment. Treatment facilities offer residential treatment or outpatient tailored programs designed to address the unique needs of high-functioning alcoholics, providing medical supervision during the withdrawal process and equipping them with coping strategies for maintaining sobriety. These facilities often employ a multidisciplinary approach, combining medical treatment, psychological counseling, and behavioral therapy to address the complex nature of addiction. The programs may include individual therapy sessions, group therapy, educational workshops on addiction, and relapse prevention planning. In addition to traditional treatment methods, some facilities offer holistic therapies such as meditation, yoga, and art therapy, recognizing the importance of treating the whole person. The Importance Of Mental Health Resources Recognizing that alcoholism is not solely a physical dependency but also a mental health problem is crucial. Access to more mental health resources, including therapy and counseling, can help individuals address underlying issues contributing to their alcohol use and develop healthier coping mechanisms. These resources are vital in treating the emotional and psychological aspects of alcoholism, which often include stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders that may co-occur with substance abuse. By providing a supportive environment for open discussion about mental health, individuals can gain insights into the emotional triggers that lead to drinking and learn new strategies for managing these triggers. Therapy can also assist in repairing relationships damaged by alcohol abuse, rebuilding trust, and improving communication skills. In addition, counseling can offer guidance on how to establish a balanced life. You can set achievable goals and create a supportive network that fosters their long-term recovery. Treatment programs need to integrate mental health services as a core component of addiction recovery, called dual diagnosis treatment. This integration ensures that individuals receive a holistic approach to their treatment, addressing all facets of their well-being. As society continues to destigmatize mental health issues, the hope is that more people will feel empowered to seek the help they need without fear of judgment or stigma. Ultimately, enhancing the availability and accessibility of mental health resources is a critical step in supporting the recovery journey of functioning alcoholics. Their lasting sobriety helps improve their mental health issues. High Functioning Alcoholics: Is There Such A Thing? High-functioning alcoholics can often seem to have it all together, balancing significant responsibilities while battling their addiction in silence. Despite heavy drinking, they are typically individuals who seem to lead productive lives. They often excel in their careers, maintain social relationships, and uphold daily routines. This can make it difficult is difficult for others and sometimes even for the individuals themselves to recognize the problem, as their success often masks the underlying issues. We can help individuals struggling with high-functioning alcoholism by raising awareness and providing support. This will help them regain control of their lives and improve their overall life. How to Help a Colleague (...Who is Also Recovering) Helping someone in recovery from alcoholism is as simple as learning the signs and subtly helping. But remember they are on a journey, not at the destination. Part of that journey includes being open about their lives but not praying too much. A casual “How are you doing today?” can go a long way. Be Responsible Yourself First! Help your co-workers make healthy choices by creating a clean, responsible environment. Don’t go to work events where the primary focus is drinking, and don’t invite them to join if you do. Be mindful of their limits; never encourage or force them to drink more than they feel comfortable with. If they make the choice to leave an event because others are drinking too heavily, offer to accompany them. Find Alternative Activities Encourage them to engage in healthy activities, even if it is during office breaks. You can go for a walk with them at lunch or get involved together in a wellness group at work. Not only do these kinds of activities help alleviate stress, but they also give your colleague something positive to focus their energy on. Plus, showing that you’re willing to invest in their well-being as professionally appropriate helps build a stronger working relationship between the two of you and gives them an added source of support while they recover. Do not Get Too Personal But still, you need to draw the line and not become too personal with them. You should only keep any conversations limited to work-related topics unless they would like to share them with you. Be mindful of their personal space as well because, in the end, it is their own recovery. Supporting a colleague in recovering from alcoholism requires empathy, respect, and understanding. By being a supportive colleague, you help to not only nurture their recovery but also help foster an inclusive and compassionate workplace. Remember, it’s the little things that mean a lot. Conclusion It’s crucial to understand that high-functioning alcoholism is a real and serious condition. When you acknowledge its existence, you take the first step towards addressing the unique challenges it presents. With the right resources and support systems, you can improve functioning alcoholic individuals to live a life free from alcohol. You can find them the help they need to recover from alcohol dependency. Therefore, you need to know about functional alcoholism and identify functional alcoholic individuals. Read Also: How 12-Step Works As Addiction Recovery Support Addiction Treatment: 11 Tips To Find The Best Rehabilitation Center
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Polydrug Use: What Happens When You Mix Cocaine with Heroin?
Cocaine and heroin are among the most potent and extensively used illicit drugs in the world with deeply addictive and destructive potential. When we think of these drugs, we usually think of individuals having either cocaine or heroin addiction, whereas in reality the practice of taking more than one substance at the same time - known as polydrug use - is on the rise. Individuals typically start polydrug use by combining substances to enhance the effects of one or both of them. A very common combination of drugs in polydrug use is cocaine and heroin and in fact, the practice has become so widespread that it now has its own street name: "speedballing." When speedballing, polydrug users take heroin to extend and enhance cocaine’s short-term effects to avoid the crashing come down, essentially by replacing it with opiate-induced euphoria. The Health Risks of Speed Balling with Cocaine and Heroin: Although the effects of speedballing are extremely pleasurable and compelling to users, it is incredibly dangerous. Both heroin and cocaine have significant health risks separately but when used in combination and injected at the same time, these risks are heightened considerably. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and depending on the US state studied, around 36.9% to 98.9% of heroin-related deaths involve other substances. There are few activities in life that have the potential to be more deadly than speedballing and yet it is now a significant issue. Young people experimenting with substances are increasingly being encouraged to participate in speedballing without being fully aware of the risks. Let’s take a look at the differences between cocaine and heroin when used on their own: Heroin: Heroin is made from an extract of the opium poppy and it has been used for hundreds of years as pain relief for significant trauma. The way heroin works are by flooding the brain with euphoria-creating dopamine so as to “trick” the mind into ignoring pain signals from other parts of the body. The euphoria created by heroin is considered the reason it is highly addictive, as it immobilizes the body in the most pleasant way so that the only thing a user can do is lay back and enjoy the feeling. One of the most common ways people develop heroin addiction is by becoming tolerant to its effects, which can happen very quickly after they start using the drug. When the euphoria they seek starts to wane when taking their usual amount of the drug, they will simply up the dose. After a very short while of this addictive behavior, the body will start to develop cravings for heroin every time the user comes down from their high. Some of the withdrawal symptoms emerging if cravings for heroin are not satisfied can be extremely unpleasant and so more of the drug is needed to make them go away. Cocaine: The kind of high cocaine creates depends on the way it’s taken, which is generally by snorting or injecting. The effects of cocaine are generally short-term, lasting around 40 minutes and they are quite opposite to those of heroin. Cocaine is a stimulant that makes users feel a rush of energy, often making them the life and soul of the party. Whereas heroin immobilizes, cocaine stimulates and while on a high from the drug, users tend to talk at a fast pace, enjoying everything around them in an animated way. Cocaine is equally as addictive as heroin although it has a very different kind of appeal. Some people become socially dependent on the drug before going on to developing an addiction, using cocaine as a prop to boost confidence. However, as with heroin, cocaine has a negative impact on the brain's function, which can introduce extra challenges for people seeking to overcome cocaine addiction in heroin and cocaine addiction treatment. The risks caused by speedballing with cocaine and heroin include the following: Whereas heroin stimulates the brain’s production of endorphins, cocaine prevents them from being reabsorbed naturally. This eventually erodes an individual’s ability to enjoy the simplest pleasures in life unless substance abuse is involved. Cocaine is the only drug with the potential to hyper-stimulate the body to the point where the user suffers a stroke. When used in combination in heroin, it is not possible to detect that this is happening and there is a risk of suffering a stroke without any warning and possible death. The effects of cocaine do not last for as long as heroin and so speedballers tend to use more cocaine to prolong their high. This is incredibly dangerous and places the individual at risk of a fatal heart attack. Heroin has a powerful effect on the central nervous system, slowing down its functions when a person is under influence including the heartbeat and breathing. If there is not enough oxygen reaching the brain because a person’s breathing has become shallow after taking heroin, there is a high risk of brain damage or death. Because cocaine is a stimulant, it reduces some of the effects of heroin if taken at the same time. This can mask the warning signs of heroin overdose which include: confusion, dizziness, slurred speech, body limpness, and unconsciousness. Cocaine and Heroin Addiction Treatment for Speed Balling: Addiction is an illness that can be treated so that individuals can move on from substance abuse and enjoy a life in sobriety. Although challenging, the path through detox, rehab, and recovery on a cocaine or heroin addiction treatment program introduces individuals to a world outside of substance use, motivating them to make the necessary changes to overcome their illness. Because of the potency of heroin and cocaine independently, people speedballing face significantly more risks from substance abuse than those abusing one type of drug. The effects on a person's personality, behavior, and psychological state can be extended with both substances which is why holistic therapies such as those offered at the best heroin and cocaine addiction treatment centers are now commonly available as a cocaine and heroin addiction treatment approach. Through learning skills such as meditation and yoga or becoming physically fit through a structured exercise regime, individuals can move on from the difficulties in their lives cause by heroin and cocaine addiction. Read Also: How 12-Step Works As Addiction Recovery Support Addiction Treatment: 11 Tips To Find The Best Rehabilitation Center
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Teenage Eating Disorder Treatment FAQ
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect people of all ages, genders, and races. However, they typically develop in early adolescence. Families searching for the best eating disorder treatment centers should take great care to understand the different types of eating disorders and the treatment options available. At Clementine, we specialize in teenage eating disorders treatment, offering patients access to care in a comfortable, safe and home-like setting. Keep reading to learn more about common eating disorders and eating disorder recovery options. What is an eating disorder? Eating disorders are very serious mental health conditions that include both medical and psychiatric aspects. The most well-known eating disorders include anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. However, people can develop other types of eating disorders, including binge eating disorder and eating disorder not otherwise specified. People who have an eating disorder are typically obsessed with food, their body shape, weight and body image. If left untreated, eating disorders can quickly become very serious and even life-threatening. Who can develop an eating disorder? People of all genders and nearly any age can develop an eating disorder. Research has shown children as young as five or six years of age can develop an eating disorder. While it is true females are more commonly diagnosed than males and individuals typically show signs of an eating disorder in adolescence, many people develop eating disorders later in adulthood. Current studies suggest up to seven percent of women in the United States have had bulimia nervosa at some point in their lives. Anorexia nervosa is the third most common chronic illness among teen girls and binge eating disorder affects anywhere from 0.7 percent to 4 percent of the general population. It is important to remember eating disorder treatment is available. Can people be cured with eating disorder treatment? Many people with eating disorders can achieve recovery. Early intervention and finding the right eating disorder treatment centers to fit an individual's needs are extremely important when seeking professional help. It is also important to keep in mind patients who have been through an eating disorder recovery program may continue to seek counseling to support and protect their recovery for months or years after leaving treatment. The chance of relapse greatly diminishes when teens have access to aftercare and a strong support system at home. If a loved one is intentionally vomiting after meals but only some of the time, should parents be worried? Yes. Anytime someone feels the need to purge after a meal, whether that means fasting, self-induced vomiting or laxative use, they are likely dealing with underlying psychological issues surrounding food, their body shape, and weight. While this does not necessarily mean they have a diagnosable eating disorder, it is important for loved ones to express concern. What is the difference between overeating and binge eating? Many people will overeat every now and then. However, those with binge eating disorder feel out of control during the binge episode. They typically eat large amounts of food in a very short amount of time, even, at times when they are not physically hungry. The binge eating episodes can also be accompanied by feelings of shame, guilt, anxiety, and disgust. Contact Clementine Eating Disorder Treatment Centers Today: At Clementine eating disorder treatment centers, we focus on providing adolescents with the tools they need to enjoy a successful eating disorder recovery. We understand teenage eating disorders treatment should be approached from both a medical, psychiatric, therapeutic and nutritional perspectives to ensure young people can properly navigate the challenges of life after completing treatment. Read Also: 4 Reasons Why Food Handling Training Is Important Meals That Matter: The Best Foods And The Ways They Make You Fit
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The Role Of Nutrition Therapy In Eating Disorder Treatment
Eating disorders are severe medical disorders with high mortality rates. In fact, anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any mental illness. People with eating disorders are at risk for serious health consequences such as heart, kidney and brain damage. Individuals with eating disorders, including anorexia, also see a high incidence of suicide. Finding the right eating disorders counseling and treatment is essential to prevent these serious health consequences. Eating treatment centers should always include nutritional counseling as a treatment component for eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa. Nutrition Therapy in Eating Disorder Treatment. Eating disorders are complex diseases, and similar to other chronic illnesses, require a multi-faceted treatment approach. There may be a variety of professionals on the eating disorder recovery treatment team, including a psychotherapist, medical doctor, psychiatrist, and dietitian. Different Ways You Can Use Nutrition Therapy In Eating Disorder Treatment There are multiple ways you can use nutrition therapy in eating disorder treatment. Work out the best diet disorder plan that can work well in your favor in all possible manners. Do not make your choices in the wrong way while you develop your business. 1.Nutritional Strategy and a Better Relationship with Food The role of nutritional therapy is important when it comes to eating disorder recovery. The dietitian works with the client to help them adopt a more flexible relationship with food and movement. Most clients with eating disorders have excellent nutritional knowledge. Many patients are more knowledgeable than the general public about how many grams of carbohydrates or calories a portion of food may have. They have the education needed to make good eating choices. However, a person who has an eating disorder generally has imposed strict and rigid guidelines on themselves about what they can or cannot eat. They learn to disregard their bodies’ internal hunger cues and avoid the feelings of hunger or satiety. Preoccupation with food stands in the way of mindful eating. 2. Nutritional Therapy Nourishes The Body Nutritional therapy helps the person learn how to nourish their bodies, with a focus on increasing awareness of and responding to internal hunger cues using mindful eating practices. Nutritional therapy is about taking a flexible approach to food intake and developing a sustainable relationship with food. Nutritional therapy can also help clients learn about various medical complications that may be associated with eating disorders, such as electrolyte imbalances. It can also help them recognize the symptoms of these serious health issues and gain greater awareness of how to get help for these issues. 3. Applying These Lessons in Real Life Many people with eating disorders find it overwhelming to eat in social situations. Eating disorder therapy helps clients address the social anxiety that may accompany eating disorders, by learning how to manage emotions in difficult or triggering situations. Nutritional therapy teaches clients to acknowledge the emotional aspects of eating while respecting their physical hunger cues. They learn to pay attention to what is happening at the moment without emotionally reacting to it. Nutrition therapy in eating disorder treatment can make things easier for you to digest. 4. Develop Mindful Eating Patterns When someone is in recovery from an eating disorder, developing mindful eating patterns takes time and practice. Eating disorder therapy uses individualized meal plans to help the person achieve the goals set by the client and his or her treatment team. Specialized treatment provides support to clients during mealtimes as they overcome personal challenges and work toward the goal of becoming fully recovered. Clients are gradually exposed to more challenging exposures as they progress through treatment. 5. Make Eating Dis-order Counselling With the help of eating disorder counseling and nutritional therapy, clients are taught the coping skills necessary to sustain their health by eating nourishing foods. They will learn to participate in social situations that involve food and overcome the anxiety and fear that can occur with mealtimes. Eating treatment centers help clients develop the skills needed to prepare simple balanced meals and mindfully respond to physical hunger cues. Final Take Away Hence, these are some of the effective means to develop your eating habits. Nutrition therapy in eating disorder treatment can make things more complicated for you. Do not make your choices in the wrong order while you want to develop your eating habits in the correct order. Do not make your choices in the wrong manner while you want to improve your daily diet system in the correct order. Read Also: 5 Ways You Can Be Inhibiting Your Fitness Stay Away From These Foods To Remain Healthy
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How 12-Step Works as Addiction Recovery Support?
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), around 74% of inpatient drug rehab centers in America are based on the 12-Step approach. 12-Step is a philosophy pioneered by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) in the 1930s that has strong foundations in Christianity. The objective of 12-Step recovery programs is to enable people to achieve and maintain sobriety through the support of others and their belief in a higher power. In many respects, the 12-Step movement has been shown to be a force for good which is why it remains one of the most popular choices for addiction recovery support in the world. 12-Step treatment centers are not for everyone, particularly if they do not subscribe to any particular religion and their needs can be addressed by a wide range of alternative inpatient drug rehab centers that do not have religious components. However, in this article, we want to take a closer look at traditional 12-Step in terms of what it offers people with addiction illness and how the world's oldest recovery support system works. The History of the 12-Step Program: The principles of 12-Step treatment centers were designed in 1938 by Bill Wilson, who based the concept on his own experiences and understanding of alcoholism. In particular, Wilson had seen how positively people struggling with alcohol responded when sharing their stories and experiences with others. In the early days of 12-Step’s history, Wilson put his program into writing into what is now known as the Big Book. 12-Step rehab centers originate from the Christian view of spirituality and are designed to provide encouragement for participants to seek help from a higher power than themselves. Although the Big Book was originally intended for people who did not want to attend meetings, it has since become a model for all NA and AA meetings around the world. Offshoots of 12-Step treatment centers now include Heroin Anonymous (HA) and Gamblers Anonymous (GA). These days, members are expected to “work through” the steps using the Big Book for reference. How 12-Step Approach Works: 12-Step rehab centers are designed to allow people to support each other in achieving and maintaining sobriety while calling on their higher power for help. This is done through meetings in which members share their experiences, talking through difficult issues and congratulating successes. According to the journal Addiction Research and Theories, the kind of abstinence practice 12-Step is based on often accounts for high levels of positive mental health or "flourishing." A particular benefit of 12-Step is that it provides a structured framework from which people can surrender their addiction, process the experience and move on from it for improved mental health. An article by Psych Central suggests that following the 12-Step model arms members with the following tools for mental and emotional transformation: Being able to recognize and admit that the individual has addiction issues Surrendering to this fact and deciding to seek control with outer guidance Developing self-awareness of addictive behaviors and how they impact others Practicing self-restraint and building self-esteem Achieving self-acceptance and being able to make positive changes Having compassion for those affected by the individual’s addiction and others who are struggling with substance abuse Through providing members with these experiences and tools, 12-Step can promote significant changes, helping individuals seeking to overcome addiction find a path to sobriety. The 12 Steps, as outlined in the original Big Book are as follows: The admission that the individual is powerless over their addiction The belief that a higher power can help overcome addiction Making the decision to surrender control to the higher power Making a personal inventory Admission to the higher power, themselves and another trusted person the wrongs that were done through addiction Being prepared for the higher power to correct shortcomings in character Asking the higher power for help in removing shortcomings Listing the wrongs done to others and preparing to make amends Connecting with all those hurt by addictive behavior to make things right unless it is detrimental to the person to do so Maintaining a personal inventory and admitting when the person is in the wrong Seeking enlightenment from the higher power through prayer and meditation Sharing the 12-Step mess with others in need of support Although there is no “one size fits all” approach to addiction treatment, the efficacy of 12-Step is undeniable. The main reason for the program’s success is that it focuses on providing mutual support as a means of achieving and maintain sobriety. The 12-Step recovery program shifts focus from the individual and their addiction to the group as a whole, with members bound together by a common spirituality and a shared desire to live a substance-free life. Read Also: What Are The Symptoms Of Cocaine Addiction And Can It Be Treated? What’s It Like In A Drug Recovery Center?
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Everything you Need to Know About Term Insurance Plan Premium
Term insurance plan is a type of insurance policy that offers pure life protection to the family of the insured in case of an uncertain demise of the insured person. This is the most basic kind of insurance policy that you can opt for. The premium amount on the term plan is also the lowest as compared to other life insurance policies. What Is A Term Insurance Policy? The term insurance policy offers life coverage for a specific period of time to the family of the policyholder in case of any eventuality. In case the policyholder expires within the tenure of the policy then the nominees get the sum assured amount. If the policyholder, however, survives all through the term plan and the policy expires then no maturity benefit is offered to the policyholder. The term plan is designed in such a way that it protects the family financially in case of the policy holder’s death. The online term plan is also for a set period of time. There is no wealth creation or investment benefit when you invest in a term plan. Term Insurance Plan Offers an Affordable Premium Rate: The offline/ online term insurance plans offer the lowest premium as compared to the other kinds of insurance policies. This is because the plan has no investment component attached to it and it is pure life protection. So in case, the policyholder expires during the policy term then the nominees will get the benefit. However, the term plan has no survival maturity benefit. This makes the term plan different from the other insurance policies that offer a maturity benefit to the policyholder in case the policyholder survives the entire tenure of the policy. How Is The Premium Of The Online Term Plan Calculated? Term insurance is basically a contract that the policyholder and the insurance company get into. The insurance company agrees to financially protect you and your loved ones in case of any eventuality within the policy term. In return for this security, you pay a premium amount to the insurance company. Having an online term plan is a great idea and should be apart of your financial plan. Life is unpredictable and your family could get into a big financial crunch if you leave them without any financial backup. Thus if you are not financially secure then your family could be in big trouble. If you leave without insurance then you may leave your family in big debt and thus you need to make it a priority to protect your family in every possible way. The term insurance plan is simple and the most economical way in which you can insure your life. The insurance plan lets you to financially secure your loved ones even when you are not around. Terminsuranceplansattract a premium amount and thus you need to know first what decides the premium amount that you pay towards the term insurance policy. The Term Plan Premium: The premium of an online term insurance policy is calculated based on some simple aspects. This is the premium rate which is multiplied with the coverage amount that you have chosen. Mathematics and statistics are used to decide the premium rates. The risk is calculated to determine what the term premium is. The risk is basically how likely you are to place a claim. The lower is the risk attached to you the lower is the term insurance policy premium rate. Factors That Affect the Term Insurance Premium Rate: The insurer determines the premium amount based on the various factors when you apply to buy a term insurance plan. Your age Age is one of the most important factors that determine the premium amount of the online term plan. The older you are the more is the premium amount that you will have to pay. This is because as you age you are a higher risk to the insurance company and the chances that you will be claiming the insurance amount is high. This is why it is advised that you get the term insurance plan when you are young. Gender It is studied that women have a higher life expectancy than men. The insurance companies feel that women are less likely to die and thus they are charged a lesser online term plan premium than men of the same age. This is why the premium that is charged for men is higher than that for women. Job profile What your occupation also determines the online term plan premium amount that you will pay. There are some job profiles that are high risk as per the insurer and thus you will have to shell out a huge premium if you are working in any of those profiles. Those that are in some dangerous professions like an army, pilot, etc. have a higher premium rate than those who work in safe working conditions. Geography Where you stay also plays a very vital role in deciding the premium amount. Those places that are less prone to disaster charge you less premium than those places where natural calamities could charge anytime. This includes places that are prone to earthquakes or hurricanes. BMI Your body mass index is calculated by the insurance company. If you are overweight then you are likely to suffer from medical conditions like heart diseases and thus you will be paying a higher premium towards the life insurance policy. Smoking Smokers have a lower life expectancy and thus if you smoke then get ready to shell out extra towards the term insurance policy. This is because smokers have a high probability of having cancer and lung disorders. The cost of premiums can vary more wildly for smokers than non-smokers, so it is even more important to compare quotes. You could use a comparison website or a regulated broker such as Reassured. Alcohol If you drink a lot then you could be prone to health problems related to alcohol. This is something that is considered when calculating your insurance premium. Medical history Your past medical state is also considered to calculate the premium amount. If you have ever suffered from illness in the past then this could cause the life insurance premium to increase. Also if your family member had some life-threatening disease at an early age then this could cause you to pay a higher premium towards the term insurance plan. This is because you are likely to get affected by the same disease at a later stage in your life. Adventure Sports If you are into adventure sports then you are likely to die having met with an accident. If you are too much involved in adventure sports then the premium charged to you will be higher. Other factors There are many other factors that could affect the premium that you pay towards term insurance policies. This includes your travel history, marital status and whether you have chosen for an additional rider. Every factor of your life determines how much premium you will be paying towards an insurance policy. It is important that you declare them all when buying a term insurance policy. There is no point keeping the insurer in the dark because in case they get to know about it after then they would reject the claim. Thus your whole purpose of having a term insurance plan in the first place gets nullified. How Much Premium Do You Need To Pay Towards Your Term Insurance Plan? If you are wondering how much premium you would have to pay towards your term insurance plan then here you go. You could use a term insurance premium calculator that will be available for you to use for free on the website. All that you will have to do is to key in some details required and this will calculate the premium amount for you. How much insurance coverage you will need is dependent on your age mostly. You need to add your present income and multiply it roughly with 15 and then add any of the outstanding debts or loans to it. This will give you an approximate amount of the coverage that you need. This just gives you an approximate amount. You will also have to figure out the premium based on your retirement age, present age, inflation, liabilities that are existing and other needs. It is important that you consider the information and put in as much information as required and accurately you can come up with the most approximate figure. Some of the details that will be required when you use the online calculator are your name and age, purchase year, tax liability, date of birth, gender, total coverage amount, etc. You can use the term insurance premium calculator to get a rough amount of premium that will be charged towards your term insurance plan. Choosing the Best Term Insurance Plan- Term Insurance Comparison It could be a little tricky to decide on the best term insurance plan. You need to keep the following things in mind to make an informed choice. The reputation of the insurance company Coverage required The claim settlement ratio of the company Factors that could affect the coverage Terms and conditions associated with different companies Online or offline term insurance plan purchase. All these will let you decide on the term insurance premium calculator on the best term insurance plan for your needs. The premium of the term insurance plan is comparatively lower than any other insurance plan that offers life coverage. It is however advised that you buy a term plan because it offers higher life coverage for a very low premium amount. Read Also: 5 Must-Have Long-Term Goals For A Secure Future 10 Estate Planning Tips To Help You Prepare For The End
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5 Steps to Accelerate the Growth of Your Startup
There are a tremendous amount of obstacles that new businesses face. Statistics say that only three percent of startups make it past five years. Preparation is paramount to growing any business. When developing a startup, you must focus on practically every facet of the company to ascertain whether you are operating to maximum efficiency. Here we will discuss five keys to accelerating the growth of your startup. 1. Find the Right Team Members: Recruitment is the cornerstone of building any business. Businesses often fail due to trying to make the team with members that are not adequately suited for either the position they are holding, or they are just not right for the team altogether. A thorough and modernized recruitment procedure should be incorporated by your organization. When scouting for fresh talent, there are a host of recruitment models to choose from. Recruitment process software can also help simplify the process. 2. Create a Culture of Success: Every company has its own internal culture. This happens whether it is intentional or accidental. A culture based around success instills a shared mindset among your team. This is done by creating realistic goals and acknowledging the accomplishments of your team members. Eventually, there becomes an expectation of success that is shared by the entire staff. 3. Stick to the Plan: Establish a solid plan for your business. In the past, it was almost a requirement that businesses had some sort of business plan. With the advent of online companies, businesses often start with little more than a website and email. The 97 percent of startups that fail within the first five years almost surely were operating without a comprehensive business plan or realistic projections. 4. Research Competition: How well do you know your competition? It is common for companies to fail to conduct a thorough investigation into the business practices of their competitors. This process begins by looking at the strongest competitors in your industry, and reverse engineering their branding and marketing campaigns to see what is making them so successful. Conducting this type of research on a few of your competitors will give you a strong foundation to study. 5. Incorporate a Customer Management System: It can be extremely challenging to track manual transactions. It can be a logistical nightmare trying to keep track of sales as your business starts to grow. Customer management systems allow for smooth scaling of companies that rapidly accelerate. There is no shortage of customer management platforms to choose from. Conclusion: It should be evident at this point that preparation and planning are tremendously crucial to accelerating the growth of a startup company. Take an objective look at your company and identify what your brand truly stands for. Identifying your target demographic also helps direct your efforts. Remain aware of how effective (or not) your plan-of-action is. This can be a quarterly evaluation of effectiveness or something less structured that will keep things current. Sticking to a plan that is not working is also a surefire way to fail. Read Also: Top 5 Types Of Startup Business Loans 7 Startup Ideas For Young Entrepreneurs
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11 Foods You Must Incorporate Into Your Diet for Great Skin
Acne affects up to a whopping 50 million Americans every year. That's already bad news, but the list of skin problems doesn't end there. There's also atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and yes, aging skin. The good news is, you can prevent or at least minimize your risks for such problems. One of these is through using the best skin care products in the market. Another is through seeking the help of skin care experts. At the end of the day though, having great skin has a lot to do with your own personal skin care regimen. That, and loading up on foods proven helpful for skin health. The good news is, Mother Nature has given us access to so many of these foods. We've rounded up 11 of the best foods that can give you that younger, healthier skin you've always wanted. 1. Avocado: Great news, since almost all of us love avocados. We love it so much that the average American eats about seven pounds of it a year! But what's even better aside from its rich and creamy flavor is that it's loaded with great things for the skin. Vitamin A -- check. Vitamin D -- check. Vitamin E-check. All that and more, avocados can give you and your skin. It's more of a question of what it doesn't, really. It's particularly rich in Vitamin E that helps with hydration and overall skin nutrition. It's rich in fats and phytonutrients, giving the fruit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Researchers have also found avocado oil to have collagen-increasing properties. Another study even found it to have potent antimicrobial effects! We can go on and on about avocado's benefits for the skin, but you get the gist. Plenty more reason to gobble up guacamole! 2. Berries: Who doesn't love strawberry or blueberry cheesecake? Here's another great reason to love these fruits: their skin protecting benefits! Plus, there are plenty of other choices, all of which are lip-smacking. There are the goji, blackberry, and raspberry variants. These fruits may be small, but they pack a punch when it comes to dealing with free radicals. They contain loads of antioxidants, helping kill toxic elements that damage cells. They also supply you with a good dose of Vitamin C to boost your skin's collagen levels. Note though that the darker their color, the better they are for your health (and your skin). But helping reduce signs of skin aging (like wrinkles) isn't berries' only benefit. Their ellagic acid content may also have sun-damage protecting features. A separate study even found they may even boost heart health and brain power! Either way, all those are some berry awesome news, don't you think? 3. Broccoli: For the longest time, Broccoli has been a superpower food. After all, its many health benefits are all scientifically-proven. It can help with detoxification, deal with inflammations, and boost Vitamin D levels. What makes it particularly amazing for the skin is its glucoraphanin content. This phytochemical helps repair skin damage and improve overall skin health. It also helps prevent UV damage that can wreak havoc to your skin. When the body converts this into sulforaphane, it can even act as a preventive agent for cancers! That includes skin cancer, as well as breast, colon, and stomach cancers among many others. So, do what your mom told you. Eat your vegetables, particularly these amazing green florets. Speaking of which, here are a few tips to have your kids eat veggies too. 4. Dark Chocolate: Need more reason to indulge in dark chocolate? Well, how about scientific evidence that they're great for your skin? In one study, participants consumed high flavanol cocoa for six to 12 weeks. They reported an increase in their skin's moisturization level. They also said their skin felt thicker, smoother, and all in all, healthier. A separate study also supports other findings on dark cocoa's skin protective properties. The keyword here is dark, so make sure you know your chocolates. It's best you stick to the dark kind that contains at least 70% cocoa. 5. Fatty Fish: What if we told you there's a way on how to have better skin while also boosting heart health? You can also add lower blood pressure to that list. What we're referring to is loading up on fatty fish! There's the rich, buttery, and great-tasting salmon for starters. For meal variation, you can go with herring and mackerel too. Either way, these fishes contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. They may sound quite unhealthy, but it's exactly the opposite. For instance, you need these fatty acids for the health of your skin. They're especially helpful for keeping your skin hydrated and supple. If you don't eat enough of these fats, your skin may end up becoming dry and scaly. Also, omega-3 fats can help with acne management. These fatty acids help minimize inflammation after all. As such, they make a great addition to the list of must-have ingredients for the best diet for acne. Pro Tip: If you have serious breakouts, consider professional skin care services. Check out MyBotoxLA for services such as facials and skin care treatments. 6. Green Tea: Knowing about the many skin benefits of green tea is one way to drink less soda. Unlike soda that's linked to so many health conditions, green tea is far healthier. For starters, this tea boasts high amounts of catechins. It's one of the plant's primary health-beneficial compounds. Studies like this have shown them to have powerful antioxidant functions. As you know by now, antioxidants protect your skin against damage from UV exposure. The sun's UV rays are notorious for premature skin aging, so drinking green tea may help prevent that. Here's another reason: It can help moisturize your skin! In a three-month study, women who drank green tea reported skin health improvements. These include better skin hydration, less roughness, and greater elasticity. A friendly reminder though: You may want to think twice about splashing some milk in your tea. Granted, further studies have yet to answer the question, "Is dairy bad for your skin?". But existing research found that dairy products may further irritate acne. 7. Kale: Kale is much like broccoli, although it's a relatively new addition to superfoods. It delivers pretty much the same benefits, including helping the body's collagen synthesis. That's many thanks to the high Vitamin C content of the vegetable. Plus, a cup of this contains the same amount of absorbable calcium you'll get with one cup of cow milk. That makes it a much better source for calcium, especially if you're worried about dairy and acne. 8. Nuts: We're not saying you should go nuts every time you eat walnuts or almonds. Even only a handful of them can already bring benefits from their high Vitamin E content. They also contain selenium, another powerful antioxidant. All these, plus their zinc and omega-3 fatty content, make nuts a great skin health booster. These nutrients help keep your skin taut and tight by raising collagen levels. Plus, they're great sources of fiber, helping improve bowel movement. 9. Tofu: Have you ever wondered how women from Southeast Asia (like the Japanese), have amazing skin? Well, it may have something to do with their love of tofu, or soy, in general. First off, tofu's rich in calcium, Vitamin E, and protein (for skin cell production and regeneration). It also contains soy isoflavones, which have shown to increase collagen fibers. Another study also reported that isoflavones may reduce skin wrinkling and discoloration. So, consider adding tofu to your diet. It may give you back that youthful, glowing skin you've had in your younger years. 10. Tomatoes: Who doesn't want clearer skin? Almost all, if not everyone wants glowing, smooth skin, and eating more tomatoes may help. One reason is that of these red fruits' lycopene content. You may have heard of this compound's potential cancer-fighting properties. But lycopene has other skin benefits too, thanks to its antioxidant properties. That includes boosting the skin's protection against the sun's damaging UV rays. Furthermore, it helps minimize damage due to UV exposure. Researchers have also found tomatoes to help with skin cell replacement. 11. Watercress: Watercress' leaves may be smaller than your usual greens, but it's packed with skin benefits. It's vitamin-rich, starting with a high Vitamin A content. It also contains three types of Vitamin B, as well as Vitamins C, E, and K. Those vitamins alone make it a great source for antioxidants that help protect the skin. Researchers also say that watercress consumption may even reduce cancer risks. Combining a Healthy Diet with Proper Skin Care for Great Skin: These are only 11 of the superfoods you should stock up on to have great skin. But, they're some of the best ones that you should incorporate in your healthy meals ASAP. Don't forget that personal hygiene and proper skin care also affect skin health! So, be sure you combine all three for that glorious looking skin. Of course, it also doesn't hurt to visit skin care specialists from time to time. Want more insider info on health, fitness, and food? Then make sure you pay our blog's Lifestyle section a visit! Read Also: Foods To Eat On A Low-Carb Ketogenic Diet 10 Foods For Vibrant, Glowing And Younger Skin
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How Quickly Can I Install a Sunroom?
With fall already here, and winter fast approaching, there’s a certain urgency in the air to get any sunroom installation project booked, planned, paid for, and complete as soon as possible. Fortunately, a fall installation in Calgary is a relatively quick process, with your beautiful install sunroom being completed somewhere between 4 and 10 days once the plans have been finalized and approved. The actual speed of the project will depend on the results of the multiple decisions you have to make, which include the following: Different Ways You Can Quickly Install Sunroom 3 or 4 season sunroom - this is the big factor in how long your project will take to install, and how much it will cost you in the long run. A 3 season room will be cheaper and quicker as there are less insulation, thinner windows, and the frame is usually made from aluminum. A 4 season room requires the room to be able to handle the Calgary winter conditions, so the walls have to be thicker, the windows double-paned and a heating option has to be built in and vented. You can install sunroom in your home. Wall thickness – the thickness of your walls is coupled with the number of seasons, but also how you plan on heating the room. Thinner walls with no insulation will rely on the sun on and thicker windows to keep your room warm, while thicker walls will take longer to install sunroom but provide room for internal insulation options. A number of windows – it’s possible to build a sunroom that has almost solid glass walls and the visual effect of these rooms are incredible. However, they take a much longer time to install as each piece has to be put into place manually and there’s no scope for external pre-fabrication. In this decision, you’ll also need to think about the number and shape of your skylights, and a general rule of thumb is that the more you have, the longer the installation process. Roof shape – there are two choices here; a studio roof, which is flat and literally sits across the top of your sunroom, or a gabled A-frame roof. The latter requires more time to install as the roofers will need to construct the A-frame, attach it to the walls and then add your chosen shingles or cladding to the roof structure. A studio roof often comes as one or two pieces that can be installed in under a day. You have to install sunroom in a better way. Kick plates – the final decision that has a bearing on the length of time for your sunroom installation project is whether to have kick plates at the bottom. The general industry recommendation is that if the room is more than 24 inches above the ground, then kick plates will provide the cover you need. Otherwise, a solid bottom will do the job and is much less costly. Install sunroom in your home for a better experience. Final Take Away When you make these decisions, you will want to consider the impact they will have on the amount of time it will take for the construction, but also how they will impact the look and feel of your new sunroom. Read Also: How To Set Up Your Baby’s Room 5 Innovative Ideas To Lend Your Bedroom With More Space
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When Will Social Media Addiction Be Considered a Mental Health Condition?
Digital addiction is not a bona fide medical term - yet - but we are getting closer. The 11th edition of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), released this June by the World Health Organization has introduced "Gaming disorder" as a true mental health condition. It has three categories - predominantly online, predominantly offline, and "unspecified" that covers pretty much every other disorder related to video games. Thus, video game addiction has officially become a mental health condition that can be diagnosed and treated by medical professionals. What will be next? Well, one of the things that might make it into the next edition of the IDC is social media addiction, a phenomenon increasingly discussed by medical professionals all over the world. What is social media addiction? Today, communication is done mainly through digital channels - especially social networks like Facebook and its Messenger app, Instagram, Twitter, Reddit, Snapchat, and many others. Aside from allowing people to keep in contact and up-to-date with the things their friends and acquaintances do, these digital channels also create a sense of belonging among their users. But just like with any other product out there, moderation is key. Excessive use of social media is known to have a negative impact on the health and well-being of users. And the young - usually, they are the most enthusiastic about new services and technologies - are the most exposed to these negative effects. A number of studies have been conducted to assess how excessive social media use affects the health of users. Many of them have reached the same conclusion - excessive social media use is associated with several psychological problems, ranging from depression and anxiety to ADHD and even addiction. This affects a minority of individuals but the effects are undeniable. Smartphone rehab and digital detox: The problem is big enough to prompt some in-depth studies and even treatment programs on the matter. A study conducted last year in the United Kingdom shows that kids as young as 12 have an issue maintaining a good balance between their "real" life and their digital one. At the same time, kids as young as 13 are reportedly being treated for "digital technology addiction" in the United States. There are "smartphone rehab" centers in many cities, offering recovery programs for teens unable to keep their use of digital devices under control. Sooner rather than later, excessive digital technology and social media use will be defined as a genuine mental disorder and be treated as such. Until then, be sure to be a good example for your kids, reduce your phone use, and schedule "tech-free" activities to keep phone use at bay. Read Also: Smartphone Addiction In Our Era How Smartphone Tracking Programs Assist Parents In Controlling Their Children
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How Does Structural Fire Protection Work?
If you’ve ever lost sleep over the idea of your home or commercial property catching fire, the chances are that you’re not alone. Make no mistake; this is a truly devastating prospect and one that could carry an immeasurable human and financial cost. In the case of a commercial fire, there’s also a wider range of consequences in terms of your business and the people that you employ. Even if the fire occurs when the structure is empty, the cost of repairing the damage could be seismic while a number of jobs could be lost within a relatively short period of time. With this in mind, structural fire protection is absolutely crucial to the safety of your premises and the people who work within it. Here’s a breakdown of structural fire protection and the purpose that it serves: An Introduction to Passive Fire Protection (PFP) and Structural Fire Protection: At the heart of this concept is Passive Fire Protection (PFP), which includes four main items and areas of safeguarding. The first and most important of these is Structural Fire Protection, which has essentially been designed to introduce measures that protect structural components such as steel and join systems from the effects of fire. But how exactly do these measures work? It’s partially accomplished through the use of a fireproofing material, while another option is for developers to prioritise the application of concrete throughout the build wherever possible. In terms of materials, there’s a host of options at the disposal of developers and building professionals. The most widely used include endothermic materials such as gypsum-based plasters and cementitious products, such as those sold extensively through suppliers such as CCF. These materials play an integral role in modern construction, as they help to minimise the damage caused by fire while also enabling developers to comply with contemporary building regulations. What Role Does Structural Fire Protection Play in PFP? Along with the use of core fire-stopping materials that aim to minimise the spread of fire across barriers, structural protection materials provide preventative measures that stop blazes from gaining momentum from the moment that they start. These work comfortably alongside compartmentation measures, which are included as the second part of the current PFP legislation. These measures include fire barriers, partitions, firewalls, and smoke alarms, which are deployed widely throughout commercial buildings and across an array of strategic locations. The role of these barriers is clear, as they combine to alert people to the presence of a fire while preventing it from spreading quickly within a short space of time. Sprinklers may also be included as part of these measures, although these work quickly to neutralise fires when they start in specific locations. This represents an extremely effective preventative measure, particularly in the case of small or accidental fires that have not been exacerbated by an accelerant. Read Also: Pre-Opening Inspections On Residential Buildings 5 Ways A Home Maintenance Plan Can Prevent Disaster
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3 of the Most Luxurious Accessories Found in Cars
While the new car market in the UK plummeted by more than 20% during September, experts believe that this is the result of ongoing Brexit uncertainty rather than any long-term trends relating to supply and demand. Overall, 338,834 vehicles were registered last month in the UK, with this number having declined by an estimated 87,000 on last years’ figures. It’s also important to note that used car sales are not declining at the same rate, with outlets such as Romans International offering high-end vehicles at a discounted rate. If you do by a nice car at a reduced price, however, you may want to spend a little of the money that you save on luxurious and high-tech accessories. If this is the case, here are a few ideas to help whet your appetite: 1. The Fobo Tyre Plus System: As a general rule, tyres that have been properly inflated are thought to wear more evenly than those that have not. With this in mind, remotely monitoring the pressure of your tyres can help you to optimise their lifespan while providing an often necessary boost to fuel efficiency. This is where the Fobo Tyre Plus System comes into play, as this innovation leverages a series of Bluetooth gauges that relay measure real-time pressure and relay this data directly to your smartphone. It will also send you instant alerts in instances where your tyre pressure drops to a specified level, enabling you to attend to this issue before it becomes a significant problem. 2.The Garmin Dash Cam 65W: A dash cam is always an exceptional tool for determining fault following a car accident, and there’s a number of products on the market that can meet this need. Our pick is the high-end Garmin Dash Cam 65W, which is capable of capturing images in clear 1080p video and exceptionally high quality. This device also saves the video footage upon impact, while it also enables you to record your GPS location to highlight precisely when and where the incident occurred. This device not only keeps you safe, but it can also protect your interests from an insurance perspective if an accident does occur. The device also has additional uses too, including the capability to create time-lapse videos when traversing scenic areas. 3. The PZ-1600 Parking Assistant: Parking remains a major bug-bear for drivers, who often have to manoeuvre their vehicles into small and relatively constricted spaces. To help you negate this issue, you should consider investing in the PZ-1600 Parking Assistant. This accessory helps you to optimize space and prevent you from parking in a spot that forces you to continually touch bumpers with another vehicle. Thanks to its simple traffic signal display, the PZ-1600 tool alerts you when you’ve pulled up far enough without the need for you to attempt any dangerous guesswork. Read Also: How Accessible Is Your Dealership’s Website? Calculate your Term Loan with the Help of Online Calculator
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