CADCA Broadcast Explores Impact of Stress on Substance Abuse

March 15, 2007

All of us have stress in our lives, but stress means different things to different people and causes varying reactions. While some can handle life stresses internally, others look for something to make them feel better—such as drugs and alcohol. Scientific research has shown a strong link between stress and substance abuse and it´s also one of the most powerful triggers for relapse, even after long periods in recovery. During an hour-long broadcast hosted by CADCA, experts will discuss the brain´s response to stress and the link between stress and substance abuse.

Stress-Induced Substance Abuse will be held on March 29, 2007 from 1-2 p.m. EST.

The broadcast will feature leading experts in the fields of substance abuse research and treatment, and mental health, including:

• Doctor William Shoemaker, Associate Professor of Psychiatry, University of Connecticut. He has many years of experience researching the effects of alcohol and other drugs on the brain and how stress often triggers drug use.

• Kay Daughty, Vice President of Family and Community Services, Operation PAR, Pinellas Park, FL

• Bert Bauer, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Pathways New Learning Center, Atlanta, GA; and recently retired from the Army Reserve Command after 40 years of military service, where he provided mental health services to the active duty military.

• Edward Carlson, Executive Director, Odyssey House Louisiana

• John King, Executive Director, Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse for Greater New Orleans


During the broadcast, panelists will discuss why stress may lead to substance abuse and how the brain responds to stressful situations or events. See how rates of alcohol and drug abuse increase after traumatic events such as military service, terrorist attacks, and natural disasters. Hear first-hand how many people struggling with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina are looking for stress relief, often in dangerous ways, and find out how to identify who is at risk and see what treatment options work.

The broadcast will be webcast live at www.MCTFT.com and www.cadca.org. It can also be viewed at no cost from any site with a satellite dish having C-band downlink capabilities. All viewing sites must register in advance to receive the necessary satellite coordinates. To register, contact Ed Kronholm at 877-820-0305 or dlnets@aol.com. To register online, visit: www.dlnets.com/MCTFT2nd.htm.

CDontributor: Don Phillips