Human Physiology and Addiction: Why Anyone Can Become a Substance Abuser

Many people live under the assumption that they are not susceptible to addiction, and that substance abuse only afflicts the weak-willed and morally degenerate. Negative stereotypes of alcoholics and drug addicts may contribute to these assumptions. Even many of those who do suffer from addiction deny their problems and continue to view drug dependency as something that only affects “other” people. Addiction is a physiological condition, however, and because humans all share the same basic brain chemistry, anyone can become an addict.

While mental or emotional conditions may lead to an addict’s first use of a substance, a full-blown addiction is a clinical, neurological disease. Just like other clinical diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes, addiction can afflict anybody. The physiological processes that take a person from casual use to tolerance, to dependence are the same for everyone. Here are the steps a person’s brain takes in developing an addiction:

Dopamine Release

Most drugs cause the human brain to release dopamine, a neurotransmitter which creates a euphoric sensation, relieves pain, and provides a sense of well-being. Dopamine is part of the same feedback mechanism which compels humans to seek food, sex, and most other pleasurable things. When a person has an experience that leads to a dopamine release, the brain creates physical, neurological pathways which compel similar behavior in the future. Unfortunately, this happens even when that experience is as harmful as drug use.

Tolerance

Users may be compelled by their neurological pathways to continue taking a drug, but they will eventually develop a tolerance to it. In its attempts to mitigate the effects of a foreign substance, a frequent user’s body will down-regulate its dopamine production in response to a given drug. Therefore, that user must take higher and higher amounts to feel the same euphoric effect. A chemically altered brain still seeks that powerful euphoria, however, so a cycle of ever-higher dosage sets in.

Dependence

Though the human body at first “fights” a drug by developing a tolerance, brain chemistry will eventually change. If the use of a drug is repeated frequently enough, the central nervous system begins to accept it. Dopamine production is again down-regulated, and the brain now relies on the drug to stimulate certain receptors necessary for normal bodily functioning. In fact, the brain of a drug user at this stage actually starts to perform “normally” while under the influence of the foreign substance. Removing the drug from the body shocks the brain and leads to strong compulsions for the drug.

Addiction

What many people call a full-blow addiction is simply a severe case of dependence, characterized by certain behaviors. Addicts constantly crave drugs to the point that they lose control of when and where they get high, and they will ignore the physical, social, and emotional consequences of their abuse.

Relapse

Since addiction is a permanent neurological condition, relapse is common and even expected among recovering drug abusers. Many addicts struggle through seemingly endless cycles of drug use, intensive treatments, and relapse. People who have never experienced an addiction may view relapse as a sign of weak will, but it far more akin to the often unpreventable relapses experienced by cancer patients.

Everyone from every walk of life is susceptible to drug and alcohol addiction. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse, make the decision to confront the problem and seek help. Click the links below for a toll-free, confidential consultation with one of our trained specialists. We are standing by around the clock to help you.

Seniors Mental Health & Depression

A majority of men and women from the ages of 55-74 report they are satisfied with their lives and are currently in good health. While periods of depression may occur among seniors, it is important to remember that it is not a normal part of aging.

Depression is the most common mental health concern for older adults, affecting between 15 to 20 percent of older adults living in the community. It is not a normal part of aging. Symptoms such as decreased energy, poor sleep and preoccupation with health problems should be viewed as possible symptoms of a treatable illness and are NOT a result of the aging process.

Treatment for depression works, yet too many people remain undiagnosed and untreated because they don’t recognize the signs and symptoms of depression.

Mental health specialists generally agree on the following definition of major depression:

Symptoms persist for two weeks or longer
People either have depressed moods or seem unable to enjoy life.
Major depression should be considered if four of the following seven criteria are present:
A change in sleeping habits (more or less than usual)
A change in eating habits or weigh
Low energy or fatigue
Trouble concentrating
Feeling worthless or excessively guilty
Marked restlessness or slowed-down movements
Thoughts of death or suicide

Depression can be defined as an imbalance of brain chemicals triggered by stress and life events, including biological, psychological and social factors.

Depression is NOT a character or personality flaw.

Many of the signs of depression may also indicate other problems or medical conditions – It is important to consult with a doctor to determine if your symptoms indicate depression or another medical condition.

Depression is often difficult to recognize among the senior population and it tends to be under diagnosed.

Living with depression not only prevents older adult from fully enjoying their lives but it puts a strain upon their health, which can lead to other medical concerns. It is also very difficult for their caregivers and places a strain on their health as well.

What we do know is that there is no one cause for depression- every individual is unique in what may cause their depression, and what may trigger a depressive episode. Some possible causes and risk factors include genetics and family history, brain chemistry, personality, major illness, medications & alcohol, and life events. Risk factors for serious depression, particularly in older adults, may include loss and bereavement, lack of social support, isolation, living in poverty, being a caregiver, and abuse.

Having depression could also increase the risk of suicide among older adults, particularly in older males. According to the CDC, seniors account for more than 16% of all suicide deaths. Older adults who are over the age of 60 are far more likely to have a higher risk rate of suicide than younger people. If you feel that a friend or a loved one is suicidal, encourage them to seek out help either from a doctor, friend, crisis centre or, mental health agency.

Some things to keep in mind:

Keep a positive attitude. Remember that slowing down does not mean you have to come to a complete stop. Chances are you will still be able to do almost all the things you used to; you may just need to take a little more time and learn to pace yourself.
See your family doctor regularly. He/she can, then, deal with any changes or symptoms that require medical attention.
Be careful about your medications. As you get older, they may begin to interact differently with other drugs and to affect you differently than before. Make sure your doctor knows about all your medications, even those prescribed by another doctor.
Take responsibility for your own health. Do not hesitate to ask your doctor questions; some do not offer explanations unless asked.

Depression is a serious disorder that is treatable. In addition, dealing with an individual who is suffering from depression or at risk of suicide can be absolutely overwhelming for a caregiver. Although the caregiver is providing care and assistance to their loved ones they must also look after their own emotional, mental, and physical well-being.

While all of us may feel sad from time to time, sadness is not depression and it is important to remember that depression is not a normal part of aging.

How to Spot the Symptoms of Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome

To make a lasting recovery, drug addicts need to understand and be able to recognize the symptoms of Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome, or PAWS. Though PAWS is responsible for more relapses and failed recoveries than any other condition, most treatment facilities and rehabilitation programs do little to mitigate its frustrating and crippling effects on recovering addicts. PAWS symptoms are normal and even expected for addicts who have completed detoxification and overcome the obstacles of their initial withdrawal. However, the ways in which addicts experience these symptoms are highly individual, so it can be difficult to clinicians and patients to recognize exactly when they occur. To maintain clean and sober lives, recovering substance abusers must learn to constantly self-reflect and monitor their behavior patterns for signs of this dangerous condition.

PAWS typically sets in as soon as addicts complete detoxification. Detox is a painful but necessary five to fourteen-day process of purging their bodies of drugs. The symptoms can affect the bodies, intellects, and emotions of its sufferers, and they range from mild to severe. They can even cause addicts to abusively self-medicate in an effort to relieve their pain, thereby continuing their cycles of addiction. Some of the most common symptoms are as follows:

Physical Problems:

Those familiar with PAWS often refer to its sufferers as “dry drunks” because of their apparent lack of motor skills. The visible, physiological symptoms of this condition include impaired balance, poor depth perception, and chronic dizziness. Even when they are still sober, recovering addicts with PAWS may stagger and stumble as they walk, speak with slurred speech, or have trouble seeing properly. These problems often make an addict’s recovery more stressful, as many people who observe these symptoms assume him or her to still be actively using.

Mental Impairments:

Although the physical signs of PAWS are the most easily recognizable, many recovering addicts say that the mental aspects of the condition are the worst. People coming out of detoxification often experience difficulties thinking clearly or performing simple mental tasks. An addict may feel constantly cluttered and disorganized, and these feelings can lead to panic and an utter inability to deal with daily stressors. Compounded, these symptoms can make it extremely difficult for PAWS sufferers to positively engage their treatments and establish new, drug-free lives.

Emotional Difficulties:

PAWS endangers many recovering addicts with its emotional symptoms. Many sufferers have reported severe depression and even suicidal thoughts. However, many of the same people have also reported emotional numbness. These kinds of severe mood swings produce damaging thought patterns which can make it nearly impossible for patients to take advantage of their treatments. Reality-based therapies, in particular, rely on recovering addicts’ abilities to engage other people in emotionally productive ways and form meaningful relationships.

For drug addicts to make lasting recoveries, Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome treatment needs to begin immediately after detox, but it also needs to continue for the rest of their lives. Most of the symptoms are reduced or gone completely after a few months, but some have been known to last for years. Good rehabilitation centers will therefore provide support groups, additional counseling, and other forms of ongoing therapy for addicts who have completed their initial treatments.

Men And Mental Health

Having a good state of mind is often a great asset in life, helping to overcome difficulty and challenges. But as time goes by, stress and difficulties come along and may try to test our view of the world. A positive disposition of a man can be broken by events like divorce, death of family members, or even becoming a father and starting a family. Nowadays, men are usually aware of how to prevent mental health disorders. They will try some simple steps like getting enough sleep, exercising, getting social support and having healthy ways to deal with stress. However, bad mental health for men is being called a silent crisis that has sneaked into the minds of millions of men.

Researches show that men are struggling with being open about mental health issues because men are less likely to seek help than women. Usually, men are typically shy concerning health and they may try to deal with their problems through self-medication, drinking alcohol, using drugs and becoming angry. Some men have unique issues regarding mental health. Researchers also estimated that at least six million men suffer from depression, which is an increasing issue each year in the United States and this depression may lead to suicide attempts. However, women attempt more suicides each year but men are more successful in suicides because the methods used by men are more definite. Some young and middle-aged men are hospitalized because of schizophrenia which is a severe mental health disorder for men with symptoms of emotional instability and detachment from reality.

Depression in men can often be traced from cultural expectations of the male role. Men are more successful than women and they must restrict their emotions and must know how to control themselves. Male depression is often attributed to issues of self-criticism. Sexual abuse are two powerful words with powerful implications. Sexual abuse in men can lead to mental illness complications. Men who are sexually abused experience masculine inadequacy and some may also become confused about their sexual orientation. Social and economic changes have affected family structure and have redefined the role of men within the home and it will cause a big impact to the mental wellbeing of men.

Men are likely to view partners and friends as a primary health sources. Men also tend to focus more on physical problems and less on deeper emotional issues. Knowing this is only the first step in overcoming these kinds of health illnesses. There must be a greater understanding in mental illnesses for men and it must be taken seriously.

Remember that there is a way out of these types of mental issues and do not think that you are alone, you have your family and friends, which you can share and lean on about your problems. There are also available treatments and proper medication so that you can begin to feel better and start a new beginning. Keep in mind that if you have a mental health problem get help and treatment immediately.

Substance Abuse Treatment – The Importance Of Getting Help

Substance abuse comes in all forms and types, if someone you know is affected by it; they are going to need substance abuse treatment. Just as substance abuse come in all forms and types, so do treatment options. It is important to find the best one for that particular person and their needs. Finding a customized treatment program will ensure that they get the most out of the program that is available to them. It is important to have their needs and addiction analyzed to fit them.

If someone you know needs help with their substance abuse, they need to start with an interventionist. An intervention specialist will help the person abusing realize that they have a problem, and help them through options that they can embark on for treatment. There are many different substance abuse treatment programs that an interventionist may be able to help point someone in the direction of what is going to work best for them.

Whether basic treatment is needed through a support group like Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous or something more serious like outpatient or inpatient treatments there are so many options. To find out which one will work the best, it is time to weigh all the options. Each treatment option includes all kinds of different services. If the person is relatively strong willed and independent, they will need a completely different option than someone that is deep in the wrath of drug abuse and addiction, their personality and needs is very important to assessing their treatment options. A professional that can understand their situation will be best in setting up a treatment plan that will be successful.

Substance abuse is not something that should be left untreated. Untreated, it can lead to many severe health issues including death. Substance abuse is not something to take lightly, and should always be treated as a serious condition. Don’t let someone you loved be ruined by drugs and their effects, there are great treatments that will help people get better and live their lives to the fullest again. Be sure to consult with a professional to find great substance abuse treatment options.

The Main Thing Is to Keep the Main Thing, the Main Thing!

What an eye catching statement! In June, I made a retreat at the Benedictine Monastery in Norfolk under the direction of Fr. Richard Gielow, CM, a Vincentian priest from Independence, Missouri. The theme of this retreat was to keep the main thing, the main thing. The fact that he was a chaplain for the Chicago Bears surely wasn’t!

If we were offering a retreat and had such a sign posted, what would you expect it to say? I think it all depends on where you are on your journey of life. I’m sure for any of us it would be different, depending on whether you just arrived or had years of sobriety!

A common denominator would surely have something to do with our relationship with God or a Higher Power. In my years, I have found that the person who says, “I don’t believe in God.” has caused me the most concern, frustration and fear for the person because I believe Faith is a gift and we can either accept it or reject it.

It makes me think of the little book called “When God Winks at You” by Squire Rushnell. Chaplain James Leadabrand discovered this book at Dollar General and often refers people to this book.

Anyway, I’d like to present this question for your reflection. What do you think the most important thing is in your life? Is it sobriety? Is it Steps 1-2-3 where you admit that you are not God, there is a God and we need to surrender our wills to God daily? Or might it be prayer, in which we seek to know God’s Will for us?

So when Fr. Richard said there are ten prayers that God always answers, I got my pen into fast action and took notes on what he said. He said God always says “Yes” to these requests: (I added on how we do this.)

1. “Show me you exist!”..We might need the “God Winks” book to help us see God working in our lives
2. “Make me an instrument”..as is suggested on page 99 in 12 x 12 book.
3. “Out do me in generosity,” as is implied in the Third Step prayer.
4. “Get me through this suffering”…as I pray “Thy Will be done.”
5. “Forgive me.”.. as we pray in the Lord’s Prayer.
6. “Give me courage.” As requested in the Serenity Prayer.
7. “Give me wisdom”…as we meditate from the 24 Hour Book.
8. “Give me peace.” As we keep on praying the Serenity Prayer.”
9. “Get me through this bad situation.” As we reflect on “Footprints in the Sand.”
10. “Lead me to my destiny.”..as we end the Prayer of St. Francis and ask that we be born to eternal life.

Granted, prayer doesn’t mean we just ask for things, it means a genuine relationship with a Loving Being who wants us to know that we are all called to be a Beloved in eternal life! Does this seem too difficult for someone who probably suffered from their addiction so long that they struggle having any hope for the future? I recall what one my mentors, Kaye C., told us to share with such folks. Tell them:

1. “Don’t drink or drug!”
2. “Pray!”
3. “Go to Meetings and talk!”

On the last day of retreat, Fr. Richard said the greatest compliment we could receive would be for someone to say, “I know God is alive because of you. Wow! Could this be the main thing I am called to do? To give Hope to others longing to be called a Beloved by our Creator?

Domestic Violence and Substance Abuse Treatment

Every 15 seconds a woman is subjected to domestic violence in the United States. Domestic violence can be defined as a pattern of abusive behavior that is used to gain or maintain power and control in an intimate relationship, such as marriage, dating, family, friendship or living together. Anyone can be a victim or perpetrator of domestic violence.

Keeping this in mind, we will be focusing on male batterers and female survivors of domestic violence since this is the “typical” scenario and will be seen most often in treatment facilities. We will discuss substance abuse in both the batterer and the survivor.

When most people think of the relationship between substance abuse and domestic violence they picture an alcoholic husband beating his wife, and while this is one case, it is most certainly not the only. This case suggests a direct correlation between substance abuse and the occurrence of domestic violence. However, most studies show that while they are linked the relationship is not that straightforward.

The problem with directly linking the two issues together is similar to problems in dealing with co-occurring disorders (dual diagnosis) in that the question that is most often debated is which one came first, the drinking or the violence. Even though according to the U.S. Department of Justice study reports that 61% of domestic violence offenders also have substance abuse problems, we must remember that the violence may not necessarily be a consequence of the substance abuse and that the substance abuse could be a result of the violence. However, as with co-occurring disorders, it is imperative that we address both issues and not focus too much which came first.

Substance abuse in the batterer is what most people will think about when substance abuse and domestic violence are mentioned together so we will discuss this first. The characteristics of a batterer are very similar to the characteristics and risk factors you would find in substance abusers. These characteristics include: witnessing parental violence, parental substance abuse, corporal punishment, depression, socioeconomic hardships and an intense need for power and control.

Despite the difficulty of finding an exact cause and effect relationship between substance abuse and domestic violence, experts have organized batterers into three categories in order to improve their treatment. The first category is “Typical Batterers”. Typical batterers are characterized by keeping the violence they inflict in the home, which will be less severe when compared to other batterers, and are usually not substance abusers. They will also most likely have no history of legal troubles, mental illness and will usually be remorseful for the violence. The second category is “Antisocial Batterers”.

The characteristics of the antisocial batterer include being extremely abusive, having some mental health issues, may be a substance abuser and will most likely have difficulty completing domestic violence program without being provided additional services. The third category is “Sociopathic Batterers”. The characteristics of a sociopathic batterer include being the most extremely violent, heavy substance abuse, tremendous difficulties in treatment programs, little or no empathy for others, no remorse for the violence inflicted and the most likely of the three categories to have had legal issues.

Treatment for a batterer with a substance abuse problem can be much more difficult than the already difficult treatment for a person with just a drug or alcohol addiction problem. The most common model for batterer intervention is the Duluth Model. The Duluth Model is a behavioral change model that seeks to alter the batterer’s behavior by confronting his denial, his need for power and control and helping him realize his alternatives to the violent behavior. This model is a community-wide model that involves many people including law enforcement which ensures that the batterer will be arrested while the survivor is protected.

Like I said above, when most people think of substance abuse and domestic violence they only think of the addiction in the batterer. However, survivors of domestic violence are also likely to present in treatment programs with drug or alcohol problems. In fact, in 2002, the Department of Justice reported that 36% of survivors in domestic violence programs also had substance abuse problems.

Again, there is no direct cause and effect relationship between a survivor’s addiction and the domestic violence although it is commonly thought that the violence increases the likelihood that a survivor will abuse alcohol or drugs. While this may not be the case for all survivors with drug or alcohol problems, both the domestic violence and the addiction have an extreme impact on the survivor’s recovery from both and the treatment provider needs to be aware of this.

When a client presents for substance abuse treatment and reports a history of domestic violence, especially a recent history, there are several steps that a treatment provider should follow. First, the provider should make sure that the client is in a safe environment and that they understand that while they are at the facility they are safe. Second, the provider should never doubt the survivor’s story, even if there are discrepancies. If a client feels they cannot trust the counselor or provider they will leave treatment and put themselves back in dangerous situations. Finally, during the assessment the provider should identify the client’s options and the perceived benefits and consequences with each option and then have the client work on a safety plan. This will involve the client and make them feel involved in their treatment and encourage them to stay and feel as though they can accomplish their goals. One of the most important things to remember when working with survivors is that their safety, both physical and emotional, is the most important obstacle in the initial stages of treatment to be addressed. If it is not addressed immediately the likelihood of the client staying in treatment is very low.

Domestic violence and substance abuse are separately two of the most devastating issues in American society today, but combined they are significantly worse and more attention needs to be paid to the relationship and treatment of the two. It is vital to properly screen and assess clients as soon as they present for substance abuse treatment so the next steps of the treatment provider will be the correct ones. There are many resources available on domestic violence and addiction including SAMHSA TIP 25, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the Tennessee Association of Alcohol, Drug & other Addiction Services, and Women’s Rural Advocacy Programs.

Classes of Drug Addiction Programs and Treatments

Those who have never encountered addiction firsthand typically have no idea what goes on at rehabilitation facilities. Most laypeople are unaware of the various programs and therapies which medical professional have successfully use to treat addicts. Television, movies, and other popular media often depict celebrities’ rehab programs, but these are almost always unrepresentative of average addicts’ treatments. In fact, these unrealistic portrayals of rehabilitation often contribute to the negative stereotypes of substance abusers.

Addiction is a complex, clinical disease, and its successful treatment requires tremendous efforts on the parts of rehab clinicians and patients alike. Rehab specialists devise individualized plans for addicts which involve the use of many traditional, proven treatment strategies. These treatments include:

Evidence-Based Therapy

Though many people don’t take the clinical nature of addiction seriously, the United States government has put significant resources into testing substance abuse treatments. Methods which have been rigorously tested, quantifiably verified, and government-mandated are commonly referred to as evidence-based practices. These therapies are typically the primary focus at rehab clinics.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Clinicians using cognitive-behavioral techniques teach their patients that their unhappiness, frustration, and anger are results of their negative thought patterns. By learning to control their thoughts and emotions, addicts can change their mental and emotional outlooks on difficult situations. Ultimately, positive outlooks lead to productive behaviors which can help keep recovering addicts from returning to drugs or alcohol.

Biofeedback Therapy

An active drug addict will often ignore signs of bodily degradation as he focuses solely on his next high. After addicts undergo detoxification and withdrawal, they may still have compromised abilities to recognize physical stressors. Rehab centers use biofeedback therapies to address this problem. They teach recovering addicts how to monitor their bodies for signs of physical stress, signs which may be indicative of a future relapse. By understanding the way their bodies respond to stress while drug-free, addicts can avoid returning to substance abuse.

Reality Therapy

Reality therapy’s main purpose is to teach addicts the difference between situations they can control and situations they cannot control. By understanding the difference, substance abusers can take appropriate action to positively control their environments. Clinicians help addicts apply this mindset to their interpersonal relationships, in particular. Patients can form and foster essential bonds with other people by recognizing their roles in relationships and controlling their actions in a positive way.

In addition, reality therapy encourages a connection between patients’ therapies within rehab clinics and their drug-free lives post-treatment. By shopping, cleaning, cooking, and performing other daily tasks in the same environments as their treatments take place, rehab patients facilitate their transitions into their future, drug-free lives.

All of these therapies can take place in different settings. The three main settings most rehab centers use are:

Individual counseling sessions: Addicts meet with their therapists to discuss their behaviors and thought patterns and uncover the root causes of their problems. They may also discover co-occurring conditions such as depression or mania, which must be treated for lasting recoveries.

Group Therapies: Rehab patients meet in groups to share their experiences and give one another advice and coping strategies.

Family Counseling: Family members attend counseling sessions with addicts. A family may discuss ways in which an addict has hurt them all, but they also focus on improving relationships to support the recovery process.

To learn more about these strategies and how they can help you or a loved one recover from addiction, click one of the links at the bottom of your screen. Our counselors are standing by for your toll-free consultation

Substance abuse: life threatening habit

Addictions can be of varied types. Some of the addictions could be using drugs like hash, cocaine etc, some addicts use medicines which have soothing and relaxing effect on mind and body like oxycontin etc., some of the people follow the most easily accessible addictive, alcohol. Alcohol addiction begins as social habit, which eventually turns into an addiction. People suffer on personal as well as professional front due to addiction. Basically, addiction means physical and psychological dependence on substance that are psychoactive. These substances get beyond the brain and blood barrier after they are ingested into the body. Their grasp is so effective, that the person actually gets under their influence and cannot control own activities.

These substances alter the chemical environment in the brain.

Once the brain gets influenced by the secretion of chemical substances from the drugs, activities get automatically influenced. A person gets completely influenced by these psychoactive substances. An addiction is not always substance related, there are various types of addictions such as compulsive shopping, compulsive cleanliness etc. A compulsive repetitive activity can also be tagged as addiction. It is well described in one of the online encyclopedias that, in a non substantive addiction a recurring compulsion by an individual to engage in some specific activity, is observed, despite harmful consequences, as deemed by the user himself to his individual health, mental state, or social life.

Adderall (adderrall) is an amphetamine.Adderall abuse is one of the problems majorly faced by the youth. This is a drug used mainly for more concentration. It is commonly prescribed by the physicians to those students who face problems due to lack of concentration. It is a study drug, many have nick- named it as “college crack”. Students who take Adderall for studying report that they can concentrate on their books for hours at a time, and can then do better on the subsequent exam than they would without the drug.

This drug helps in increasing the concentration levels, which help the students in studies mainly. But the addiction of this drug does not limit itself to the youth only; it has spread its impact among the adults as well. Cutting off the supply of this drug may turn into more dangerous. It is always recommended to seek help of the experts in this matter. The withdrawal symptoms are mental depression, nausea or vomiting, stomach cramps or pain, trembling, unusual tiredness or weakness.

Male Depression and Mental Health

The So You Think You Can Write Online Contest – Official Rules

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By participating, entrants agree to the Official Rules and Terms of Use and agree to accept and be bound by the decisions of HubPages Inc. which shall be final and binding.

GENERAL CONDITIONS:

HubPages Inc., in its sole discretion, reserves the right to disqualify any person who tampers or is suspected of tampering with the entry process or who is otherwise in violation of the Official Rules and void all associated entries. CAUTION; ANY ATTEMPT BY AN ENTRANT TO DELIBERATELY DAMAGE ANY WEBSITE OR UNDERMINE THE LEGITIMATE OPERATION OF THE CONTEST IS A VIOLATION OF CRIMINAL AND CIVIL LAWS AND SHOULD SUCH AN ATTEMPT BE MADE, HUBPAGES INC RESERVES THE RIGHT TO SEEK DAMAGES AND OR OTHER RELIEF FROM ANY SUCH ENTRANT TO THE FULLEST EXTENT OF THE LAW.

If, for any reason, the contest is not capable of running as planned, including infection by a computer virus, bugs, tampering, unauthorized, intervention, fraud, technical failures, human intervention, technical, human or other error, or any causes beyond the control of HubPages Inc. which corrupt or affect the administration, security fairness, integrity, or proper conduct of this contest, HubPages Inc. reserves the right at its sole discretion to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the contest. In the event of cancellation or termination, HubPages Inc. reserves the right to select the winner for the Awarding impacted from among all eligible entries received prior to termination or cancellation. In no event will HubPages Inc. be responsible or liable for more than the number of prizes stated herein.

All federal, state and local taxes associated with the acceptance of the prize, are solely the responsibility of the winner.

No substitution or transfer of prizes permitted. This contest will be governed by the laws of the State of California. Any and all legal actions or claims arising in connection with this giveaway must be brought in the State or Federal Courts in San Francisco, California.

By participating in the giveaway, each participant agrees to release and hold HubPages Inc. and its employees, officers, directors, shareholders, agents, representatives, its parent companies, affiliates, subsidiaries, advertising, promotion, and fulfillment agencies, and legal advisors, harmless from any and all losses, damages, rights, claims and actions of any kind in connection with the sweepstakes or resulting from acceptance, possession, or use of any prize.