The Edge:  

A Resource for Iowa's Behavioral Health Professionals 

  2012 Edition, Volume 27


Start your work week off right!  Sign up to get a new edition of "The Edge" each Monday morning.
Greetings! 

As you may have noticed, the name of this newscan has remained the same, howeverwe've broadened the content a bit to reach more professionals and to help share information about substance abuse, problem gambling and associated mental health issues. 

We hope you enjoy this first edition of the updated "The Edge: A Resource for Iowa's Behavioral Health Professionals."  The Edge is a weekly media scan that is distributed from the Iowa Substance Abuse Information Center (ISAIC).

If you have articles of value that you'd like to share with others across the state, or feedback regarding the content, format, or method of distribution, please email them to Emily at the address below.

Emily Blomme, ISAIC Program Manager 
blommee@crlibrary.org

Bob Kerksieck, IDPH
 Robert.Kerksieck@idph.iowa.gov

Problem Gambling: 
Noteworthy Articles
 and Studies
 

Is Prevention Keeping Pace with Gaming Expansion?  

Since there will be an incredible array of gambling options in the future, and since that array is somewhat unpredictable, it will be even more important to build "gambling literacy" in the broader public-particularly to prepare young people for the growing range of gambling enticements and opportunities.

 

Young people gambling more than ever before  

The Responsible Gambling Advocacy Centre says nearly 80 per cent of people aged 10 to 24 have participated in some form of gambling and the number of young people with gambling issues is on the rise.

  

Casino ads distort reality to lure in gamblers

People in casino ads smile a lot and they always seem to be cheering a big win. Real people in real casinos spend a lot of time scowling.

 

Gambling Not Only Addiction Risk for Power Players 

The ability of poker players to stay at the table for hours on end is aided in many cases by the use of drugs, according to researchers. 

 
Substance Abuse:
Noteworthy Articles
 and Studies

Opioids' Side Effects and Risk of Addiction Related to Genetics, Twin Study Finds 

A study of twins suggests that genetics plays a major role in whether a person taking opioids is at increased risk of addiction, or will suffer unpleasant side effects from the drugs.  

 

Study Links Prescription Drug Abuse and Depression, Suicidal Thoughts in College Students 

A new study finds college students who use prescription drugs for non-medical purposes are at increased risk of depression and thoughts of suicide.

Virtual expectations: The effect of manipulated Facebook profiles on drinking norms and cognitions in adolescents   With over 900 million active users worldwide (Facebook.com, 2012), Facebook is the dominant social networking site in the world. With the growing influence of Facebook, it is important to understand how content on social networking sites affects adolescents' growth and behavior. This week's DRAM reviews a study exploring the effects of exposure to Facebook profiles containing alcohol cues on adolescents' thoughts and beliefs regarding alcohol use.

Revised Definition of Addiction Could Lead to Millions More Being Diagnosed
The proposed revision to the definition of addiction by mental health specialists could lead to millions of additional people receiving an addiction diagnosis. The changes could lead to big consequences for both health insurers and taxpayers, according to the newspaper.

 
Upcoming Trainings and Materials 

 

ISAIC Training Calendar
Trainings around the state in the field of Behavioral Health, including national webinars and online training
South Dakota Alcohol & Drug Exam Review Training 

To assist individuals in obtaining knowledge that will help in preparation for the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (ICRC) Written Certification Exam and to provide a general overview of alcohol & drug education.  

Registration must be received prior to July 13, 2012, to avoid cancellation of this event.  

 

26th National Conference on Problem Gambling Prevention, Research, Recovery and Treatment   July 13-14, 2012 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Brochure and Conference Information

Problem Gambling 101 -- Online 25 minute training accessible to Iowa providers in partnership with the Indiana Problem Gambling Treatment Resource Network. 

Clinical Supervision for Problem Gambling Treatment Providers 

Supervision is available to professionals outside of NYS for a fee of $15 per session.  Please contact Michelle Hadden at mhadden@nyproblemgambling.org for more information.

 

Did you miss a NCRG Webinar?  You can view archived webinars here.

Interested in getting Certified?  Click to find information about Iowa Problem Gambling Certification  or National Problem Gambling Certification 

ISAIC Problem Gambling Resources and Links
Looking for information and resources about Problem Gambling?  ISAIC can link you to valuable information including publications!  Check it out!



ISAIC Logo- Horizontal.jpg  
Like us on Facebook


Curious about ISAIC, the Substance Abuse and Problem Gambling Library and Information Center?  Not sure what we provide? Click Here!  Do you know how to reserve, order, or check-out items from ISAIC? Use this handy document for step-by-step instructions. ISAIC Search Help 
 
Call us: Toll Free Helpline:  866-242-4111
 
CRPL Logo new.jpg
  A Program of the Cedar Rapids Public Library
            

IDPH Logo.jpg
A service of The Division of Behavioral Health, Office of Problem Gambling Treatment and Prevention