Bill 123-36

After nearly a year, the Guam Legislature moved Bill 123-36 into its third reading file. Bill 123-36 will remove all reemployment rights of employees who resign their position subsequent to the announcement of any government-sponsored drug testing. If you or a loved one is struggling with drug addiction, reach out for help.

Drug Addiction

What does drug addiction mean?

Drug addiction means that a person is using drugs despite knowing that it will harm them. Drug addiction has many different forms, from the classic “recreational” use of drugs to people who are using drugs to cope with serious mental health issues. For some people, drugs can become an all-consuming, destructive force.

The good news is that there are many treatment options available. If you or someone you care about requires help, please reach out to the following agencies:

Drug & Alcohol Treatment

Suite. 105F J&G Commercial Center, Hagatna, Guam 96910

Contact: (671)475-5440 or (671)647-5438

Lighthouse Recovery Center (Salvation Army) for men

Phone: 1-671-477-7671

Fax: 1-671-477-4649

Oasis Empowerment Center for women

Address: 556 E Marine Corps Dr, Hagåtña, Guam 96910, United States

Phone: +1 671 646 4601

The bad news is that drugs are extremely harmful. They cause changes in the brain that make it harder to think straight. Drugs can also cause changes in the body that can be fatal. The effects of long-term drug use can lead to a wide range of problems, including:

• physical dependence: withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit, which can include shaking, sweating, nausea, insomnia, and headaches.
• tolerance: the need to use more drugs to get the same effect.
• addiction: an uncontrollable desire to use drugs.
• overdose: a dangerous or fatal overdose of drugs.

If you are addicted to drugs, please reach out to your healthcare provider. Your doctor can help you to understand the signs of addiction, to identify and overcome any obstacles you may have, and to find the best treatment options.

When someone in your family or friend group is addicted to drugs, you may feel helpless and unsure of what to do. It can be hard to know how to help someone who is addicted. But here are some ways you can support them and their recovery:

• Be honest. Tell them that you know they are using drugs.
• Be supportive. Don’t be afraid to say that you care.
• Encourage them to seek help.
• Give them the support they need to stay clean.
• If they decide to quit, offer to be there for them.