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Dependable, loyal and compassionate are three adjectives I’d use to describe John Hamilton. He is returning for the eighth year as Emcee of NCPSG’s Community Addiction Awareness Vigil. What I like about John is he blends his expertise of three plus decades in the prevention, treatment and recovery world with empathy for those who struggle–be they the loved ones themselves

I recently had a conversation with Joe Feldman, who is the Founder of CoverMyMentalHealth.com and mental health care advocate. While we all know there is supposed “parity” for insurance coverage of mental health and substance use disorders, in practice that is not the case. In our conversation, Joe brought up an important idea that can forestall the agonizing appeals process

Cini Shaw is an amazing person who, like me, has seen tragedy from addiction in her family. She is a person in long-term recovery from substance use disorder, and is the Chief Recovery Officer at The Lighthouse Recovery Services in New Canaan. It is hard for me to keep up with all the qualifications she’s attained and the extensive training

A recent article brought to light the risks of self-medication to address mental health issues. While most people know that benzodiazepines like Xanax purchased on “the street” may contain fentanyl, I was surprised to learn that people are injecting themselves with compounded versions of ketamine for a non-FDA approved indication that has FDA-listed risks. (CLICK HERE for FDA alert.) The

Here are answers to your questions about our New Canaan Vigil on August 29, 2024. Answers to your Frequently Asked Questions: [To track us heading into the Vigil, just go to ncparentsupportgroup.org/news.]

Most good things in life a ephemeral–they last for a period of time and then disappear. Luckily, the memories can remain. I think of that as we plan for Ben Tuff’s visit to New Canaan on August 29, 2024. He will share his story of recovery to all who will listen. His story is an educational one, as it covers

The New Canaan Parent Support Group was founded on the concept that addiction is a family disease —one that affects every member, including parents. Personally, I find immense gratitude in knowing that our support meetings offer a safe, confidential space where parents and families can find community and solace. NCPSG is also based on authenticity and getting real. Too many

I admire how New Canaan as a community has discouraged retail establishments that call themselves “Smoke Shops” and “CBD Stores”. In practice, in cities like Norwalk where illegal THC product is being sold at dozens of stores, a Smoke Shop or CBD Store has the incentive to addict its clientele to generate repeat profits. And the younger the consumer, the

Two more deaths by overdose have taken place, and local family members are devastated by loss. Tragically, a 17-year old New Canaan High School student passed on August 1. Additionally, Vicki of Greenwich was impacted by the loss of her brother Berto Cucci, 28 years young and full of dreams, infectious laughter and unwavering positivity. Need I say that I

Cheryl Bundy, a New Canaan resident, board-certified Chaplain, and Minister at a local church, is an amazing person. She is back for another Vigil helping to lead us during the candelight segment of our 2024 Community Addiction Awareness Vigil. An individual dedicated to personal growth and helping others, she completed her studies and requirements for her Doctorate of Ministry from