13430 N Scottsdale Rd Suite 206, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
+1.480.809.6230

THE ATHLETE

Professional athletes endure a great deal of physical and emotional stress throughout the course of their careers. Whether it’s the wear and tear on their bodies that guides them toward painkiller abuse or the pressures of performance expectation that leads them to alcohol and drug addiction, the professional athlete remains more vulnerable to chemical dependency than those in many other professions. The Team at AES has developed a comprehensive education and treatment program that addresses the different ways in which professional sports figures fall into substance abuse. Our professional athlete substance abuse education and treatment program is a multi-phase process in which patients receive the help they need to resume their careers and live rich and rewarding lives on and off the playing field.

ARE PROFESSIONAL ATHLETES WIRED FOR ADDICTION?

Among competitive runners and triathletes
More than 50% have compulsive exercise tendencies that mirror addiction.
Training can mimic the biological effects of drug abuse
Leading to withdrawal-like symptoms such as anxiety and depression when the exercise stops.
When athletes get injured or retire
They may feel torn about losing their place in the spotlight. The let-down many athletes experience can bring on unexpected mental health issues.

PROFESSIONAL ATHLETES & DRUG ABUSE: A LONG HISTORY

In 2003
MLB player Tony Gwinn estimated that 50% of players used amphetamines before every game*.
10% of MLB players
Currently have an exemption to use amphetamines due to an ADD diagnosis.
Only 4.4%
Of the general population is estimated to have ADD.
*After MLB began testing for amphetamines, usage decreased significantly, but many players found a loophole by being diagnosed with ADD and receiving an exemption for their use.

THE NFL & PAINKILLERS

4x
Retired NFL players abuse opioid pain medications 4x more than the general population.
35%
Of the retired players abused prescription pain medication during their playing days.
8%
Continue to abuse prescription pain medication (within the past 30 days)

ELEMENTS OF PROFESSIONAL ATHLETE SUBSTANCE ABUSE EDUCATION AND TREATMENT

The Education Program begins with an open discussion either one on one or within a group environment with our team and yours about what to watch out for, what certain substances do to your body when mixed with other substances, the tools that are in the market that can help you from falling victim to your self…….and how to constantly maintain a sense of self awareness. Specific Topics addressed:

Chronic Pain and Painkiller Addiction

Our professionals have specialized experience in working with individuals who suffer from chronic pain and use prescription painkillers to manage their pain-related issues, including their substance abuse disorders which is a vicious cycle. We have specific experience helping athletes deal with the complex variety of issues they may face and teaching/implementing prevention tactics so pitfalls can be potentially avoided.

OTHER TOPICS OUR TEAM WILL ADDRESS

Alcohol

The harmful effects when mixed with other substances

Marijuana

What does it do to the body? Are there harmful effects Im not aware of? What are the legalities that surround consumption in the State Im in when Im using?

Synthetics

Whats currently available in the market. What to look out for. How do you know what your taking? The program also includes depression and trauma treatment, anxiety stress management and anger management.

An Extensive Variety of Treatment Resources

AES works with a nationwide network of full service treatment facilities and Licensed doctors who, if needed, will offer further treatment recommendations based upon the established long-term needs of the patient. Athletes that complete our program and maintain sobriety will also be eligible to become peer counselors through Professional Counselor Certificate training. Peer counselors will be able to follow up with individuals who complete the program. This fosters a sense of accomplishment and an ongoing support network to keep athletes engaged with their peers and their continued recovery.

Please Call

To Speak with our Athlete Liaison