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30 Famous Musicians Who Have Battled Drug Addiction and Alcoholism
1. Ozzy Osbourne Rockstar Ozzy Osbourne has long struggled with addiction. In fact, his heavy alcohol and drug abuse led to him being fired from Black Sabbath in 1978. 2. Kurt Cobain Kurt Cobain got to know his wife Courtney Love while they used ...
... , she has “dabbled with drugs.” However, she has endlessly relapsed on drugs and even shaved her head ... epidemic, Elton John was, in his own words, “a drug addict and self-absorbed.” Although he came out HIV-negative, he ... continue reading -
3 Things You Should Never Say to an Addict
If someone you love is addicted to drugs or alcohol, then you're no stranger to heartache and worry. In addition to those feelings, bitterness and disappointment are probably unfortunate staples of your home. Life kind of becomes a pressure cooker; ...
... really loved you- he'd stop taking drugs. Whether your loved one is an active addict, in early recovery, or in the ... frustrating when you're a witness to multiple episodes of relapse. But if you give up on him, it can ... continue reading -
How to Help a Hash Addict
How to Approach a Hash Addict It is extremely difficult to watch loved ones or close friends with any type of addiction continue to engage in potentially destructive behaviors. Many struggle with whether to confront their loved one and how to go ...
... there is a one-on-one communication between the addicted individual and someone who is extremely concerned about him. ... severe drug addictions and those living with toxic environments that increase the risk of relapse. ... continue reading -
How to Help an Ambien Addict
Ambien is a brand name for zolpidem , a medication prescribed for the management of insomnia . A few other formulations of the same medication with differing delivery methods are marketed under the names: Edluar and Intermezzo —Sublingual zolpidem ...
... and addiction . Help for Ambien Addicts People addicted to Ambien alone or in combination ... end use, enter a period of recovery, and avoid future relapse . Sleep hygiene training. Since poor sleep is a motivating factor ... continue reading -
How to Help an Inhalant Addict
What Is Inhalant Abuse? Inhalant abuse can be defined as the intentional inhalation of vapors through sniffing or huffing from chemical products to become intoxicated, or achieve a high. These chemical products are commonly found in everyday ...
... ease of access of these drugs. Am I Addicted to Inhalants? Per the National Institute on Drug Abuse, addiction to inhalants ... skills needed to cope with these triggers, prevent relapse , and live a healthy life of sobriety. ... continue reading -
How to Help a Crystal Meth Addict
What Is Crystal Methamphetamine? Crystal methamphetamine—also known as crystal meth—is a highly addictive white, crystalline drug that can be taken by snorting, smoking, or injecting into the body. The drug also has some common street names, ...
... . Recovery is a lifelong process and most often, multiple relapses are a normal part of the process. Someone in recovery ... can modify the impact of the drug and a person's tendency to become addicted to it. The very intense ... continue reading -
How to Help a Bath Salts Addict
Are Bath Salts Addictive? Bath salts are addictive. The drugs are notoriously known for producing serious side effects that may be damaging from the first hit. They are a synthetic type of cathinone—found in nature in the khat plant. Cathinones ...
... consider treatment if you or a loved one is addicted to this drug. Recovery from abuse and treatment for addiction are ... can go a long way toward preventing relapse . Bath Salts Withdrawal Medications Currently, there ... continue reading -
How to Help a DMT Addict
N, N-Dimethyltryptamine is the chemical name for the drug commonly known as DMT. This potent hallucinogen , sometimes called “Dmitri,” can be synthesized in labs, but it also occurs naturally in several types of South American plants. The ...
... deserve. How to Approach an Addict Suspecting that someone you love has an issue with drug use can be a scary ... learn about substance abuse and techniques to prevent relapse . Family therapy . Including family in the ... continue reading -
How to Help an Ecstasy Addict
Help for Ecstasy Addicts The full name for ecstasy is 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, or MDMA. It is a synthetic drug that has psychoactive effects on users. It is produced and available in many forms. It is similar chemically to the hallucinogen ...
... dangerous side effects in the user. Someone addicted to this drug will often require treatment to stop using ... with cravings and prevent relapse . After initial treatment, many recovering ecstasy addicts find benefit from ... continue reading -
Are You an Enabler? How to Stop Enabling an Addict
What Is an Enabler? Enabling is a term that can be thought of in a positive or negative light, but when we talk about enabling in terms of addiction and recovery, it usually has a negative connotation. When someone is struggling with addiction, an ...
... . Feeling superior or condescending : Treating the addicted person like a child. Justifying their behavior ... person. How to Find Drug or Alcohol Addiction Help Addiction is a chronic, relapsing condition that is often ... continue reading -
How to Help a Meth Addict
Methamphetamine (“meth”) is a substance that has very limited medical use. The drug is only available legally under the name Desoxyn , which is a medication with limited therapeutic application for the treatment of obesity and ADHD. As a ...
... and mental health change or deteriorate as a result of their drug use. If you are worried or nervous about how your loved ... will allow the recovering addict to learn the skills needed to prevent relapse and live a healthy, ... continue reading -
Drugs A-Z
What Is Acamprosate? Acamprosate is thought to help recovering alcoholics stay sober by balancing inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmission. Acamprosate may be combined with behavioral therapy to decrease a person's chances of relapse and ...
... therapy to decrease a person's chances of relapse and continued drinking. What Is Actiq? Actiq ... and how to help an alprazolam addict here. What Is Ambien? Ambien is a brand name of the drug zolpidem. It is commonly used ... continue reading -
How to Help Someone Addicted to Cocaine
Knowing how to help a friend, family member, peer, or coworker with an addiction to cocaine is difficult. Addiction can take a serious toll on relationships, making a conversation about addiction treatment even more challenging. While this type of ...
... concerned that a loved one is either on coke or addicted to cocaine, some of the more common signs and ... other disease. Addiction is widely recognized as a chronic, relapsing disease of the brain. 3 While it may have ... continue reading -
How to Treat MXE Drug Addiction
What Is MXE? Methoxetamine—also known as MXE, M-ket, or Mexxy—is a synthetic drug with effects similar to those of the dissociative anesthetic ketamine . It can be inhaled through the nose , injected , or taken orally. 1 It is, in fact, so ...
... the drug abruptly and begins to experience symptoms like low mood and depressive thoughts. 1 If a person is addicted ... of recovery where a person's risk of relapse is particularly high. Twelve-step facilitation therapy : ... continue reading -
30 Famous Celebrities Who Have Done Drugs and Battled Addiction and Alcoholism
1. Drew Barrymore Former child star Drew Barrymore's drug abuse in her teenage years found her controversial fame, including two trips to rehab that motivated her to get back on track with her career. 2. Mary-Kate Olsen “Full House” actress ...
... . Edie Falco Known for her role as a painkiller addict on “Nurse Jackie,” Edie Falco's own addiction experiences ... and drugs a lot as a young adult. Hoffman relapsed in February 2014 and died from a combined drug ... continue reading -
Advice and Tips for Parents of Addicted Children
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that nearly 1 out of every 4 18-20-year-olds abused an illicit substance in the past month. Furthermore, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association (SAMHSA) found that more than 20 ...
... a priority and is a valuable tool for parents of addicted children. As you attempt to care for your child' ... Institute on Drug Abuse considers addiction to be a long-term condition marked by periods of relapse and recovery ... continue reading -
Signs and Symptoms of Commonly Abused Drugs
When you suspect that you or a loved one is struggling with a substance abuse problem, it's important to know some of the signs and symptoms of addiction to that drug. You can find a brief overview of the major drugs of abuse below. For a full list ...
... are a variety of treatment options available in helping someone addicted to crystal meth . Speak with someone now at . ... . Aftercare / Relapse Prevention The process of recovering from a drug addiction continues long ... continue reading -
Can You Get Addicted to Cocaine After the First Use?
How Addictive Is Cocaine? Drugs like cocaine have reputations for being extremely addictive, but still many people will want to try them “just once.” It's easy to wonder, “just how addictive is cocaine (really)?” Cocaine is a very addictive ...
... further propels addiction and adds to the risk of relapse in recovering users. Why Is Cocaine Dangerous? ... drugs. Socioeconomic status. Learn about how cocaine addiction is treated . How Long Does It Take to Get Addicted ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Recovery Program
No one expects to become addicted to drugs. Drug abuse isn't planned. It does occur however, and finding a drug abuse recovery program becomes an absolute necessity. When recreational or prescription drug use turns into uncontrollable drug abuse ...
... and cravings for drugs will always exist, which is why programs like the 12 Step program say that addicted individuals need ... programs, on-going support and relapse prevention. During the drug abuse recovery process, an ... continue reading -
30 Famous Athletes Who Have Battled Drug Addiction and Alcoholism
1. Michael Phelps Eight-time Olympic gold medalist swimmer Michael Phelps has not only plunged into the water, but also into drugs. In 2009, he lost his endorsement contract with Kellogg's after a photo emerged of him taking a hit of marijuana . 2. ...
... 4. Derek Boogaard NHL enforcer Derek Boogaard became addicted to prescription pain medication . A mix of ... for cocaine use. He entered rehab in 1987 but later relapsed and was suspended from playing in the 1995 season. 10 ... continue reading -
Am I Addicted to Prescription Drugs? How Can I Quit Safely?
If you've been using prescription drugs in a way that was not intended by your doctor, then it is possible that you are dependent on them, and dependency often leads to addiction. While addiction can be frightening, the good news is there's plenty ...
... Getting Help Some people think that if you're addicted to a prescription drug you should be able to just stop and not ... therapy to help you overcome your addiction and avoid relapsing . You may go to an inpatient treatment ... continue reading -
Treatment for Psilocybin Mushroom Addiction
How to Approach a Psilocybin Addict It can be difficult to watch someone you care about struggle with a psilocybin or “magic mushrooms” addiction. Your loved one may engage in self-destructive behaviors and isolate themselves from others. ...
... their loved one in the healthiest manner. Can You Get Addicted to Shrooms? To date, there is little evidence to ... peer support, vocational rehabilitation, drug education, relapse prevention groups, and case management ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Painkiller Abuse
Opioids are some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs. They include oxycodone , hydrocodone , meperidine (Demerol) , and many others. The demographics of those who abuse painkillers transcend the stereotypes of typical drug addicts. Opioid ...
... abuse painkillers transcend the stereotypes of typical drug addicts. Opioid painkillers are prescribed to help manage ... is an important early step in recovery and relapse prevention . The next step after supervised detox ... continue reading -
PCP Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is PCP? PCP is phencyclidine. Similar to ketamine, it is a dissociative anesthetic that causes: Hallucinations. Out-of-body experiences. Delusions. Irrationality. The DEA has PCP listed as a Schedule II drug, which means it has a high potential ...
... past year. 3 Learn about how to help a teen drug addict . PCP Abuse Treatment Types The effects of PCP abuse and ... recovery needs to live a life of sobriety and avoid relapse. Getting your loved one to a PCP rehab center ... continue reading -
Opioid Use: Signs of Misuse, Adverse Effects, and Treatment
Opioids are substances that are known for their pain-relieving effects. They include both legal and some illegal substances that may have the potential for misuse, which can potentially lead to dependence and/or addiction. 1 If you or someone you ...
... It's not always obvious when a person is misusing or addicted to opioids. Though an opioid use disorder diagnosis is best ... medications can help people stop using drugs, prevent relapse, restore normal brain function, and ... continue reading -
Heroin Overdose Symptoms, Signs, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment
How Is Heroin Consumed? Heroin is one of the most common, addictive, and lethal drugs in the world. A morphine derivative, heroin is sold illegally in the form of white or brown powder, or a sticky black substance known as “black tar heroin.” In ...
... results in the development of tolerance to the drug, meaning that more of it is required to ... in their tolerance level—placing themselves at risk should they relapse and attempt to take the same amount of heroin they ... continue reading -
How to Get Help for Barbiturate Addiction
How to Approach a Barbiturate Addict Knowing how to approach a loved one who you believe is addicted to barbiturates can be a difficult and daunting task if you do not fully understand addiction. Fortunately, there are professionals who can help you ...
... —at minimum—could be severe enough to trigger relapse or even be medically dangerous in some cases ... Signs of Barbiturate Addiction? Someone who is abusing or addicted to barbiturates may exhibit signs that are similar to ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and DXM Abuse
Alcohol and DXM are both potentially addictive substances. Problematic use of each can lead to a range of negative health effects. When taken together, their effects are heightened and the dangers of each are potentiated. The Problem of Alcohol and ...
... drug abuse and can promote a healthy environment for those in recovery to return to post-treatment. Motivational interviewing encourages the addict ... in mental health treatment. Relapse prevention plans will include helpful ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Ultram Abuse
The Problem of Alcohol and Ultram Abuse When used together, Ultram and alcohol can amplify one another's effects, leading to increased risk of serious side effects. The prescription drug Ultram (generic name: tramadol) is a pain reliever with ...
... Drug abuse therapy will address the reasons for the substance abuse and help with behavior modification and relapse ... Alcohol Overdose How to Help an Ultram Addict American Addiction Centers (AAC) maintains trusted rehab ... continue reading -
The 10 Most Insane Drug Addict Movie Characters
Insanity is a hard thing to define, but there are a number of characters in films who are definitely nuts in some way. Here's a quick rundown: 1. Francis Begbie Francis Begbie from Trainspotting was played by Robert Carlyle. A violent, intimidating ...
... Robert Downey Jr.? The character of Rip (James Spader) is the one who is truly nuts—a violent addicted drug dealer who pushes Downey's character to the limit, ultimately resulting in death from heart failure. 8. William ... continue reading -
How to Help a Heroin Addict
More than 590,000 people had a heroin use disorder in the U.S. in 2015, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. If you or someone you love is addicted to heroin, you're not alone, and there is help available. Approaching Someone About ...
... use disorder in the U.S. in 2015, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. If you or someone you love is addicted to heroin, you're not alone, and there is help available. Approaching Someone About Heroin ... continue reading -
Your Brain on Drugs: Studying Cocaine's Effect on Blood Flow
Stimulant drugs like cocaine can cause serious blood flow problems within the brain. When there is an insufficient flow of rich, oxygenated blood to the brain, it can result in aneurysm-like bleeding and strokes. Researchers have developed a new ...
... . Researchers hope this imaging breakthrough will eventually lead to better treatment options for recovering drug addicts, improve brain-cancer surgery techniques, and boost tissue engineering. Learn more about the risks ... continue reading -
The 25 Best Sources for Drug Addiction Research
1. Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) : Aims to bring effective substance abuse prevention to every community; works to improve accessibility to and quality of substance abuse prevention services. 2. Center for Substance Abuse Treatment ...
... Programs Sober Living Housing Aftercare Recommended Rehabilitation-Related Articles Drug and Alcohol Hotline Numbers How to Help a Drug Addict Drug and Alcohol Detoxification Rehab Without Insurance Free Rehab Centers continue reading -
How to Stay Healthy When Someone You Love Is Addicted to Drugs or Alcohol
“Self-care is essential to finding ways to limit the unwanted influence of substance use in your life.” When someone you love is abusing substances like alcohol and/or other drugs, you are likely to focus solely on the damage the addiction is ...
... you love is abusing substances like alcohol and/or other drugs, you are likely to focus solely on the damage the ... type of support group designed for family members of addicts that is grounded in the 12-Step philosophy of ... continue reading -
Infographic: Top 5 Deadliest Drugs
The top 5 deadliest drugs may not be the first that come to your mind. In fact, several of them are legal and commonly used! View our infographic below to learn ...
The top 5 deadliest drugs may not be the first that come to your mind. In fact, several of them are legal and commonly used! View our infographic below to learn more. continue reading -
5 Lies All Addicts Tell Themselves
As an addict, life is a game of survival. Day after day is dedicated to avoiding withdrawals and hiding the outward signs of chemical dependency. On top of that, feeding an addiction means developing an arsenal of psychological defense mechanisms. ...
... the shots in life; they don't want to admit they're chained to their drug(s) of choice. Deep down, most addicts are desperately searching for some kind of justification and—if they can just convince themselves that ... continue reading -
How to Help a PCP Addict
What Is PCP? PCP, or phencyclidine—commonly called “angel dust” —was developed in the 1950s as an intravenously administered anesthetic. PCP is no longer approved for medical use, and it is now only found on the illicit market. Most ...
... only found on the illicit market. Most commonly, the street drug form of PCP is a white, crystal-like powder that ... options, cost, and available facilities. Help for PCP addicts Use of PCP can lead to an array of unpleasant ... continue reading -
The Forefathers of Modern Illicit Drugs
While illicit drugs are a major concern in today's society, many of them didn't start off as recreational. On the contrary, many started off with medicinal and anesthetic purposes. Here's a look at some of the forefathers of modern illicit drugs, ...
... known as heroin . Following Wright's discovery, the drug was marketed as an analgesic and a cough sedative ... . If you or someone you know has an addiction to drugs or alcohol, please call to speak to a treatment advisor, ... continue reading -
How Alcohol and Drug Addiction Affects Relationships
Addiction and Relationships Many discussions surrounding addiction tend to focus on the physical and psychological effects of substance use. The effects of drug addiction, however, extend beyond these issues and also encompass a person's social ...
... . At times, in a flawed attempt to help the addict, a loved one will become an enabler . Enabling includes ... on a consistent basis so that the user is able to retrieve drugs. He or she may ask for money for gas or groceries ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Intervention
Addiction and Drug Abuse Drug abuse is one of the most serious health risks in the United States. People of all ages can fall into a destructive habit of using illicit or prescription drugs. Over time, the human body builds up a tolerance to the ...
... is admitting that a problem exists and that it cannot be solved without assistance. Many people who are addicted to drugs either don't know or refuse to admit that their addiction exists. Without help, the person would ... continue reading -
Drug Recovery | Programs
Understanding Drug Recovery Programs Drug recovery is an ongoing process of denial and acceptance. The body is denied its cravings for drugs, and the mind begins to accept the reasons why drug abuse occurred in the first place. Drug recovery ...
... variety of therapies to overcome the initial drug dependency and reduce incidents of relapse. The toll-free Drug Abuse Helpline at can assist you in finding a drug recovery program that meets your individual needs. Call ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Help
Drug abuse help is available for everyone. Whether it is for yourself or someone close to you, there is a drug abuse help center with a program to suit you. Our website provides confidential help, free of charge and provides you with a team of ...
... help to facilitate the development of everyday life skills in order to help you recover from drug abuse and addiction. Relapse triggers need to be acknowledged, avoided or circumvented and a contingency plan in must be ... continue reading -
20 Genius Minds and the Drugs They Were Addicted To
Intelligence doesn't preclude people taking drugs any more than fame does. When those who are under stress need to relax, some turn to drugs or drink as an escape from reality. Others do it because they believe it enhances their creativity or allows ...
... at the age of 27 due to suicide, alcohol, or drug use. In Cobain's case, it was suicide, presumably exacerbated ... drinking whisky, although to say that he was an addict might be a misnomer. He did, however, take ... continue reading -
What Can I Do if My Mother or Father Is an Alcoholic or Drug Abuser?
One of the most common issues we hear about is that a parent has become an addict and the children don't know what to do about it. Sometimes, they're scared of being taken away from the parent if the authorities find out. Sometimes they want the ...
... again. Eventually, you should get through. The reasons for alcoholism and drug abuse vary, but no one sits down and thinks, “today, I am going to become an addict.” Instead, it tends to be a slippery slope. Be prepared ... continue reading -
How Kids Get Hooked on Drugs at Such a Young Age
It's every parent's fear: their kids doing drugs. In general, most kids will try something before the age of twenty, and it's a fairly natural part of experimenting with the world around them. However, some kids will have an addiction problem before ...
... that your kid will enter into addiction . If your kid understands the risks of taking drugs (especially glue-the average age of a solvent addict is 12), he or she is likely to have the power to say no. However, friends ... continue reading -
5 Genius Minds Who Dabbled in Drugs
For hundreds and thousands of years, human beings have experimented with drugs. Some people used illicit substances to celebrate the gods; some used drugs to “communicate” with the other side. As time went on, people began using drugs for a ...
... . As a matter of fact, two separate studies have shown that people with higher IQs are far more likely to use drugs than people with average IQs. Here's a look at five men who not only transformed the course of history ... continue reading -
What You Need to Know About ‘Zombie Drug’ Krokodil
Krokodil (Crocodil) is a homemade version of a synthetic drug called desomorphine. As the name deso-morphine suggests, the chemical is in the opiate family and closely mimics the effects of heroin and morphine. Pure desomorphine is a very addictive ...
... ? Krokodil is a public health emergency in Russia; authorities say there are about 100,000 people addicted to the drug. But it is hard to accurately diagnose someone who also abuses heroin because of the similar symptoms ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Program
A drug abuse program is normally located within a drug treatment center. These centers are licensed and approved facilities that are staffed by experienced physicians, trained therapists, qualified nursing staffs and numerous other support staff. ...
... program will always provide the patient with a full continuum of care. Drug Abuse Program Components In any drug abuse program, relapse is a central concern. Many aftercare programs provide group and individual sessions ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Centers
Treatment can be provided on an outpatient, intensive inpatient or residential basis, depending on the type of center. Drug abuse centers are places where health, confidence, and optimism can be restored to people who have lost these positive ...
... rehabilitation philosophy. For help finding a the best drug abuse center for your needs, call us at ... relapse after an outpatient treatment attempt. Behavior Modification Therapy at Abuse Centers As mentioned, drug ... continue reading -
25 Great Writers Who Battled Drug Addiction and Alcoholism
Drug and Alcohol Addiction Can Affect Anyone Some people are more susceptible to addiction than others, and writers are notorious for having some sort of addiction. Whether it's alcohol to numb the noise of the world or speed or LSD to “inspire” ...
... he wasn't well at the time. Of course, the drug mentioned in The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde involved ... book titled Junkie, Burroughs was a heroin and opioid addict . He even accidentally shot his wife in the ... continue reading -
Commonly Abused Drugs | Examples of Drugs That Are Abused
Find Drug or Alcohol Addiction Treatment Programs If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, help is available and recovery is possible. Treatment can start anyone battling a substance use problem on the path to a healthier and happier ...
... . You can use SAMHSA's Find Treatment tool to search for facilities. Many state government websites will provide local drug and alcohol resources to those in need. To find your state government's website, do a web search ... continue reading -
Over-The-Counter Drugs of Abuse
It is a common misconception that only illegal drugs are dangerous. There are many different over-the-counter (OTC) drugs with psychoactive, or mind-altering properties that may lead to a number of serious medical and mental health consequences if ...
... , they must be safe. Contrary to popular belief, OTC drugs can be addictive and life-threatening when misused or abused. ... Seizures. Learn how to help a DXM addict . Ephedrine Ephedrine is a harmful central nervous ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Statistics
Statisticians analyze numerical information on subjects as varied as medicine, politics and even commercial retail sales - allowing researchers to investigate trends and test new ideas. As the phenomenon of substance abuse stubbornly continues to ...
... professionals of the populations that are most prone to addiction, the popular drugs of choice among various age groups, rates of relapse after treatment and education levels among abusers. With this information in hand ... continue reading -
Can You Get Addicted to Heroin After the First Use?
Heroin has the reputation of being one of the most addictive illicit drugs. Many government and academic institutions report that heroin is either very addictive or highly addictive . Adding to the risk associated with the substance is the number of ...
... abuse the drug. Heroin use is strongly associated with addiction, but can you get addicted to heroin ... can restore your health and wellbeing. How Do You Get Addicted to Heroin? The path to addiction is different for each ... continue reading -
5 Movies That Will Make You Never Want to Do Drugs Again
Hollywood has a knack for glamorizing controversial subjects and drug use is certainly one of them. Yet for every Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas or Trainspotting , there are also those films that will make you never want to touch drugs again. Here ...
... visited mental institutions over 100 times in her life. Caouette's own struggles to maintain his sanity began when a drug dealer friend of his mother gives him a joint at the age of 12. After smoking the marijuana joint ... continue reading -
Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers for Drug and Alcohol Abuse and Health Issues
A significant amount of people suffering with substance abuse and addiction meet the criteria for having additional psychiatric disorders, as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The phenomenon of ...
... because they often emerge simultaneously. For instance, when some people abuse alcohol or drugs to the point of becoming addicted, changes in the brain occur. These changes might secondarily give rise to psychological ... continue reading -
Am I Addicted to Painkillers? How Can I Quit Safely?
If you've been taking painkillers for an extended time, particularly after the pain that originally prompted their use has subsided, you might well wonder whether you're addicted to painkillers. Though many people take painkillers following a ...
... surgery or injury, it can be easy to develop a dependency to the more powerful of these drugs. Having an understanding of whether you're addicted can help you determine the right way to get the help you need. Even if you ... continue reading -
What Drugs Cause the Most Insane Behavior?
Many substances that are addictive cause mental changes or unusual behavior. Even if a substance does not inherently have mind-altering properties, people who are addicted to it may display strange behavior if they need the drug are unable to obtain ...
... Even if a substance does not inherently have mind-altering properties, people who are addicted to it may display strange behavior if they need the drug are unable to obtain it. Bath Salts Bath salts are a relatively new ... continue reading -
Instagram, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll
The Growth of Concerts and Music Festivals One of the most notable trends in music today is the growth of the music festival. As artists look to supplant revenue lost from declining sales of recorded music, music festival appearances serve as a way ...
... -global-expansion/ http://www.forbes.com/sites/jacobsullum/2014/12/30/ignoring-drug-use-at-musical-events-only-makes-it-more-dangerous/ http://www.ultramusicfestival.com/worldwide http://www.insomniac.com/festivals http ... continue reading -
An Uncomfortable Truth: Drug Abuse Raises STD Rates
A new study claims that swingers play a major role in the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) but, in addition to the sex, it's their drug abuse that is ultimately contributing to this increase. Linking Drugs and STDs Researchers at the ...
... or group sex, and/or visit sex clubs for couples.” The researchers found that 48% of the swingers used recreational drugs while engaging in sex acts. And that number jumped up to 79% if alcohol and erectile dysfunction ... continue reading -
Who Manufacturers All these Crazy Semi-Legal Designer Drugs?
Designer drugs have been subject of much media attention of late, as the Internet has made obtaining them easier than in the past. In many cases, it's simpler to order designer drugs online than to try to obtain street drugs. Designer drugs can be ...
... a problem, even though they are now clearly banned. The DEA usually does not become aware of a new designer drug until it has started to make people sick or cause problems . It is difficult to monitor every new substance ... continue reading -
Can You Get Addicted to Crystal Meth After the First Use?
What Is Crystal Meth? Crystal meth is a powerful, synthetically made stimulant. It can be ingested orally, injected intravenously , snorted , or smoked. Crystal meth is notorious for its high addictive potential, and many people suggest that taking ...
... that taking just one hit will get you addicted. Just how powerful is this substance? Because of ... someone close to you who will not pressure you into using the drug. If such a person does not exist in your life, consider ... continue reading -
Drugs on Mars and Venus
Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus is one of the most iconic books of the '90s, having sold more than 50 million copies. Its core theory is that men and women often think and act in dramatically different ways because of fundamental differences ...
... . It's much more common for a young man than a young woman to be approached by a stranger who is selling drugs. Data from SAMHSA's 2013 survey results show that one in five men aged 18 to 25 said they'd been approached ... continue reading -
From Bath Salts to Flakka: Searching for Designer Drugs
The new and unfamiliar often elicits fear of the unknown. But when the new and unfamiliar is a drug - and when this drug is attributed to episodes of extreme paranoia, acts of superhuman strength, and reports of “zombie-cannibalism” - it can ...
... in the khat plant, the stimulant found in bath salts and flakka is man-made. For the most part, both drugs are synthesized in China and shipped in bulk overseas. The term “bath salts” doesn't always refer to a specific ... continue reading -
DMT Drug Abuse Effects, Symptoms, and Treatment Programs
What Is DMT? DMT (dimethyltryptamine) is a hallucinogen capable of inducing a psychedelic “trip,” which typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes in duration. 1 DMT is a Schedule 1 drug under the Controlled Substance Act and has no recognized ...
... own, DMT is typically consumed by snorting , smoking, or injecting the substance. It does not take much of the drug to exert its psychedelic effects, since DMT is fully hallucinogenic at dosages as low as 0.2 mg/kg. 1,3 ... continue reading -
Am I Addicted to Klonopin? How Can I Quit Safely?
Klonopin is a brand name for the drug clonazepam . It's a benzodiazepine that affects the way chemicals in the brain work. It helps reduce anxiety , can treat seizure disorders, and may be used to treat panic disorders. Those taking it sometimes ...
... treat seizure disorders, and may be used to treat panic disorders. Those taking it sometimes become addicted to the drug physically and psychologically, so it is important to take Klonopin only as directed. You should ... continue reading -
Six Colossal Drug Abuse Meltdowns and How to Spot the Warning Signs
It's no mystery that celebrities, as well as the everyday Joe, can have problems with drugs. Because celebrities are in the limelight, though, we often see the drug abuse meltdown of famous people more prominently. The following six meltdowns were ...
... ex-husband Kevin Federline for the rights to her two sons. While Spears may have shaved her head to prevent drug testing , there are plenty of other ways to test a person for illegal substances. Later in 2008, this stint ... continue reading -
Symptoms of Date Rape Drugs: Effects & Signs of Being Roofied
Rape is a serious criminal act, with the potential for severe and lasting repercussions on the victim's life. Rape involves sexually taking advantage of another person without their consent, and this includes having sex with a person who is ...
... out for one another is the best way to foster a network of safety. What to Do if You Think You've Been Drugged First take a moment to remind yourself that no matter what happened, it is not your fault. If you are out on ... continue reading -
Facts About Krokodil (The “Zombie Drug”)
What Is Krokodil? Desomorphine (dihydrodesoxymorphine) or Krokodil, is an injectable opioid derivative of codeine. On the street and online, the drug is known as: Krokodil. Crocodile. Croc. Krok. Russian Magic. Poor Man's Heroin. The name ...
... , 2012). Why Is Krokodil Called a “Zombie Drug”? Krokodil has been called a “zombie drug” by the media. Most reports of krokodil use in the media have shown addicted individuals who have gangrene or eschars (dead patches ... continue reading -
Acid Drug Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Is LSD or Acid? D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD, acid, blotter) belongs to a group of drugs known as hallucinogens. Like other hallucinogens such as peyote (mescaline) and psilocybin (magic mushrooms) , LSD produces images, sounds, and other ...
... named Albert Hoffmann first created LSD in 1938, and from 1947 to 1966, it was sold as an experimental drug for psychiatry under the brand name Delysid. Possession and use of LSD was outlawed in 1970 under the Controlled ... continue reading -
Drug and Alcohol Abuse Across Generations
Substance abuse—both of alcohol and/or illicit drugs—has always maintained a consistent presence in American culture. As new drugs have been developed over the decades, their popular use has gone hand in hand with sweeping societal changes. From ...
... and anxiety, and survey data show that almost 10% of Boomers abused sedatives at the peak . 4 However, these drugs 5 were later phased out in favor of the safer, more effective class of anti-anxiety medications known as ... continue reading -
Drugs in the News
In a world grappling with issues of substance use and abuse, drugs are bound to see their days in the spotlight of our 24-hour news cycle. Maybe it's because of another tragic celebrity overdose, forcing us to confront the fact that even our heroes ...
... United States around the turn of the decade, it's been no surprise to see a rise in news about the drugs that may have helped fuel the scene: both ecstasy and ecstasy's purer form, MDMA. The reports range from the silly ... continue reading -
If Old Drug Ads Told the Truth
Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Through the late 19th century and mid-20th century, many of today's illicit drugs of abuse were available legally in the United States. Products containing cocaine, heroin, or amphetamine were readily available for ...
... - may seem daunting, there is hope in the form of addiction treatment . If you're concerned about your own drug use, or that of someone close to you, visit DrugAbuse.com or call to speak with someone today about recovery ... continue reading -
7 Crazy Ways Addicts Fund Their Drug Habits
It's no secret that drug addiction can drive people to do things that are completely out of character. When addiction takes hold, scoring drugs to avoid withdrawals is a 24/7 job. And there's no glamour in that kind of career path. Little girls ...
... crazy things. Here's a look at seven of the most outrageous methods ever used to fund a drug addiction: Law Breakers Addicts in Baltimore took recycling to a whole new level by cutting down city light posts, then selling ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Signs
Some drug abuse signs are obvious and others are subtle. Drug abuse takes a toll on the body both physically and psychologically. Physical drug abuse signs may be exhibited in an array of physical symptoms including an increase in blood pressure and ...
... in today's society. While there is an air of permissiveness concerning these illegal drugs, there are definite drug abuse signs that signal a problem. Increased appetite, heightened visual and auditory abilities, memory ... continue reading -
Understanding the Effects of Long Term Drug Abuse on the Brain
Drug addiction is a chronic brain disease, and it can cause you to compulsively seek out drugs even though you're aware of the harmful results taking them can cause. Initially, your choice to take drugs is voluntary. So, if someone offers you drugs, ...
... the same feeling. This is normally referred to as a tolerance, and the danger and effects of drug abuse that leads many addicts to hospitalization and death. You can build a tolerance after the very first time you take a ... continue reading -
15 Warning Signs That Your Kid May Be Using Drugs
Kids are a source of worry for every parent. You look after them for years, and you hope that they end up turning our alright. While there are hundreds of books and articles on how to raise your kids, few really work that well, and it's all down to ...
... If it smells of something else, ask your kid about it. Rapidly changing grades are one of the common consequences of drug addiction or use. If you kid goes from being a straight-A student to getting F's or D's, something ... continue reading -
State Sentencing: How Drug Sentencing Varies Across the U.S.
The United States has 5% of the world's population - and 25% of its prisoners. The average cost to house a minimum-security prisoner for one year is $21,006. By comparison, the average cost of putting a K-12 student through school for one year is ...
... a K-12 student through school for one year is $10,615. Nearly half of all U.S. prisoners are jailed for drug-related offenses. This isn't politics. These are facts. We wanted to know a little more about what's going on ... continue reading -
Drugs and Devotion
Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Why do some people seem compelled to experiment and others live their entire lives without ever taking a single puff, snort, sniff, or dose of an illicit substance? Thanks to decades of social studies, we now know ...
... effect may diminish in light of exposure to users.” In other words, being around people who take drugs can increase drug-taking, even in people who are very religious. To find out some of the other factors that influence ... continue reading -
Drug Use | Myths
There are many myths associated with drug use and abuse. Debunking these myths is the first step in understanding how drug use affects society and how we can tackle the problems associated with it head-on. Below are just a few of the myths that need ...
... does not affect everyone in the same way, and all drugs are not equally addicting. The addiction potential of any drug is related to the ability of the drug to affect the brain's pleasure center and the susceptibility ... continue reading -
Drug Addiction Quiz
The drug addiction quiz is designed to provide you an idea of whether a drug addiction or drug abuse problem exists. The drug addiction quiz is not perfect and the drug addiction quiz should only be seen as a guide. Take the drug addiction quiz ...
... Has your ever lost a job due to coming in late, mistakes or poor work performance due to drug use? Yes No Has your drug use caused problems or gotten you into trouble at your workplace? Yes No Have you been arrested for ... continue reading -
The 20 Countries With the Harshest Drug Laws in the World
United States drug laws are often considered harsh, but the penalties for carrying or trafficking drugs in other countries, particularly those in Central America, South America, and Southeast Asia, can be much more severe. Here are 20 countries in ...
... is a particular problem in Iran, in part because it is produced in neighboring Afghanistan. If you are caught with drugs in Iran, the best case scenario is a large fine and the worst-case scenario is the death penalty ... continue reading -
Ill Inventory: Drug Theft and Loss in the United States
Every year, countless people become reliant on pharmaceuticals. And every year, drugs go missing. Despite extensive efforts to curb addiction and abuse, America's war on drugs is far from over. Guidelines for improving opioid prescribing practices ...
... months, we used the monthly 2015 average. 2012, 2013, and 2014 reports are readily available. For our drug-related arrest data, we used the FBI's uniform crime reporting database, and for our crude rates of prescription ... continue reading -
Lethal Drug Combinations to Avoid
What Are the Deadliest Drug Combos? Combining drugs (“polysubstance abuse”) is both common and potentially dangerous. There are various reasons why individuals use substances in combination. For some, the activity is done haphazardly, without ...
... deception is a mere smokescreen. The reason for many of the deaths as a result of this combination of drugs is that people feel less vulnerable to heroin overdose because of their cocaine intake. In fact, users are no ... continue reading -
MXE Drug Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is MXE? Methoxetamine—also known as MXE—is a drug similar to ketamine and known for its hallucinogenic and dissociative properties. 1 MXE (sometimes called “Mexxy,” “M-ket,” “Special M,” or “legal ketamine”) is commonly sold ...
... States means that it is easily accessible by teens and may even be purchased over the internet. 3 Abuse of drugs like MXE in adolescents and teens can have a negative impact on brain functioning and the ability to learn ... continue reading -
Peyote Drug Addiction Symptoms, Side Effects, and Treatment Types
What Is Peyote Used For? Peyote (“buttons,” “mesc,” “cactus”) is a cactus plant consumed for its hallucinogenic properties and ability to alter a user's thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. 1 The top of the cactus plant that protrudes ...
... Use In some cases, users may increase the amount or frequency of their peyote use. Over time, abuse of the drug may negatively impact a person's life. Professionals refer to a set of 11 symptoms—which they describe as a ... continue reading -
What Could Illicit Drug Synthesis Expose You To?
For the 44 million Americans aged 12 and older who used illicit drugs in 2014, the associated health risks are grave. But there's another risk that accompanies illegally manufactured substances - the exposure to hazardous chemicals. Clandestine drug ...
... from the graphic above, the lists of issues are lengthy. If you'd like a comprehensive look at over 150 of the drugs people use, visit DrugAbuse.com . Next, we'll look at the worst possible result of using any type of ... continue reading -
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Assessment Test
Drug abuse is a serious problem that can lead to legal problems , financial problems , and health problems . Long-term drug abuse destroys your relationships and your body . Sadly, many people don't realize they are abusing drugs because they only ...
... 30 days to one year. Commonly, alcohol and drug abusers go through 30-day to 90-day programs. During drug rehab, you will live with other recovering addicts and attend individual counseling and group therapy sessions ... continue reading -
Popular Drugs By Demographic
Drug use is a growing problem in America and a concern that affects various demographics. In fact, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2011, about 8.7 percent of Americans 12 years and older—22.5 million ...
... one of six teens is at risk of becoming addicted. The 2012 MTF survey also saw a decrease in ... access sharpies, hairspray, and bath salts . Drug Use Among Young Adults Drug use also continues to be high among young adults ... continue reading -
The Five Most Famous Drug Cartels
It should come as little surprise that the five most famous drug cartels are centered in Mexico. After all, Miguel Angel Felix Gallardo, known as “The Godfather” for controlling all drug trafficking in Mexico as well as that along the country's ...
... Gallardo, Ernesto Fonseca Carrillo and Rafael Caro Quintero, the Guadalajara Cartel is one of the five most famous drug cartels in history as it was among the first to work with and significantly prosper from the cocaine ... continue reading -
America’s Drug Awareness
For the first time in a decade , the CDC reported that death rates in the United States have increased. While news outlets trumpet the increased violence rampant in many areas of the country, the public is largely unaware of a silent contributor - ...
... know someone who has died from an overdose, and more than half have voiced concern about a loved one's drug use. Drugs are currently the leading cause of injury-related deaths in the U.S. - and the issue has worsened in ... continue reading -
Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs and Addiction Treatment Programs
For some time now, the abuse of illicit substances such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin has been a persistent national problem. In more recent years, however, our country has seen an alarming rise in prescription drug abuse . ...
... problem, you can receive the help you need 24 hours a day and 7 days a week when you call our drug abuse helpline free at . Our friendly staff can counsel you and help you find the perfect program or support group for ... continue reading -
Drug Arrests Across America
The Current Drug Landscape An estimated 24.6 million Americans aged 12 or over used an illicit drug in 2013. That's 9.4% of the population. 1 The number was similar in 2012 (9.2%), and in that year the FBI reports that there were 1.5 million drug ...
... .okfn.org/ 4. http://www.chicagoreader.com/Bleader/archives/2013/02/22/drug-arrests-drop-in-chicago-but-still-snare-thousands-in-black-neighborhoods 5. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/07/us/07bcbayview.html?pagewanted=all ... continue reading -
I’m a Millionaire and I Need to Go to Rehab. Where Do I Go?
You've realized you have an issue, whether it's a heroin or coke addiction or a sex addiction, so you need to find somewhere nice to attend rehab. Naturally, you want somewhere that's a little more exclusive to avoid running into someone who might ...
... the actual treatments offered. Moving back to the US, the Betty Ford Center offers a number of programs for addicted patients, and its $32,000 cost covers therapy for the whole family as well as medically assisted detox ... continue reading -
Arkansas Woman Drowns after Huffing Duster
Duster, also known as canned or compressed air, is used to clean pieces of electronic equipment or other sensitive devices. Unfortunately, duster is also a product commonly abused. Known as “ huffing ,” users inhale the chemical-laden compressed ...
... 17 abuse duster. One in four students has abused duster before eighth grade. Inhalants are often the first drug abused by children. Inhalants are the fourth most-abused substance after alcohol, tobacco and marijuana. The ... continue reading -
How Edie Falco Portrays Addiction and Lives Recovery
Edie Falco has tackled a wide variety of roles on the stage and screen since beginning her career in the late '80s. But she is arguably best known for her breakthrough performance as mafia wife Carmela Soprano in HBO's drama, The Sopranos . Falco ...
... multiple awards for her portrayal of a nurse hiding her drug addiction on the Showtime black comedy Nurse Jackie . For ... is seen in various states of addiction, recovery and relapse, and it's not uncommon for scenes to ... continue reading -
Alternatives to Anxiety Medications
Anxiety disorders are some of the most commonly encountered mental health conditions. Approximately, 28.8% of adults will experience some type of anxiety in their lifetime (Kessler et al., 2005). Oftentimes, the first line of treatment for anxiety ...
... worked well for you or has resulted in too many side effects. You have a history of substance or drug abuse and addiction and are worried about taking medications with a potential for abuse and dependence. You feel that ... continue reading -
Risks of Smoking While Breastfeeding
The numerous health hazards associated with smoking tobacco are well researched and documented. There is no safe time to smoke , but in some situations, the potential for harm is more unequivocal than usual. One such situation is smoking before and ...
... to smoke while doing it, there are some risks to consider. Does Nicotine Transfer to Breast Milk? Yes. The active drug in tobacco smoke is nicotine, and it has been shown to get passed from a smoking mother to her baby ... continue reading -
Study Indicates Pot Really Can Lower Your IQ
This is your brain on pot: A new study has found that regular marijuana use is linked to both lower IQ scores and impaired decision making skills. It's All in Your Mind The findings from the University of California Davis Centre for Neuroscience ...
... 2002 to 9.5 percent in 2003, millions of pre-teens and teenagers are still using the drug. These studies show that what many view as “harmless” recreational marijuana use could have permanent cognitive implications ... continue reading -
Heroin's Death Toll Hits an All-Time High in New York
New York City has a serious heroin problem on their hands and new data released by the city's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene reveals just how deep the issue goes. In fact, more people died from unintentional heroin overdoses in New York ...
... Looking to the Future It's important to note that most overdose deaths don't just involve one single type of drug . As the N.Y. Health Department notes, 94 percent of the city's overdoses involved more than one substance ... continue reading
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