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Crisis Resource Guide
Identifying addiction and seeking treatment can feel overwhelming. While it can be difficult to know where to start, our crisis guide can provide answers to your questions. What Do I Do if There is an Emergency? Don't hesitate to dial 9-1-1 if you ...
... treatment for an SUD is more likely to relapse and find it more difficult to sustain long-term ... and support you need to begin your journey toward health and sobriety. Worried about being able to go to rehab? Find ... 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 ...
... rag into a bag, allowing the gases to become more concentrated before inhaling. Nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) is commonly ... these triggers, prevent relapse , and live a healthy life of sobriety. Find Inhalant Treatment ... continue reading -
7 “Rock-Bottom” Myths and the Truth Behind Them
Of all the popular addiction catchphrases, one has completely saturated the fabric of society and taken on a life of its own. That phrase is “rock-bottom.” When addiction professionals talk about chemical dependency, they often use the phrase ...
... are more recovery tools and therapy options available to us than ever before. 2 ... relapsed multiple times; maybe adding in holistic treatments such as acupuncture, drumming circles or pet therapy are the keys to sobriety ... continue reading -
Tramadol Overdose Symptoms and Treatment
Tramadolis the generic name for the drug Ultram, which is an opioid painkiller medication prescribed to treat moderate to moderately severe pain in adults. 1 Opioid medications have a high addiction potential, and overdose can be deadly—in fact, a ...
... recovering person relapses, they do not have the same level of tolerance as they had before becoming ... can be fatal. Formal treatment programs can provide the sobriety support needed to get clean and stay abstinent. Call ... continue reading -
Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment and Rehab Programs
Many prescription medications have the potential to become drugs of abuse if they are misused. Misuse of prescription drugs means taking them other than as prescribed. This includes taking a larger dose, using them more frequently, or taking them ...
... or urges, and how to prevent future relapse. 18 Finally, many rehab programs include aftercare. 13 Aftercare is ... that cost does not become a barrier to care. Before incurring out-of-pocket costs, it is always recommended ... continue reading -
The Addiction Recovery Journey in 9 Steps
The specifics of every person's addiction journey are different, but for most people, the path to recovery follows a similar trajectory: a “bottom” followed by the decision to take action; the initial, often traumatic physical and mental ...
... many people in recovery, this step made the difference between that final, successful attempt at sobriety and all the failed ones that came before ... a good way to tip yourself into relapse . You'll probably feel ready to ... continue reading -
Methamphetamine Detox and Withdrawal Symptoms
Methamphetamine (meth) is a powerful central nervous system stimulant with highly addictive properties. It can be smoked, nasally inhaled, injected, and even eaten. No matter how it is used, the effects have a rapid onset, followed by a high that ...
... alleviate within about a week of sobriety. Most users will slowly stop feeling the ... the most dangerous aspects of meth withdrawal is the risk of developing severe depression , which can not only precipitate relapse ... continue reading -
Hydrocodone Overdose
Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid that is prescribed for moderate to severe pain or as a cough suppressant. 1 There are many generic versions of hydrocodone on the market; the most common generic brand is Lortab and before its discontinuation, ...
... are many generic versions of hydrocodone on the market; the most common generic brand is Lortab and before its ... allow people to live and work in a home that supports sobriety. If you or a loved one is dealing with a ... continue reading -
Get the Facts on Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is a major issue in the United States. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 40.3 million people aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder (SUD) in 2020—with 28.3 million struggling with an ...
... of the drug to experience the same effect as they did before—this is known as tolerance. 5,6 When a person ... the initial steps of sobriety. How to Find Help for Substance Abuse While many people across the country ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Lortab Abuse
Substance abuse experts indicate that it is never safe to mix alcohol and Lortab . Although Lortab is a relatively harmless pain reliever when used appropriately and alcohol is safe in moderation, the combined effects of mixing Lortab and alcohol ...
... 12-Step programs). Often, individuals who are new to sobriety will be paired with another group member who has been ... situations that otherwise could lead to a relapse . Statistics for Alcohol and Lortab Misuse The ... continue reading -
Baclofen Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Baclofen Used For? Baclofen is a prescription skeletal muscle relaxant indicated for the treatment of muscle spasms and spasticity related to conditions such as multiple sclerosis. Baclofen is commonly prescribed to treat symptoms associated ...
... your addiction with therapy , group counseling , relapse prevention , and aftercare. Various types of ... of the keys to long-term sobriety is figuring out what works best for you. Before you transition out of treatment, it ... 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 ...
... cope with cravings and prevent relapse . After initial treatment, many recovering ecstasy addicts find benefit ... right help. You or a loved one can obtain sobriety with the right information and treatment options to assist ... 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 ...
... their DMT use and develop new skills to promote sobriety. Group counseling . This will help to foster ... will learn about substance abuse and techniques to prevent relapse . Family therapy . Including family in the recovery ... continue reading -
4 Loopholes We Use to Justify Staying Addicted
Justification is the effort to prove that our behaviors are valid or reasonable, and it is human nature to do so. In the field of psychology, this human tendency is related to cognitive dissonance. Simply put, cognitive dissonance is an ...
... relapse , as well as active addiction. When someone feels that their life is now more manageable—perhaps, due to a period of sobriety ... of active addiction may be imperative before seeking rehab treatment . In reality, ... continue reading -
Naltrexone Side Effects, Use in Addiction Treatment, and Rehab Programs
For those struggling with alcohol or opioid addiction, what's commonly referred to as MAT—short for medication-assisted treatment or medication for addiction treatment—can help people quit drinking and using drugs to maintain long-term sobriety. ...
... you may benefit from learning more about naltrexone, precautions to be aware of before you start using it, ... and keeping you on track with your recovery, even if you relapse. 4 It's important to keep in mind that while it ... continue reading -
Health Insurance for Drug and Alcohol Rehab Treatment
If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to drugs and/or alcohol, it can feel overwhelming. Getting help through an addiction treatment program is a way to start down the road to recovery, but the cost may seem out of reach. While you ...
... them continue their journey of recovery and sobriety. Maintenance and treatment medication : Some ... ease drug cravings and are often effective in preventing relapse . This can help support people throughout their recovery ... continue reading -
My Mind’s Playing Tricks on Me: How to Stop Addictive Thinking Patterns
In prison, many of the women I met struggled with substance abuse issues. Although alcohol and drugs were no longer in endless supply in there, many of them carried on with the same addictive thoughts and behaviors. Manipulation, isolation, instant ...
... relapse . So, it's important to change those old destructive thoughts and behaviors to maintain your sobriety ... simply make, and it is OK to ask for help. Many people find themselves going back to old habits that stop them ... continue reading -
Before & After: Physical Effects of Drugs
Drug abuse is a national issue continuing to plague Americans of all walks of life. An estimated 19.7 million Americans age 12 and older struggled with a substance use disorder in 2017. Research also shows that many people who suffer from untreated ...
... The risk of relapse increases without treatment. Driven by their addictions, many drug users engage ... ones identify signs of possible drug abuse in users. Before and After Using Drugs The consequences of substance abuse ... continue reading -
The 12 Most Expensive / Luxury Rehabs in the US
You don't need to be a millionaire to go to rehab, but a person with a little extra money to spend and the desire to get sober can choose from many expensive or luxury rehabs in the United States. Southern California, specifically picturesque ...
... a clinical team with over 300 years of collective sobriety and the direction of founder Joe McKinsey, who's ... at the top levels. CEO Dr. David Sack has more than 30 years of experience in addiction treatment and writes ... continue reading -
Do I Have to Hit Rock Bottom Before I Get Help?
No! Hitting rock bottom is not a prerequisite to seeking help for substance abuse; help is available whenever you are ready for it. Unfortunately, statistics show that many people who are struggling with substance abuse will not seek help until they ...
... . This may involve going to a weekly support group. What Prevents People from Seeking Help Before They Hit Rock Bottom? There are many reasons why people who are dealing with substance abuse do not seek out the help that ... continue reading -
12 of the Most Addictive Drugs
Addiction affects millions of lives in the U.S. It is a chronic disease that frequently includes cycles of relapse and remission, and it is progressive without treatment or participation in recovery work. It is characterized by being unable to ...
... individuals who start using marijuana before they are eighteen are even more likely to develop a cannabis ... withdrawal can be extremely unpleasant and may lead to relapse, which can easily result in a fatal overdose. ... continue reading -
Drinking More During the Lockdown (Survey of 3,000 Americans)
Big Night In: 1 in 4 Americans admit they have been drinking more since lockdown as it's cheaper than going out, survey reveals. We've all heard the saying “Go hard or go home” on a night out on the town but what if instead you choose to go hard ...
... U.S., Rhode Islanders topped the at-home happy hour charts with 43% admitting they are drinking more now than before lockdown due to it being cheaper than going out. Comparatively, only 16% of Oregonians admitted to this ... continue reading -
Women Are More Likely to Get Hooked on Cocaine—But Why?
Women are generally more vulnerable to cocaine addiction than men, according to a recent study published in the journal Nature Communications. They're also more likely to use cocaine at an earlier age, take drugs in larger quantities, and have ...
... difficulty staying sober, and they are at increased risk of relapse . But why? Well, the reason seems to come down ... drug with greater enjoyment and therefore making them more likely to get hooked. Should We Adjust Our ... 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 ...
... his wife and ends up writing lots of reports for his handler. The movie is very messed up—but what's even more messed up is that it's based on the author's life, albeit rather loosely. This is an adaptation of one of ... continue reading -
DEA: Heroin ‘Probably’ More Dangerous Than Marijuana
With 23 states and Washington D.C. legalizing medical marijuana and four states legalizing it for recreational use, it's quite possible we'll see a day when marijuana is considered “legal” throughout the U.S. However, the Drug Enforcement ...
... , it would certainly create its own set of issues and consequences. The change would also heighten the need for more scientific and controlled studies to be done on both the efficacy and dangers of the drug . For those ... continue reading -
Smoking Around Kids is More Dangerous Than You Think
Most of us know that exposure to secondhand smoke can produce serious consequences for unborn children, including low birth weight, heart defects and learning disorders. But the potential ramifications of secondhand smoke certainly don't stop at ...
... that children exposed to secondhand d tobacco smoke were more than three times as likely to suffer from ... do it. Although some try to quit cold turkey, most people have greater success by putting together a plan and ... continue reading -
The 7 Most Addictive Prescription Medications
Prescription drugs are commonly given to people suffering from with injuries or illnesses. They're legal when you've been prescribed the medication by a legitimate medical provider. However, these drugs still can be addictive when taken as ...
... have taken excessive amounts to produce euphoria. Those who take large amounts over a long period of time are most at risk for heart problems. 5. Darvocet Darvocet is an opioid used to ease the pain from serious injuries ... continue reading -
Drunk You, Sober You: More Alike Than You'd Think
Laura feels uncomfortable in social situations. She likes to have a few beers to loosen up. She prefers “drunk Laura” to “sober Laura” when trying to socialize. She thinks she's a lot more fun and likeable. Tom blew up at his friend Chris ...
... loosen up. She prefers “drunk Laura” to “sober Laura” when trying to socialize. She thinks she's a lot more fun and likeable. Tom blew up at his friend Chris when they were out drinking together last weekend. He called ... 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 ...
... , Tijuana Cartel, Juárez Cartel and Gulf Cartel remain and will be known for a long time as five of the most famous drug cartels in the world. If you or someone you love has become tangled up in a drug addiction, please ... continue reading -
The 9 Most Expensive Drugs in America
Each year, Americans spend nearly $100 billion on illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. These figures do not even account for the billions of dollars that are spent on prescription drugs each year—about $374 billion according ...
... Cocaine has a reputation as a “rich man's drug.” At approximately $60 per gram, it is one of the most expensive party drugs , yet 1.5 million Americans are regular users. Each year, Americans spend a shocking $37 billion ... 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 ...
... conditions as an over-the-counter remedy up until the late 1920s. It was especially popular during prohibition, when many saw it as a safe and sane alternative to alcohol. It was one of the original ingredients in Coca ... continue reading -
Most Dangerous Drug Combinations—Infographic
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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 ...
... with family and group therapy, addiction education, relapse prevention, and self-help groups. You will also take regular drug tests to guarantee sobriety. 6 Many types of outpatient treatment programs are available to ... continue reading -
Spice Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Spice? “Spice” is a term commonly used to refer to a blend of dried plant material that is laced with a synthetic cannabinoid. It is also regularly referred to as “synthetic marijuana.” Other names include “K2,” “Moon Rocks,” ...
... 90 days ) to focus on sobriety. Outpatient (more flexible) Care , which incorporates ... elements of inpatient rehab—including regular counseling, addiction education, and relapse ... continue reading -
Joints vs. Edibles: How Marijuana Affects the Body
The primary psychoactive component of marijuana (cannabis)—what deliver the “high,” in other words—is the substance tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 1 THC's powerful, mind-altering effects derive from its interaction with and activation of the ...
... 30 to 60 minutes before reaching the brain), the effects felt after consuming edibles will often be more gradual in onset but ... dependency on the road to a life of sobriety. You can contact a caring admissions navigator ... continue reading -
Addiction in the Medical Field: Balancing Healing and Hiding
Medical professionals work hard to heal the sick, but underneath those white lab coats and cartoon scrubs, many are secretly struggling with the disease of addiction. Working in the healthcare field can feel like a pressure cooker at times. The ...
... each and every medical provider who's serious about traveling the road to sobriety. Learn more about how you can help an addicted loved one find sobriety . How to Find Help for Alcohol or Drug Misuse If you or someone ... continue reading -
The Great Debate: Alcohol vs. Marijuana
You may have had the debate yourself—what's worse? Alcohol or marijuana? With new studies coming out and more laws legalizing the recreational and medicinal use of marijuana, the conversation seems to come up again and again. Even though we may ...
... was involved, the odds of being in a car accident increased more than 2,200%! When both alcohol and drugs are in the ... , you may not remember what happened the night before. This is often referred to as a “blackout ... 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 ...
... are out on the town and suddenly feel significantly more intoxicated than you believe you should—especially if you ... . If you do not remember what happened the night before and you suspect that someone may have raped you, ... 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 ...
... situations, the potential for harm is more unequivocal than usual. One such situation is smoking before and during pregnancy. Before pregnancy, doing so makes conception more difficult. Continuing to smoke while pregnant ... continue reading -
Why Is Heroin So Addictive?
Despite its dangers and reputation for harm, use of heroin continues to escalate in the U.S. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Rates of heroin use have increased across gender, socioeconomic status, age group, ...
... brain, where enzymes convert it back into morphine , before it attaches to sites on the surface of neural cells ... —so that relapse can be avoided. Treatment frequently begins with detoxification . In many formal treatment ... continue reading -
A Dangerous Trio: Skipping Dinner, Binge Drinking and Overeating
In today's culture, binge drinking is becoming more and more prevalent. This is especially true on college campuses, where a lot of partying takes place and many students spend their nights at clubs and bars, rather than in the dorm studying. Today, ...
... consuming an apertif - an alcoholic drink before a meal - stimulates appetite and heightens activity ... of the study group went on to eat more - most of them significantly more - after they being administered an alcoholic ... continue reading -
Snorting Heroin Side Effects, Dangers, and Addiction Treatment
Heroin is a highly addictive Schedule I controlled drug. Heroin has a long history—it was first synthesized (as diacetylmorphine) in 1874 from morphine. Paradoxically, heroin was originally marketed as a safer and non-addictive form of morphine. ...
... including respiratory depression and coma. 6 One of the most dangerous side effects of this drug is the way in ... the resources needed to ensure that you do not relapse . Getting Help for Heroin Addiction Heroin addiction ... continue reading -
Anxiety and Substance Abuse: Treating Mental Health Issues and Addiction
It can be difficult to manage an anxiety disorder or a substance use disorder, and it can be even more difficult to manage both disorders when they co-occur together. When a mental health disorder—such as an anxiety disorder—and a substance use ...
... severe symptoms associated with their alcohol use disorder, more severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms, increased risk of relapse after treatment, and more severe anxiety symptoms, and they are less likely to make progress ... 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 ...
... psychiatric condition, treating dual diagnosis patients provides a challenge, though it is not an insurmountable one. Many treatment centers are equipped to handle the issue or even specialize in dual diagnosis rehab. If ... continue reading -
Russian Roulette: The Hidden Dangers of Cutting Agents in Cocaine and Heroin
In the United States, more than 47,000 people die from drug overdoses every year . To make matters worse, drug deaths have recently surpassed both automobile and firearm accidents as the leading cause of accidental death in the country. There's no ...
... by the FDA in 1983 due to increased risk of cancer and kidney damage. And levamisole, the second-most-common substance in cocaine, is a veterinary pharmaceutical used to deworm livestock; when it's mixed with cocaine, it ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Carisoprodol Abuse
Carisoprodol, sold in the United States under the brand name Soma , is a centrally-acting skeletal muscle relaxant that is prescribed to relieve discomfort related to painful musculoskeletal conditions such as muscle injuries and spasms. ...
... than advised . It is usually recommended to take this drug for 2 or 3 weeks at most. Signs and Symptoms While most people combine carisoprodol and alcohol to enhance both drugs' sedative , euphoric effects and bring them ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Norco Abuse
Norco, which is the brand name for hydrocodone , is a narcotic pain reliever. If you are misusing Norco, your body may be dependent on the drug, ultimately resulting in addiction. Concurrent alcohol and Norco abuse occurs when someone is using both ...
... Drinking and Norco Abuse If you have found your teen abusing Norco and alcohol together, you are not alone. Many other parents and guardians are dealing with the same problem, but there was a marked decline in the use ... continue reading -
What Is Ativan? Is Ativan Addictive? Dangers of Ativan Abuse
Ativan is one of the top 10 psychiatric drugs used in America. Many have taken it; many have abused it. What do you know about it? If you're like most people, your knowledge of Ativan is limited. Even those who use it are often unaware of its ...
... . Indicators of Ativan addiction include: Cravings: Do you feel a compulsion to use Ativan? Tolerance: Do you need more and more of it to feel the effects of Ativan ? Withdrawal symptoms: If you don't take Ativan, do you ... 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 - ...
... then asked our survey participants whether they had ever brought up concerns about other people's substance abuse habits. More than half said they had, while just under 4 in 10 said they hadn't. (Another 7 percent said ... continue reading -
What Is Crack Cocaine? Side Effects, Crack Withdrawal, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Crack Cocaine? Crack cocaine is an addictive stimulant drug that is the rock crystal form of powdered cocaine. 1,2,5 Crack cocaine is a more potent form of cocaine that is processed so that it can be smoked, which provides an immediate high. ...
... form of powdered cocaine. 1,2,5 Crack cocaine is a more potent form of cocaine that is processed so that it can be ... The goal of CBT is to prevent relapse so that you can maintain sobriety. 9 This is accomplished by: 9 ... continue reading -
9 Memorable Quotes From Former Addicts
Robin Williams and Phillip Seymour Hoffman were both in recovery when drug relapses ultimately led to their tragic and untimely deaths. For someone who has never been there, it may be hard to comprehend how addiction can grip someone so ...
... so strongly—even after years of sobriety. Questions abound, many of which are simple variations ... “I've been in recovery for 23 years, and I've relapsed seven times. But, the support I get in the recovery community has ... 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, ...
... have failed. Recovery is a lifelong process and most often, multiple relapses are a normal part of the process. Someone in recovery has the best chances of long-term sobriety if they have a supportive network of friends ... continue reading -
Snorting Cocaine Side Effects, Signs, Dangers, and Addiction Treatment
Cocaine is a stimulant drug with highly addictive properties that is derived from the coca plant. 1 Also known as “coke,” “snow,” and “blow,” cocaine is a white, crystal-like powder that provides a euphoric high. How Is Cocaine Taken? ...
... increased risk of future relapses. 2 Animals who have been given cocaine in the past are more likely to seek it out ... rewards in exchange for desired behaviors that maintain sobriety, e.g. passing drug tests, attending all ... continue reading -
21 Powerful Tips to Get and Stay Sober
The time is now to make a change, and stick to it . The following 21 tips will help you get and stay sober in 2017. 1. Live in the now. You cannot change yesterday or control tomorrow. Focus on doing your best right now. 2. Seek support in nature. ...
... . 8. Don't live in fear of relapsing. Worrying about slipping back into old destructive patterns ... stay in rehab. It takes more than 30 days to develop and nurture a solid foundation for sobriety. It's something you'll ... continue reading -
Percocet Overdose
What is Percocet? Percocet is an opioid painkiller medication containing oxycodone and acetaminophen 1 . When abused, it has a high potential for deadly overdose . In fact, in 2015 nearly 18,000 people died due to overdose on opioid painkillers like ...
... a lethal dose . Additionally, if a person relapses after a prolonged period of abstinence, they may ... build up their sobriety skills. Inpatient programs typically offer 30-, 60-, and 90-day options (or more, if necessary ... continue reading -
10 Tips for Staying Sober This Holiday Season
With the holidays just around the corner you may be wondering how you can stay sober with parties, dinners, and social gatherings. Whether you are newly sober or 5 years into your recovery, it can be difficult to gear up for sobriety during the ...
... not drink. Here are a few tips to help you navigate sobriety during the holidays. Create a Plan If you know that you ... to drink, plan ahead. You can create a relapse prevention map that you can refer to throughout the ... continue reading -
Methadone Programs: A Bad Treatment Plan for Addicted Parents?
When it comes to the negative effects of substance abuse, addiction casts a wide net. Addicted parents, in particular, are faced with a unique set of challenges, as an opiate dependency ultimately affects the whole family. For thousands of parents ...
... methadone maintenance programs promise to open the doors of sobriety. What they don't tell you, however, ... addicted parent, and in 2 cases, both parents had died before the 10-year follow-up interview. This compares to a 7 ... continue reading -
Meth Overdose Symptoms, Signs, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment
What Is Methamphetamine? Methamphetamine—most commonly known as “meth,” “crystal,” “speed,” and “ice”—is an addictive stimulant that causes users to experience an intense, euphoric rush. 1 Meth can be smoked, snorted, injected, ...
... CBT also helps patients to identify their triggers and develop relapse prevention plans. The Matrix Model : has been shown ... programs, or those who have been able to maintain sobriety for a period of time. In addition to ... continue reading -
Getting Sober: 17 Ways You Probably Didn’t Know About (#8 is Controversial)
The 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous are so dominant in addiction recovery culture that it can be easy to forget there are other ways to get sober. If AA or NA works for you, that's wonderful. If not, there are plenty of alternative tools and ...
... just as effective as a traditional relapse prevention program, if not more so. Here's one particularly ... of your Beast. 14. Women For Sobriety Women for Sobriety is another sobriety support group and program. Its “New ... continue reading -
Snorting Morphine
Morphine is a prescription opioid medication used to treat relatively severe pain 1 . Morphine is prescribed in a variety of forms, including liquid solution, tablets, and capsules, and is only intended to be used under the supervision of a medical ...
... factors combine to increase the risk of a relapse. Fortunately, treatment programs exist to help ... sobriety. Outpatient treatment programs offer one or more weekly therapy sessions to help people maintain their sobriety ... continue reading -
What Does It Mean to Be Dope Sick?
Bill found John curled up on the couch; he looked miserable. Bill asked, “What's wrong with you?” “I'm sick, man. You got any?” was John's weak response. As Bill suspected, John was in withdrawal. An active heroin user, John was low on cash ...
... However, the only cure for this sickness is time and sobriety. Dope sickness typically hits after someone goes without their drug ... you to stay sober long-term and prevent relapse . For help with alcohol or drug addiction ... continue reading -
Has Kombucha Gotten a Bad Rap?
Often touted as a miracle elixir, Kombucha offers a plethora of health benefits. For those who don't know, Kombucha is a fermented beverage made from tea, sugar, bacteria, and yeast. It's available in most health food stores in a variety of flavored ...
... most surprising response was an indirect implication that one should question their understanding of Step One and reconsider their sobriety ... saw people drinking Kombucha who didn't relapse, and I saw different concepts of ... continue reading -
Curing Alcoholism: We’re Finally Putting MDMA to the Test
It seems ironic that one of the first drugs I used on the way to full-blown addiction is now being used in a study to cure alcoholism. Last week, UK researchers from Imperial College of London broke the news that they were about to begin the world's ...
... have suffered trauma and it helps to build empathy. Many of my patients who are alcoholics have suffered some ... hope so—and I hope it leads to sustained sobriety for the thousands struggling with substance abuse disorders. ... continue reading -
Here’s a Simple Way to Decrease Opiate Cravings
We all know that getting enough sleep is important to your mood and overall health, but it also plays a crucial role in addiction recovery, too. According to a recent Penn State study , squeezing in enough shut-eye can actually lower drug cravings ...
... Wernersville, Pennsylvania, to undergo assessments of relapse risk. Each of the 68 had recently ... very good about yourself. Negative thoughts breed even more negative thoughts, and before you know it, you're less likely to ... continue reading -
Heroin’s Effects on Pregnancy
Heroin is an illegal and highly addictive substance that may be injected, smoked, or snorted. This powerful opiate drug can easily harm any user, and it can cause numerous problems for a pregnant mother and her developing baby. Unfortunately, heroin ...
... vital for any expectant mother, and it may be even more essential for women using heroin due to the high risk for ... a term used to define babies who are born before 37 weeks of pregnancy are completed. There are categories ... continue reading -
5 NFL Players Who Tackled Their Addictions
Drugs and alcohol have become a major part of NFL culture. From March 2013 to March 2014, NFL players were arrested 27 times on drug charges, and several players have also received lengthy suspensions for positive drug tests, including Cleveland ...
... the sober life.” Erik Ainge (New York Jets) Shortly before training camp began for the 2010 season, Ainge, 28, ... helped him get sober. “I've been able to maintain (sobriety). It's going good,” he said last July. “(It) ... continue reading -
Catastrophic Thinking: Alcohol Isn’t Your Great Escape
Cassie's heart began to race. “Am I dying?” she thought. “What if I'm having a heart attack?” Jeff's wife was running late. He worried there had been a terrible car accident. Jeff pictured his wife lying all alone in a ditch somewhere, ...
... more likely outcomes. (Jeff's wife is stuck in traffic… her meeting ran long… she didn't answer the phone because she's driving… this has happened multiple times before ... of alcohol treatment and sobriety, it's especially ... continue reading -
Social Drug Use is Like Kryptonite to Healthy Relationships
Heather always feels awkward at parties. She's quiet and shy. She never knows what to say and finds it hard to interact with people in these intimidating settings. To help her “loosen up,” she tries smoking pot before going to a party. Once ...
... a bar or club. To overcome this inhibition, he snorts cocaine before going out with his friends. Suddenly, he meets lots of women ... is that it “helps” you meet people and interact more. The problem, however, is that it's a ... continue reading -
In the Rooms: 11 Benefits of Seeking Online Support in Recovery
For the longest time, support for people in recovery was limited to in-person meetings or telephone conversations. Attending 12-Step meetings, 12-Step alternative meetings, or chatting over the phone with your sponsor or other people in recovery ...
... increased dramatically. Now there are online meetings, addiction/recovery discussion forums, Twitter chats, Facebook groups, sobriety apps, and more. In today's world, if you have access to a computer or smart phone, a ... 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. ...
... know where to begin. The first step may be the most important. In these cases, it is often advisable to contact ... Therapy helps patients to identify warning signs of relapse and utilize coping skills in trigger situations. ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Codeine Abuse
Codeine phosphate is an opioid analgesic drug —otherwise known as a painkiller or narcotic. It is a relatively mild narcotic but, when used in large amounts, it can still be quite dangerous. Typically, codeine is prescribed to treat mild to ...
... the access . Alcohol also continues to be the most popular drug for both the adult population and for minors ... working to help you get back to living a life of sobriety, and we'll help you to choose a substance abuse ... continue reading -
My Confusing Experience Following the Kratom Trail
Three years ago, I lived with a boyfriend who was a functioning addict. He was in law school at the time, so he looked for anything he could get his hands on to sharpen his focus, then allow him to relax after hours of intense studying. He chewed ...
... is Kratom? Kratom was a word I'd never heard before; a quick Google search didn't reveal much, other than ... about kratom - and that knowledge could prove to be much more important down the road than the very little we have ... 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 ...
... lead to tolerance and addiction . As a person takes more and more of the drug to achieve the same effects, the risks ... in recovery needs to live a life of sobriety and avoid relapse. Getting your loved one to a PCP rehab ... continue reading -
Short-Term Effects, Long-Term Effects, and Side Effects of DMT Misuse
Is DMT Harmful? DMT (dimethyltryptamine) is a hallucinogenic compound found naturally in a variety of plant species and produced endogenously in the human brain. Although the brain produces it naturally, the compound itself is still a Schedule 1 ...
... help them control their drug use and find sobriety. Some common forms of behavioral therapy and ... use to cope with cravings in a healthy way and avoid relapse when a craving arises. 12-step programs : Support groups ... continue reading -
Free, National, and 24-Hour Narcotics Hotline Numbers and Resources
Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) free at What Are Narcotics? Narcotics, commonly referred to as opioid pain relievers, are only used for severe pain if other pain relievers do not help. 1 The drugs not only help relieve severe pain but also ...
... your location or travel for care? Have you attended treatment before this? Do you want to use medications as part of ... to get help for someone else , it may be more difficult to come up with this information offhand. It can ... continue reading -
Did the DEA Really Abandon Its Plan to Ban Kratom?
Several years ago, when I was living with my ex-boyfriend, I stumbled upon a package he received. The receipt said it was a bottle of kratom - a word I had never heard of before. A cursory Google search didn't pull up much either, beside the fact it ...
... a bottle of kratom - a word I had never heard of before. A cursory Google search didn't pull up much either, ... this article . Now, not only is there a lot more known about kratom, it's the subject of much debate lately ... continue reading -
Addiction and Your Hormones: Pointing the Finger at Estrogen
Could a hormone imbalance be to blame for your chemical dependency ? The answer might surprise you. If you're a woman, chances are you're familiar with the effects of a fluctuating estrogen level. Symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, and depression ...
... that most imbalances are treatable. If you find yourself frequently relapsing, ... lacking the energy or motivation to complete your treatment program , or feeling stressed out at the thought of long-term sobriety ... continue reading -
Suboxone Debate: What Is the Big Problem with Buprenorphine?
When it comes to this nation's chemical dependence, few drugs have achieved the notoriety and reputation of opioid drugs. In fact, things have spiraled so far out of control that opiate addiction is now considered an epidemic. Despite leaving a ...
... decreasing the chance of a relapse. 2 “Buprenorphine is the most important advance certainly in heroin ... re continuing to give someone a narcotic.” 4 A Quest for Sobriety… and the Truth One of the best ways to ensure your ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Morphine Abuse
It is never safe to mix alcohol with other medications. Morphine—an opiate—can be particularly dangerous when mixed with alcohol, given its ability to intensify the effects of alcohol intoxication. Alcohol and morphine facts and information ...
... addiction histories. Often, individuals who are new to sobriety will be paired with other group members who have ... through difficult situations that otherwise could lead to relapse . Treatment for abuse of any one ... continue reading -
Gabapentin Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, Overdose, & Treatment
What Is Gabapentin Neurontin? Gabapentin Neurontin is an anticonvulsant that comes in a capsule, tablet, and oral solution. It is used to manage certain seizure disorders, as well as the neuropathic pain phenomenon known as post-herpetic neuralgia ...
... and engage in group therapy. 12-Step support groups : Before, during, or after treatment, you may attend 12-Step ... some sort of care in order to prevent relapse. Find Gabapentin Addiction Treatment Programs If you or ... 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 ...
... . Here are five movies that might drive anyone to sobriety. The Basketball Diaries This classic coming-of-age flick is ... movies go, Requiem for a Dream is probably the most popular of them all. Directed by Darren Aronofsky, ... continue reading -
7 Really Smart Ways to Save Money on Suboxone
A couple of weeks ago, I saw a Facebook post from an acquaintance of mine lamenting about the exorbitant price of Suboxone. I'd known her to have a problem with opiates in the past, but it seemed like she was doing all the right things to get her ...
... the high cost of her medication was now jeopardizing her sobriety. Was she just supposed to go cold turkey and ... pay each month and undoubtedly creates a financial strain in most people's lives. But the good news is that ... continue reading -
7 Warning Signs Your Friends Are Making Your Addiction Worse
Maybe taking that first step toward sobriety/recovery is actually the best thing you can do, for yourself and your friends. If your group of friends is really into yoga or eating sushi, then there's a pretty good chance you know the difference ...
Maybe taking that first step toward sobriety/recovery is actually the best thing you can do, for yourself and ... the help you may need? 4. They Push You to Use More Do you ever go shot for shot? Line for line? Do they ... continue reading -
Effects of Crystal Meth Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, & Side Effects
What Is Methamphetamine Used For? Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant that can have long-lasting effects on the body. This is a man-made substance that—with the advent of other more efficacious prescription stimulants—now has limited ...
... of symptoms and may help to prevent relapse. Crystal Meth Rehab Programs Successful completion of ... allow the user to focus intensely on sobriety with minimal distractions or temptations. Most programs range from 28 or 30 ... continue reading -
Effects of Cocaine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, & Side Effects
Cocaine is a Schedule II illegal stimulant drug that is highly addictive. It is often used recreationally, and there is a range of dangers associated with the use of cocaine. This page will talk about: What cocaine is and how it is used. Cocaine's ...
... more slowly than usual Paranoia Sleep issues, including excessive sleeping or insomnia Strong cravings for cocaine, which can lead to an increased risk of relapse ... that is supportive of sobriety. 5,9 Common behavioral ... 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. ...
... cocaine use. He entered rehab in 1987 but later relapsed and was suspended from playing in the 1995 season. ... Nate Newton Nate Newton made six Pro Bowls in NFL before being busted for marijuana, earning him two and a half ... continue reading -
From Snort to Synapse: We Map Out Cocaine's Trip in Your Brain
The powder is perfectly lined on the table. With no straw handy, you roll up a Washington and seconds later, the snow is gone. Inhaled into your nostril, this stimulant drug has started a trip that will change your brain… forever. What does this ...
... 've come to the point when your body reacts to cocaine use . But before we get to the euphoria, let's take a look at what happens when ... live healthier and happier lives. To learn more about rehab options, please contact a ... continue reading -
Vivitrol's New and Controversial Role in Prisons
When I was in prison, the majority of inmates struggled with substance abuse. And because the prison system did very little (if anything at all) to rehabilitate us, it wasn't unusual for those who were released to almost immediately overdose or ...
... shown to reduce cravings , which can trigger a relapse. Correctional facilities partnered with Alkermes, the drug's ... to provide the first injection between two and seven days before an inmate's release. He or she is then ... continue reading -
Should People Who Abuse Alcohol Qualify for Liver Transplants?
Three years ago, one of my uncles—a long-time alcoholic—was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver. He was told he didn't qualify for a new one, so he continued to drink—all the way until his death a few short months later. Alcoholism and Liver ...
... of alcohol. A liver transplant is the only known cure, yet many ALD patients are unable to get on a list for one of ... for new livers to demonstrate six months of sobriety before they're allowed to register. This not only ... continue reading -
Are You Helping Or Enabling? 7 Ways to Spot the Difference
There's no doubt that loving an addict is hard. It's natural for you to want your loved ones to succeed rather than suffer. While reaching out to help a loved one in need is certainly not a bad thing, there's a fine line between helping and ...
... from a job, letting them suffer the repercussions is more likely to prompt them to seek addiction treatment . 6 ... without enabling them. 7. Putting Their Needs Before Your Own If you're helping an addict appropriately ... continue reading -
Opioid Overdose Symptoms and Treatment
Opioids are a class of substances that includes many synthetic and semi-synthetic drugs manufactured from opiate alkaloid precursors found in the opium poppy. Some of the most commonly prescribed opioid medications— Vicodin , OxyContin , and ...
... an equally increased risk of overdose. Relapse : When a person relapses into opioid abuse after a period ... s Find Treatment tool to search for rehab centers. Many state government websites will also provide local drug and ... continue reading -
Treatment for LSD Abuse: How to Treat LSD Addiction
Psychoactive substances, by definition, change the way people think and feel. Hallucinogens do this in a unique way, by altering the way that humans sense and perceive the world—making false visual, auditory, and tactile sensations seem real. One ...
... sobriety, health, and happiness. In contrast with the highly charged, dramatic situations that transpire on TV, many ... better coping skills and techniques to prevent relapse . Medications may be administered to directly ... continue reading -
Effects of Acid (LSD): Short-Term, Long-Term, and Side Effects
What Is LSD (Acid)? D-lysergic acid diethylamide, better known as LSD or “acid,” is a hallucinogenic drug made from lysergic acid, a natural chemical found in a fungus that grows on rye called Claviceps purpurea . LSD was first created in 1938 ...
... , and overdoses are rare. 2 ,3,4 , 5 As with many drugs of abuse, young men may appear to be disproportionately impacted by ... are used to change problematic behaviors and support sobriety. If you or a loved one needs help ... continue reading -
instagram-drug-dealers
Social media platforms operate in a Wild West world of limited regulations, often hiding behind the shield of user privacy to avoid taking action against predatory accounts, spammers, and misinformation campaigns. This neglect and hands-off approach ...
... the ease of finding drugs for sale on social media outlets. Not surprisingly, it didn't take long to find other users willing to sell harmful substances in dangerous quantities. Read on to uncover more of our research. continue reading -
COCKTAILS & CALORIES
How to Find Help for Alcohol or Drug Misuse If you or someone you love is struggling with substance misuse, rest assured that help is available and recovery is possible. To learn more, contact a caring admissions navigator with American Addiction ...
... is struggling with substance misuse, rest assured that help is available and recovery is possible. To learn more, contact a caring admissions navigator with American Addiction Centers (AAC) for free at . You can also ... continue reading -
Total Alcohol Consumption in 2021
How to Find Help for Alcohol Misuse or Addiction If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol misuse, it may be time to seek help. Professional alcohol treatment programs can give anyone battling alcohol addiction the tools needed to face life's ...
... admissions navigator with American Addiction Centers (AAC) free at at any time, day or night, to learn more about substance misuse and treatment. You can also check your health insurance coverage using the form below or ... 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 ...
... also led by a professional and has been shown to be more effective than other forms of intervention. The focus of CRAFT ... —at minimum—could be severe enough to trigger relapse or even be medically dangerous in some cases. ... continue reading -
Xanax Turned My Life Upside Down
“It's the worst mistake I've ever made. I wish I had never gotten that prescription filled.” That's the regret Kelly says sums up her experience with Xanax . At the age of 20, Kelly says she didn't realize what she was getting into when her ...
... almost always on the go, so that's a pretty impressive feat. More than once, my friends told me I was drooling out of the side ... Xanax . “I was anxious - even more than I was before starting the drug. I couldn't sleep. ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Concerta Abuse
Simultaneous abuse of Concerta—a central nervous system stimulant—and alcohol—a depressant substance—can have numerous effects on the body. Unbeknownst to many users, each substance can effectively increase the dangers of the other. ...
... body and brain despite the subjective sense of sobriety, which can subsequently lead to excessive drinking and ... drugs such as Concerta. Therapy will address relapse prevention skills, as well as aftercare planning ... continue reading -
Flexeril Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Flexeril? Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) is a central nervous system (CNS) muscle relaxant commonly prescribed as short-term treatment for muscle injuries, pain, spasms, and tenderness. When it is taken as prescribed, Flexeril's side effects are ...
... well as encourage the use of healthy coping skills . Many inpatient treatment programs are set in residential facilities on a ... emphasizes relapse prevention to maximize a person's chances of sustained sobriety. This ... continue reading
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