Recovery From Addiction Quotes

Addiction is an Emotional Disease With Far-Reaching Effects…

Spouses, family members, friends, and coworkers are often flooded with emotions as they watch someone they care deeply about struggle in the grip of addiction. But here's something you may not realize: many of the emotions a loved one feels are the ...

... the hopes and dreams of a person who is incredibly important to them. Just like the person suffering from addiction, they may ask themselves, “Why me?” After all, nobody wants to see a loved one suffer. However, no ... continue reading

The Financial Toll of Addiction

If you've ever known someone who has suffered from addiction or have been that person yourself, you'll know how much of an emotional toll it can have on you and your loved ones. It can put a strain on your relationships and affect both your personal ...

... you've ever known someone who has suffered from addiction or have been that person yourself, you'll ... recovery, you could continue to experience the financial impact of your addiction for years. Over a lifetime, addiction ... continue reading

The Thief, Pt. II: 7 Things Addiction Steals From Our Loved Ones

Addiction is often referred to as a family disease—and for good reason. Contagious in its misery and destruction, the disease of addiction has the ability to sabotage anything we hold near and dear to our hearts. When friends and family are ...

... using, trying to use or thinking about using. Whether it's a week or a decade, the time that addiction steals from our loved ones is something no one will ever get back. 3. Trust When our morality hinges on feeding our ... continue reading

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 ...

... has openly admitted to heroin addiction. She has even claimed that she and John Lennon were kept from receiving deadly quantities of it ... use problems on the road to recovery. American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading ... continue reading

Cocaine Addiction: Have Scientists Finally Found a Cure?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that an estimated 1.5 million Americans use cocaine. In 2015, our nation saw more than 6,700 cocaine-related deaths. Research indicates that around 40% of drug-related emergency department visits involve ...

... are less than ideal. Medication-assisted treatment, or MAT , has helped countless people achieve recovery from opioid addiction. Medications like methadone, Suboxone, and Vivitrol—in conjunction with therapy —are used to ... continue reading

Ibogaine: Can it Cure My Addiction?

What does it take to quit using heroin or other opioids? This is a question that is very much on the minds of millions of Americans. The scientific community continues to look for the best way to quit using drugs and everyone wants to know what will ...

... ibogaine is legal and used to help people recover from addictions. How Does Ibogaine Work? The question that remains ... Addiction If you or a loved one is battling a substance use problem, help is available and recovery is ... continue reading

5 Controversial Thoughts We Have About Addiction

Addiction is a highly controversial word that tends to stir up debate: ask 10 people their opinion on the matter and you'll wind up with 10 contrasting answers. But despite differing opinions, people are finally talking about addiction instead of ...

... you have or don't have. No one is immune from addiction. Yes, there are homeless drug addicts. But there are ... will be walked through the system toward detox and recovery. The program has been so successful that other ... continue reading

Health Effects of Drug Misuse and Addiction

Substance misuse and addiction can have serious short- and long-term effects. 1 The physical effects of drugs and alcohol vary according to the type of substance, duration of use, and method of administration. 1 Recovering from addiction can be a ...

... 19 Substances can be smoked by rolling cigarettes or cigars from the dried leaves of a drug or dried leaves mixed ... relationships. 1 Hope for recovery is available in the form of addiction treatment . Treatment may occur ... continue reading

Couples’ Drug and Alcohol Rehab for Addiction Treatment

Substance misuse is a serious issue when it affects just one member of the family, but it can be even more problematic when it affects two people who are in a relationship, live together, or are married. Drug and alcohol rehab for couples is crucial ...

... Anonymous (CoDA) is a program of recovery from codependence. 5 CoDA helps participants find freedom ... your insurance against all treatment centers in the American Addiction Centers network to see if you are covered for ... continue reading

Does Your Personality Put You at Risk for Addiction?

Are certain personality types more prone to substance abuse? Although it certainly seems so, this question has been the focus of debate for some time. It used to be believed that addiction could be explained by way of the two contrasting personality ...

... seems so, this question has been the focus of debate for some time. It used to be believed that addiction could be explained by way of the two contrasting personality types: Type A and Type B . Type A personalities ... continue reading

8 Tips for Coming Out of the Addiction Closet

To many, the term “alcoholic” carries a very negative connotation - one that implies being a loser or a failure. It's no mystery, then, why admitting such a thing is feared by so many. But “coming out” doesn't have to be a burdensome ...

... Here are 8 tips to keep in mind when coming out of the addiction closet. Tip 1: Embrace First and foremost, you must admit to ... best place to “come out” is to a recovery group who understands what you're going through. They ... continue reading

Addiction in Its Simplest Form (Short Animation)

This short animation created by Andreas Hykade breaks down what drug addiction looks like in its simplest form. It's remarkably catching and has created a buzz around the web. The bird-like creature is caught up and will not let go of the golden ...

... that can't be shaken off, such as gambling addiction, porn addiction and binge eating. The bird's sole focus is ... end than the challenge of starting down the road to recovery. Help is waiting for you when you are ready. continue reading

A Sister’s Honest Talk About Her Brother’s Heroin Addiction

Alex didn't answer the phone. He missed their father's birthday party and still wasn't answering. But Allison kept dialing. It didn't seem right, but then again, things hadn't seemed “right” for a long time. Alex had all but stopped showing up ...

... is struggling with substance misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional drug and alcohol treatment programs can start those battling addiction on the path to healthier and happier lives. To learn ... continue reading

How I Juggled Probation and Active Addiction

In 2010, I was arrested for a “DUI with Enhancements” and reckless driving. I was barely twenty-one and hadn't faced any real consequences of my substance abuse . I didn't put up a fight. After the police finally got me to pull over, I ...

... stop acting so arrogant and immature. I only drove to-and-from work and, during the day, I only drank enough to avoid ... you or a loved one have experience with active addiction and the legal system? Feel free to share your ... 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 ...

... pills be implemented as a possible addiction intervention. Progesterone Lowers Drug Seeking ... get your levels checked. Taking your hormones into account from the very beginning could improve your chances of getting ... continue reading

5 Alarming Facts About Benzo Addiction

People tend to use benzodiazepines because they work, plain and simple. A group of prescription sedatives, benzodiazepines are classified as Schedule IV in the Controlled Substances Act and are most commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, namely under ...

... actions add up to a high many people do not wish to give up , and the progression from use to abuse to addiction can occur shockingly quickly. On average, tolerance can develop after just 6 months of use, though it is ... continue reading

Voices From Both Sides of the Medical Marijuana Debate

About eight months ago, I moved to California from Texas - two states that have very different viewpoints when it comes to legalizing medical marijuana . The drug seems to be everywhere here, smoked by people walking across the street or consumed in ...

... is another who strongly opposes it. Arguments from the opposition include: Frequent use can impair ... that could hurt them Marijuana carries a risk of abuse and addiction Could lead to a lower quality of life, as well as ... continue reading

Heartbroken Parents Use Obituaries to Raise Addiction Awareness

When a loved one passes away, you want to remember them at their best. You want others to remember them at their best. You carefully select the words for their obituary to reflect their life's contributions and all the love and affection you feel ...

... died of an overdose? What if the thing that took them from this world was a lost battle with substance abuse? What do ... , at the age of 32 after a long battle with addiction. Patrick's father, Joe, explained , “We're not ... continue reading

When Does Medical Marijuana Use Morph into Full-Blown Addiction?

In more US states, marijuana is becoming legalized and socially accepted as treatment for a range of illnesses. But, like many medicines, it can lead to misuse and dependence. So, how do you know where to draw the line? Relief Turns to Habit Joseph, ...

... than any other drug. Legislation Fears In Illinois, where marijuana is weeks away from being legalized for medical use, some addiction experts fear that legalization will lead to higher rates of abuse and dependence . ... 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 ...

... for individuals dealing with and recovering from drug abuse . 10. National Abandoned ... your substance use, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional addiction treatment programs can start you down the road ... continue reading

What Every Parent Needs to Know About Adderall Addiction

Adderall is most commonly prescribed as part of a treatment plan for adolescents and teenagers with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). But more teens-turned-young adults have discovered a new use for the “smart drug”—a term used ...

... What to Expect The rapid withdrawal from Adderall causes extreme discomfort and brings on ... Adderall misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional addiction treatment can start anyone battling a ... continue reading

History of Drug Abuse and Addiction in the U.S. and Throughout the World

What Is the History of Substance Abuse Rehabilitation? As drugs have been abused for hundreds of years all over the world, their effects have been felt for just as long. For as long as drugs have been used, there have been those who have abused ...

... healthy lives. While early 20th-century society saw drug addiction as a moral flaw, it is now regarded by ... struggling with substance abuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Treatment can start anyone battling a ... continue reading

3 Thank-Yous I Owe to My Old Addiction

Life doesn't always go as planned. Especially when you find yourself in a maximum-security state prison on your first ever offense. When Life Takes an Unexpected Detour At 27 years old, I seemed to have everything in front of me: a promising future ...

... hardest times of my life, but taking a “time-out” from society really forced me to sit and think about my alcohol use ... , help is available and recovery is possible. Professional addiction treatment can help anyone battling ... 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. ...

... is available and recovery is possible. Professional treatment can start those battling substance use problems on the path to happy and healthy lives free from the torment of addiction. American Addiction Centers (AAC) is ... continue reading

6 Effective Ways to Communicate Through Addiction

As humans, we crave social interaction with one another. Communication skills pave the way for meaningful conversations, telling funny jokes or relaying our heartaches. Despite its importance, our ability to communicate is one of the first skills we ...

... body aches; your core temperature bounces from high to low. Despite having no ... Recovery While it's important to express your love, it's equally important to let him know that you do not condone or support his addiction ... continue reading

Take the Backdoor: Why Your Brain Can't Refrain From Cocaine

Ted just snorted 2 lines of cocaine. If we could see inside his brain, we'd see some pretty alarming results. The blood vessels of Ted's brain are shrinking and blood flow is restricted, diminishing his ability to think, remember, and function. ...

... , the changes to his brain may or may not heal. From Voluntary to Compulsive A recent study gives us more insight into ... misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading ... 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 ...

... so easy to get hooked. In the end, the high you feel from snorting a line of cocaine only lasts around 15 to 30 minutes, yet ... cocaine addiction, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional cocaine addiction ... 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 ...

... Tautolo (San Francisco 49ers) The former 49ers star went from being a Super Bowl winner in 1981 to living under ... word, addiction… but it really isn't. That's my truth. Tautolo, 60, is now living in a recovery house in ... 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” ...

... was a great book, but it was written partially from an autobiographical point of view. Benzedrine features heavily. Thomas ... suffering with addiction on the path to recovery. Please contact American Addiction Centers (AAC ... continue reading

How to Stay Productive at Work While Still in Recovery

We live in a very competitive society when it comes to finding a job and keeping it. Even for a person that's never tasted a drop of alcohol, it's still a challenge to find a good job and get accepted into a workplace. It becomes even worse when ...

... even worse when you're a person recovering from some form of addiction such as alcoholism, as a lot of ... anything else that'll make your work experience during recovery a bit easier, consult your boss before you make ... continue reading

Addiction Stigma: Dangers, Reducing Stigma, and Substance Abuse Treatment

Individuals with a substance use disorder—the clinical diagnosis for an addiction—sometimes feel shame or internalize the disease as a moral failing due to long-standing stigma associated with the disease of addiction. A stigma is an attribute, ...

... that can lead to detachment from individuals with SUDs. How to Reduce the Stigma of Addiction One of the most effective ... coverage , and help you begin the recovery process. Additional Resources on Health Insurance ... continue reading

Chicken vs. Egg: Which Came First, Heroin or OxyContin Addiction?

For centuries, people have debated one age old question: which came first, the chicken or the egg? While both sides of this argument have their valid points, the question itself has evolved, making its way into other areas of society, including the ...

... customers. “You don't know what's in there from batch to batch,” says Karen Simone, director of the ... misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional addiction treatment can start anyone battling a ... continue reading

What Is Addiction? Drug Abuse Information and Treatment Help

Addiction is defined as a chronic, yet treatable medical disease that is characterized by the repeated, uncontrollable use of substances. When a person has an addiction, they continue using alcohol, medications, or illicit drugs regardless of the ...

... to a person developing an addiction to drugs or alcohol. These factors may stem from various areas, including a ... treatment facility 24/7 to focus on their recovery. They also receive constant supervision and highly ... continue reading

Why Don’t We Have Addiction Vaccines?

After three decades of research, people with addiction still have few medication options. While there are a handful of modestly effective FDA-approved drugs to treat alcohol, nicotine and opioid-use disorders, there are none at all for cocaine, ...

... your journey toward recovery. How Addiction Vaccines Would Work An effective addiction vaccine would kill ... just going to enforce the inability to receive any benefits from taking the drug.” 4 Current Options Are Few and ... 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 ...

... hangover or comedown from that last binge. Depending on the severity of your addiction, you might need ... 's a pretty amazing feeling. You will reap the rewards of recovery in all areas of your life. How to Get Help for Drug ... 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 ...

... are always providing links to valuable information or sharing their stories of addiction and recovery. By tapping into an online network, you expand your ability to learn from others. And knowledge is power. It's a Great ... continue reading

Depression and Substance Abuse: Symptoms, Statistics, and Treatment Programs

Depression and addiction often go hand in hand. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) found that, in 2020, an estimated 17 million American adults experienced both substance use conditions and mental health concerns. 1 Having more than one ...

... —offer temporary and permanent living arrangements with others who are in recovery from addiction. 2 Support groups : Alcoholics Anonymous, SMART Recovery, and Narcotics Anonymous are common support groups. 2 Medication ... continue reading

10 Ways Drug Abuse Hurts You and Those Around You

Most of us have heard countless times that drug abuse isn't beneficial—the word “abuse” is in the name, after all. But a lot of people don't realize just how dangerous it can be, both to the person using and the people that person loves and ...

... can make you perform poorly the duties you'd otherwise excel at. In the long run, desperation from addiction can lead to stealing, lying, excessive absences, and other undependable behaviors that an employer will find ... continue reading

Unchain My Heart: The Real Impact of Booze

Anyone who has experienced alcohol abuse firsthand knows how heartbreaking it can be. The emotional and relational damage left in its wake is devastating. Did you know this “heartache” is more than figurative? Believe it or not, the abuse of ...

... internal bleeding. Treatment for Alcohol Misuse and Addiction Alcohol abuse and addiction can have devastating health effects if left untreated. Recovery from alcohol addiction is possible for anyone with the right help ... continue reading

Everything You Need to Know About Alcohol and Drug Rehab

Entering into treatment for substance abuse can seem like a daunting endeavor. You may not be sure how effective it will be or what it actually entails, and then there's the issue of paying for it! With all these unknowns, rehab can feel ...

... soon realize how much help and support you'll be receiving during your recovery. You Can Afford It The cost of addiction treatment varies from center to center, but almost every program will offer various payment options ... continue reading

Facing Reality: 8 Shocking Drug and Alcohol Abuse Statistics

It's no secret that drugs and alcohol can have detrimental consequences on your mind, body, and life. They are indiscriminate in who they affect; anyone who abuses alcohol or drugs is at risk for developing an addiction. Although they are sometimes ...

... disorder. 8 This means that about 20 million people suffering from addiction to drugs or alcohol went untreated. Those who don't enter recovery programs are at risk for developing or exacerbating mental health disorders ... continue reading

Planning an Intervention? 5 Things You Need to Know

Watching a loved one suffer from addiction can be a difficult and painful experience. You want to offer your help and support, but you may not be sure where to start. If you're considering planning an intervention for your loved one's addiction, ...

... . When Is an Intervention Needed? Those suffering from addiction are often in denial and struggle to face ... Levels of Care in Addiction Treatment Recommended Drug and Alcohol Recovery-Related Articles NCADD: National ... continue reading

The Other Side of Suboxone

It's become a commonly prescribed medical treatment for opioid addiction . In some cases, doctors prescribe Suboxone with the intention of stabilize those struggling with continued, compulsive abuse of illicit or prescription opioids to then, one ...

... , it's an opioid substance used to treat recovery from other opioids. Suboxone's primary active component is ... for abuse, which can further an individual's addiction and recovery struggles. No matter where you stand on the ... continue reading

Common Street Names for Drugs

People actively misusing legal or illicit substances use slang terms for many reasons—ranging from avoiding detection by law enforcement to ensuring privacy in written and verbal communication. If you suspect that someone you love is misusing ...

... more about the substances that a loved one is misusing can be a good step toward helping them in their recovery from drug abuse or addiction . If you know or suspect a drug problem, you may wish to consult with an ... continue reading

Over 1 in 10 Americans admit they have had a drinking problem at one stage of their life

Based on a survey of 2,560 Americans (aged 21+; Google surveys August 2020). State % Alabama 4 Alaska 29 Arizona 17 Arkansas 12 California 19 Colorado 23 Connecticut 10 Delaware 15 Florida 18 Georgia 10 Hawaii 14 Idaho 25 Illinois 14 Indiana 11 Iowa ...

... disrupted due to pandemic protocols, such as working from home. DrugAbuse.com, a provider of drug and ... which may be triggers for drinking problems. If you are in recovery or know of someone who is, be mindful that a past ... 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 ...

... outside observers “saw far fewer differences between the participants' sober and drunk 'personalities.'” From the outside, participants appeared somewhat more outgoing (extraversion). That was it. No major personality ... continue reading

First Responders Worry About Accidental Fentanyl Exposure

Fentanyl. It's known to be 50 times more potent than heroin, and a speck the size of a few grains of salt can kill. By now, you've probably heard of this beast and the toll it's taken on so many lives around the country. A whopping 5554 people ...

... to take extreme precaution. The danger extends to first responders, as well - especially when handling evidence intercepted from the scene of a crime. The scary thing is, fentanyl can be absorbed through the skin or ... continue reading

New Study: Amphetamine Abuse and This Old Heart

It's called speed for a reason. Amphetamines, like Ritalin or Adderall, accelerate your heart rate. They send your nervous system into overdrive. Guess what else it speeds up? The aging process. That's right. Pumping your system full of amphetamine ...

... . Heart valve disease: As the heart ages, the valves may not operate fully. This decreases blood flow from your heart. Congestive heart failure: As your heart and arteries become less effective, blood no longer travels ... continue reading

You’re Not a Victim: 5 Ways to Break Out of This Role

When struggling with substance abuse , it's tempting to feel like the victim. Things are rough. Your life is probably in shambles. Your loved ones have likely distanced themselves from you. Things are falling apart. The question is - how do you ...

... feel like the victim. Things are rough. Your life is probably in shambles. Your loved ones have likely distanced themselves from you. Things are falling apart. The question is - how do you respond? It's Not My Fault… Do ... continue reading

Pop Quiz: Let’s Test Your Benzo Knowledge

In 2013, 13.5 million adults filled a benzodiazepine prescription in the US. These drugs are used to treat anxiety, depression, insomnia and seizures. They are also highly addictive and frequently abused. How much do you know about this class of ...

... with benzos? What are the most widely abused benzos? Can you legally drive while using benzos? How long does it take to detox from benzos? How do benzos work in the body? Who should not take benzos? Image Source: iStock continue reading

Let's Talk About the Elephant Tranquilizer in the Room

It's 10,000 times more potent than morphine. It's 100 times more powerful than fentanyl . What is it? Carfentanil. Designed as a tranquilizer for elephants, this deadly substance has made its way into our nation's illegal drug market. It's often ...

... responders are finding that even multiple doses of naloxone aren't always capable of bringing someone back from an overdose when carfentanil is involved. With overdoses mounting, the DEA scrambled to issue a warning to ... continue reading

Want to Make Your Asthma Worse? Here’s How…

Tracy's romantic evening took a turn for the worse. She was enjoying a lovely Italian dinner with her boyfriend when she suddenly started wheezing. She quickly set down her wine glass and reached for her inhaler. The medicine started working, but ...

... also trigger asthma symptoms. Catching Your Breath Those with asthma know this condition can be anything from a minor annoyance to a life-threatening illness. Understanding the potential effects of alcohol is essential ... continue reading

What Does Ecstasy do to Your Mind and Body?

The night started off exactly like the last few Saturdays…Chloe entered the club with her girlfriends. Soon after, each of them took a bundle of ecstasy. Not long after washing down her dose with water, Chloe felt the familiar effects of the drug. ...

... 's ingredients often vary, though a lot of club-goers don't realize it. Parker's stash was from a different source. Because several ecstasy ingredients are hard to obtain, makers of the drug often substitute a wide ... continue reading

Shocking Stories Reveal Serious Dangers of Flakka

There's a whole new synthetic drug “craze” sweeping the nation courtesy of a drug known as Flakka. The Drug Enforcement Agency had no reported cases involving Flakka as recently as 2010, but that number soared to 670 in 2014. While many of the ...

... users say the substance is “relatively harmless,” recent studies and reports are proving that's far from the case. Just the Facts About Flakka New findings published in the journal Psychopharmacology found that Flakka ... continue reading

Hitting the Grass Ceiling: 6 Surprising Ways Weed is Sexist

Estrogen, testosterone and THC: What do these three things have in common? Apparently, not much. Studies reveal that THC (the active chemical in marijuana) interacts differently with these three hormones. What's the result? Men and women experience ...

... ) interacts differently with these three hormones. What's the result? Men and women experience different effects from the same drug. Here's the breakdown on Mary Jane's sexism: Pain Relief: Multiple studies reveal ... continue reading

Do Women Pay a Higher Price for Smoking Weed?

Tetrahydrocannibinol, better known as THC, is the most potent component of marijuana. It's the chemical that causes feelings of euphoria and makes users feel “high.” When someone uses marijuana, THC quickly travels into the bloodstream, through ...

... off, women also have a higher likelihood of relapsing after quitting the drug . Study Specifics Data gathered from the Washington State University study was collected by using male and female lab rats. After 10 days of ... continue reading

Overdosing on Sleep Medication Is a Big Problem

According to a recent survey , 69 percent of primary care patients complain of insomnia and other sleep issues. To solve the problem, doctors often prescribe sleeping pills or hypnotic medications. However, many people end up using these drugs for ...

... sleep patterns. Over the last few years, thousands of therapists have been trained in CBT, making it much easier for people to locate a qualified therapist. Learn more about the dangers of Ambien abuse and addiction 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 ...

... them. You're trying to avoid the discomfort of relationships, not connect. Continued use leads to reliance, then addiction …and this cycle does not encourage intimacy. Quite the opposite. In the end, you end up close to ... continue reading

You’re Fired: Police Departments Weaning K9’s Off Marijuana

Jobs change with technology, and work tasks evolve with those advancements. New policies and developments often put people out of work. It turns out, people aren't the only ones affected by those changes. Due to new marijuana guidelines , ...

... and handlers are in disagreement about the potential success of this training. Some dogs might have to be retired from service. However, buying new K9's isn't cost effective. Training new dogs or re-training old ones can ... continue reading

Researcher Gets $431,700 to Study the Effects of Meth on Wounds

It's widely known that meth use can lead to a multitude of health problems: rotten teeth, memory loss, a weakened immune system. Nobody knows this better than Luis Martinez, microbiologist and associate professor of biomedical sciences at the New ...

... meth has on white blood cells, which play a key role in wound healing. Using images of cells in wounds from meth-injected mice, they will also study the drug's effect on the production of a particular protein gene called ... continue reading

The Price Tag of Heroin in America: $51 Billion

If you're hooked on heroin, you'll spend an average of $150 a day to support your habit. That's nearly $55,000 per year. Heroin abuse comes with a pretty hefty price tag, unfortunately personal financial burden isn't the only cash-flow issue left in ...

... use has reached the highest level in 20 years. They say it's the deadliest drug worldwide. Stats from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention support these claims. They report heroin-related overdose death s have ... continue reading

Don’t Open Wide: Pulling Dentists Off the Doctor Shopping List

Imagine you're getting your wisdom teeth removed and at the end of the procedure, your dentist hands you a prescription for a pain reliever - maybe Vicodin or Percocet . For many people, this wouldn't pose a problem. For thousands of others, ...

... NSAIDS), such as Motrin, Advil and Aleve, to relieve pain , rather than narcotics. Preventing Pain Relief and Addiction “Most patients get along just fine without opioids,” said Dr. Paul Moore , a dentist and a professor ... continue reading

Let’s Talk Genetics and the “Morning After”

It's true - hangovers are just plain awful. But new research has found that those who are genetically predisposed to alcoholism may actually hold onto the painful memory of them more than the average joe. Let's dig in… Family History Impacts How ...

... who already had a genetic predisposition to drink too much. To arrive at his conclusion, Dr. Stephens used data from two studies. The first one asked 142 people - 24 of whom had a family history of problem drinking - ... continue reading

Teens Who Drink Solo Are in More Trouble Than We Thought

Have you found yourself knocking a few back when no one else is around? A recent study calls solitary drinking into question, finding that young people who drink alone are more likely to struggle with alcoholism as they enter adulthood. Researchers ...

... glass when no one's around. Are you feeling guilty about your need to drink and thus hiding it from others? Are you trying to cope with negative external factors? Are you simply just bored? Whatever the reason, drinking ... continue reading

Let’s Clear the Air About Secondhand Marijuana Smoke

Picture this : You're at a friend's house and someone lights up a cigarette. Sitting next to her, you inhale the secondhand smoke for one minute. Over the next half-hour, your blood vessels are affected by the smoke, impaired as they recover from ...

... for one minute. Over the next half-hour, your blood vessels are affected by the smoke, impaired as they recover from the exposure. Now picture this : You're at a friend's house and someone lights a joint. Sitting next ... continue reading

Is This New Drug the Holy Grail of All Pain Relievers?

Millions of Americans suffer daily from chronic pain. Factor in all the people managing temporary pain after accidents or surgeries and you have a massive number of people on prescription painkillers. Abuse of morphine, an extremely powerful and ...

Millions of Americans suffer daily from chronic pain. Factor in all the people managing temporary pain after ... could have a huge impact on the millions suffering from chronic pain. Researchers hope to begin human trials in ... 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 ...

... it. This might include setting a quit date, telling family and friends of your plans and removing tobacco products from your home and car. It's also a good idea to talk to your doctor about medications designed to ease ... continue reading

SPIKED DRINKS

How to Find Help For Alcohol or Drug Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with substance misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. To learn more about treatment options, contact an admissions navigator with American Addiction Centers ...

... one is struggling with substance misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. To learn more about treatment options, contact an admissions navigator with American Addiction Centers (AAC) for free at . You can also ... continue reading

Study: Drug Forums Aren’t Very Helpful if You Want to Get Clean

Libraries. Encyclopedias. Professors. Doctors. Pre-Internet, these were our top sources of information. If we wanted answers, this is where we looked. Fast-forward to modern times. With access to pretty much everything now at our fingertips, we've ...

... and dish out advice. It's typically based on their personal experiences with drugs, which could drastically vary from what someone else might experience. The forum then becomes a base for possible deadly misinformation . ... continue reading

Ice Bugs: Don’t Scratch That Phantom Itch!

Methamphetamine is an extremely addictive stimulant that causes irreversible harm to the body. Manufactured from a toxic concoction of chemicals, it damages blood vessels in the brain, destroys teeth and causes severe impairment in memory, judgment ...

... gotten some sleep. However, meth is addictive and has powerful withdrawal symptoms. Once it wears off, which takes anywhere from a couple of hours to a couple of days, the cravings are more intense and drive the user to ... continue reading

Who's Smoking Weed These Days? You Asked, the CDC Answered

Close your eyes. Picture someone smoking pot. What do they look like? Most importantly, how old are they? Did you drum up an image of a teen experimenting with drugs? A college student? If so, your image needs some updating. The Centers for Disease ...

... 44-year-olds. In the 26-34-year category, 12.7 percent reported past month usage. What's even more surprising? From 2002 to 2014, the 12-17-year-old group had a 10 percent decrease in monthly usage. During that same time ... 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 ...

... their development.” Looking to the Future Although marijuana use among smokers between the ages of 12 and 17 dropped from 12 percent in November 2002 to 9.5 percent in 2003, millions of pre-teens and teenagers are still ... continue reading

What's Your Generation’s Drug of Choice? Let’s Find Out…

Every generation has its trends. From hairstyles, to music, and yes, even drugs. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) has been studying the drug habits of Americans for decades. Their survey results reveal patterns of drug use among ...

Every generation has its trends. From hairstyles, to music, and yes, even drugs. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) has been studying the drug habits of Americans for decades. Their survey results reveal ... 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 ...

... will help you to stay sober long-term and prevent relapse . For help with alcohol or drug addiction, you can contact American Addiction Centers (AAC) for free at . You can also use the form below to check your insurance ... continue reading

History Channel Explores “America's War on Drugs”

No one gets a closer view of America's war on drugs than the officers and drug traffickers who stand on opposite sides of the battle line. What really goes on behind the scenes in each camp? What kind of power struggles wage? Who's really behind the ...

... in the 60's. The goal was to protect us from communism, but was it worth the concessions made to allow ... The series explores these questions and others that arise from the power struggle among war lords, spies, street ... continue reading

Why Do Binge Drinkers Have a Hard Time with Healing Wounds?

The term binge drinking applies when a pattern of alcohol consumption results in the rapid increase of blood-alcohol content that meets or exceeds the legal limits of intoxication. Experts have known for decades that the effects of binge drinking ...

... often leading to physical injury. Whether wounds come from car accidents, trip and fall accidents, stabbings, ... binge drinking has on the body's ability to properly heal from skin wounds. To do this, they gave half of the ... continue reading

Underage DUIs: 6 Sobering Facts About Drunk Driving

Drunk driving can have serious consequences, including injury and death. If you're an underage driver, you will be slammed with a DUI (driving under the influence) charge if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level is 0.01% or higher; if you are ...

... and driving, utilize a designated driver service in your area. Opt to take a taxi, Lyft, or Uber to get to and from your destination—the cost of a ride will be much less than the cost of a DUI fine or court case. In many ... continue reading

Wait… Marijuana Can Increase My Risk of Alzheimer's??

Meet Bill. Bill smokes marijuana every day - a lot of it. From blunts and bowls to bongs and wax, there's barely a waking moment Bill isn't high. Meet Bill's Brain As we travel through Bill's cranium, we see the blood flow (in nearly all areas of ...

Meet Bill. Bill smokes marijuana every day - a lot of it. From blunts and bowls to bongs and wax, there's barely a waking moment Bill isn't high. Meet Bill's Brain As we travel through Bill's cranium, we see the blood ... continue reading

Public Restrooms Have Become Ground Zero in Opioid Epidemic

The opioid epidemic has impacted countless families, but according to a recent article on NPR.org , people aren't the only ones affected. Public restrooms have become the newest casualty in the midst of the drug epidemic sweeping across our country. ...

... , said Dr. Alex Walley, director of the Addiction Medicine Fellowship Program at Boston Medical Center. Should ... a nurse or EMT - and would be easy to unlock from the outside. Very few bathrooms currently fit this model in ... continue reading

Take My Breath Away: A Deadly Warning About Opiates

You've just taken an opioid painkiller . The medication travels to your brain, making the pain sensations stop. The same opiates also make you feel much calmer, offering up a bonus anti-depressing effect. And that's the good news. The bad news is ...

... on top of opioid medications can kill you. Watching the Brain Channel The high number of deaths resulting from opioid overdose has spurred researchers to find ways to make these drugs safer. And a recent study conducted ... continue reading

Study: Medical Marijuana Cuts Use of Prescription Drugs

A recent study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine revealed that medical marijuana users take fewer other medicines—such as opiates. Researchers monitored the use of prescription medications among participants ...

... with substance misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Rehab programs are located throughout the ... search for your state name and '.gov.' American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading treatment provider ... continue reading

You Might Want to Cut Back on the Energy Drinks. Here’s Why…

Years ago, I spent an entire summer behind a small desk in an upstairs room at my dad's house, studying for the Bar Exam. Cramming 18 different legal subjects into my head over the span of two months was no easy feat, and I quickly realized I needed ...

... in the June 2017 edition of Journal of Addiction Medicine. To arrive at this conclusion, researchers ... warn these drinks can negatively affect people in recovery, believing they can provide a convenient replacement high ... continue reading

4 Hangover “Cures” You Need to Ignore

The lights are too bright. The noises are too loud. Your head's spinning. Your stomach's in turmoil. No, it's not the flu. You have a hangover. You had a few too many yesterday, and now you're paying for it. Beware the Miracle Remedy So, what can ...

... simply not true. It's just as effective as the practice from which the saying originated: An ancient therapy for rabies was ... , you want to speed up the process of recovery. You want to feel better - now. Unfortunately ... continue reading

Gabapentin: New Drug of Abuse for People in Treatment? Risk vs. Reward

According to the Census in 2015, the United States had a total population of 321 million people. In that same year, 57 million prescriptions for gabapentin were written. Gabapentin—or its brand name Neurontin —is an anti-seizure medication which ...

... Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with substance misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading treatment provider and has trusted rehab programs across the U.S ... continue reading

3 Devastatingly Dangerous Alcohol-Drug Combos

According to statistics compiled by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), roughly 25% of substance-related emergency room admissions involve a combination of both drugs and alcohol. Poly-Drug Abuse Although heavily ...

... available. Professional drug and alcohol rehab programs can start anyone suffering with addiction on the path to recovery. You can contact American Addiction Centers (AAC) for more information free at at any time, day or ... continue reading

7 Things You Don’t Realize About Teenage Drug Abuse

It's difficult to convince adolescents of the harmful and potentially deadly effects of drug abuse. After all, teens have an exaggerated sense of invulnerability: “Nothing bad will ever happen to me, regardless of what anyone says, thinks they ...

... or a loved one is struggling with drug or alcohol misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional addiction treatment in a drug or alcohol rehab program can start anyone battling a substance use problem ... continue reading

A Straight Story on the Real Dangers of Xanax

“Yeah, I was feeling uptight before he was about to pick me up for our date, so I popped a Xanax,” said my friend. I cringed. It seemed like everyone I knew was using benzos to calm down, chill out, get through a first date, or ace a ...

... loved one is struggling with benzodiazepine misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional drug treatment programs can start those battling addiction on the path to healthier and happier lives. To learn ... 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 ...

... . How to Get Help for Drug and Alcohol Misuse or Addiction If you or someone you love is struggling with substance misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional treatment can change the life of anyone ... 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 ...

... you know struggles with drug or alcohol misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. American Addiction Centers (AAC) operates addiction treatment facilities across the country. You can contact a caring admissions ... continue reading

Could This Inexpensive Medication Reduce Your Withdrawal Symptoms?

Withdrawal. It's a huge hurdle on the path to recovery. Those struggling to leave opioids behind know they'll eventually have to face the intimidating mental and physical effects of withdrawal. It's a powerful and frightening thought. Some of the ...

... . It's a huge hurdle on the path to recovery. Those struggling to leave opioids behind know they'll eventually ... their use of these medications.” The Study Researchers from the University of Calgary's Faculty of Veterinary ... continue reading

Psychedelic Drugs and Prayer Have Similar Effects on Brain

When it comes to “out-of-body” experiences, plenty of people have reported having them during both religious awakenings and while tripping on psychedelic drugs. Although these two experiences may seem completely opposite to each other, one ...

... their entire way of life” from these experiences. His conclusions came from a study that examined the brains ... deal of uncertainty in the early stages of recovery that can be overwhelming for some people. Relinquishing ... 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 ...

... Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to cocaine, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional cocaine addiction treatment programs can start those battling cocaine use disorders on the ... 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 ...

... love is struggling with a drinking problem, help is available and recovery is possible. Drug and alcohol abuse treatment programs can start those battling addiction on the path to happy and healthy lives. You can contact ... 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 ...

... morning you will feel a lot better if you stay away from alcohol. You can both even plan something fun in the ... can be helpful to surround yourself with others in recovery. Stay Active If you are sitting around with a ... 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 ...

... don't know, Kombucha is a fermented beverage made from tea, sugar, bacteria, and yeast. It's available ... me he'd done enough work in his 20-plus years in recovery to know what he was initially going to the liquor store for ... continue reading

Workplace Drug Abuse

The Problem of Workplace Drug Abuse Of all drug users, 68.9% are employed and active in the workplace, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) . Additionally, 1/3 of all employees are aware of illegal sale of drugs ...

... need and the help they receive. Fortunately, a new online calculator from the National Safety Council allows businesses to get an estimate of how much addiction may be costing their company. This tool can help encourage ... continue reading

5 Psychological Side Effects of Percocet

Percocet is a combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone, landing this medication in a family of drugs known as opioids . They're commonly prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain and work by blocking the pain signals sent to your brain. Percocet ...

... in a downward spiral. Hallucinations: These vary greatly from person to person. You might see lights, colors ... Find resources for Percocet addiction here . You can also contact American Addiction Centers (AAC) for ... 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 ...

... the two expensive bottles of champagne that she took from the bar's kitchen, and he expected her to ... the court ordered her to go to alcohol and drug addiction rehab before the custody situation would be reviewed. 6. ... continue reading

What It’s Like to Be an Alcoholic Woman

Before the turn of the century, alcoholism was generally thought of as a “man's” problem. Things have changed a great deal since then. For years, researchers have warned that more and more women are drinking. And it's not just a spike in the ...

... alcoholic hepatitis (liver inflammation) and to die from cirrhosis. Brain disease : Research suggests that women ... treatment programs can help anyone battling alcohol addiction learn to face life's challenges without ... continue reading

San Francisco Mayor Proposes Drug Distribution to Homeless

For San Francisco, the statistics related to opioid abuse are staggering: The Department of Public Health estimates there are 11,000 people addicted to heroin in San Francisco. It is estimated that thousands of these individuals are homeless. The ...

... who are addicted to opioids. Most of these dollars would come from the city's general fund, with $900K reimbursed to the ... drug most frequently used to treat opioid addiction. Buprenorphine causes fewer side effects than ... continue reading

Recovery from Addiction Quotes

Get Sober Today