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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 ...
... , help is available and recovery is possible. You can contact an admissions advisor with American Addiction Centers (AAC) for free at for help locating drug or alcohol addiction treatment centers near your location ... 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 ...
... 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 types: Type A and Type ... 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 ...
... couples is crucial for recovery, the well-being and health of both individuals, and the future success of the relationship. Many treatment centers offer couples' addiction treatment to help you and your loved one start ... 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 . “I ... continue reading -
Penalties and Sentencing for Drug Abuse, Selling, and Smuggling in the USA
Problematic substance use has the potential to negatively impact every area of your life. As dependence and addiction to alcohol or other drugs develop, these substances may begin to influence your physical and mental health, significantly affecting ...
... an increase in drug use rates and has been correlated with a sharp increase in individuals seeking treatment for addiction . Other parts of the world are crueler in their treatment of substance users: 10 The United Arab ... 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, ...
... vast majority of people experience natural recovery. Anti-addict stigma extends to drug development as well, says Janda. This discourages funding for potential treatments for addiction medications — “it's a moral failing ... 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 ...
... lot of the fear and anxiety associated with admitting your problem for the first time. It's Economical Virtually every form of online support for addiction/recovery is completely free of charge. If you have access to the ... 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 ...
... long-awaited hope. How to Get Help for Cocaine Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with cocaine misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading treatment provider ... continue reading -
Long-Term Alcohol and Drug Addiction Effects
The longer an addiction to drugs or alcohol lasts, the more stress and strain it places on an individual. There is an overwhelming number of long-term physical and emotional effects that drug abuse and addiction can have on a person. The following ...
... those with co-occurring mental disorders, dual diagnosis inpatient programs will provide care for the individual's addiction recovery and psychological needs. Inpatient treatment is a good way to escape the stressors and ... continue reading -
Drug and Alcohol Addiction Relapse: Stages, Prevention, and Treatment
Addiction is a brain disease that causes a person to compulsively use substances. They may continue to use even while knowing that doing so will have dire consequences. 1 While addiction is a chronic disease (similar to high blood pressure or ...
... 's treatment plan is not fully compatible with recovery for their specific needs. For example, maybe their relapse plan does not address their underlying triggers that drove their addiction . 1 No one treatment plan is ... continue reading -
The Siver Lining for Meth-Exposed Newborns Starts Here
Thousands of pregnant women in the U.S. are abusing meth during pregnancy. In fact, about 25 percent of all pregnant women seeking treatment at federal facilities are methamphetamine users. The result is hundreds of thousands of babies at risk. ...
... -exposed newborns aren't doomed to become negative statistics . How should others respond to this study? The principle for a safe and supportive environment is one that can be taken well beyond the home. In fact, experts ... 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 ...
... , 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 holidays. Holidays are also a time when people reunite with family ... 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 -
Country vs. City Addictions: Are They Different?
Urban and rural addicts don't seem to have a whole lot in common, according to a report published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). In gathering data for this particular study, researchers looked at addiction ...
... evaluated, it was clear that urban addicts and rural addicts don't have much in common. For those who believe all addictions are alike, the SAMHSA report proves otherwise. Here are some of the fascinating statistics in ... continue reading -
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 ...
... . Because guilt is such a painful and powerful emotion, people often try to make up for it by enabling the person with addiction, which only complicates matters. More than any other emotion, shame tries to strip away our ... continue reading -
Does Opioid Addiction Cause Sexual Dysfunction in Men?
A new study out of India has found that most men suffering from opioid addiction are also dealing with sexual dysfunction as a result. The research paper, titled “Sexual Dysfunction in Men Seeking Treatment for Opioid Dependence: A Study from ...
... -fifty men in total were observed, 100 of whom were addicted to opioids for at least a year and 50 healthy participants with no addiction history. After surveying all of the participants, they found that 48 percent of ... 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 ...
... fine print — the conditions I had yet to even begin. Time for a Do-Over I went back to court to request to stay ... Do you or a loved one have experience with active addiction and the legal system? Feel free to share your ... 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 ...
... of death. For some, however, this isn't enough. They want to send the message loud and clear. Joran Leavitt's mother, Robyn, wrote: Leavitt, Jordan. Webster: Lost his fight with the disease of addiction on Tues., June ... 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 Behaviors ... As you can see, hormones could be more responsible for your progression towards substance abuse than you might have ... continue reading -
What Are the Current Substance Addiction Trends Among Teens Today?
Although you might think your home is drug-free, your teenager might know otherwise. Many of the current substance abuse and addiction trends among teens today are shocking simply because they involve household products that are readily available. ...
... digital drugs. Bath salts are one dangerous teenage substance addiction trend you probably have heard of, so it's ... aerosol spray cans of whipped cream, are an easy way for teens to get their hands on nitrous oxide, more ... continue reading -
Is There a Cure for Alcoholism?
We're often asked whether there's a cure for alcoholism. Often this is by a concerned partner or friend, and sometimes it's by someone who suffers from the disease. Like many diseases, however, the answer lies between yes and no. The problem with ...
... Pavlov's dogs. Pavlov was a Russian scientist who was famous for his progressive ideas. He got a load of dogs and would ... Find Alcohol Addiction Treatment Programs Treatment can help anyone battling addiction learn to ... 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 ...
... , as well as short- and long-term goals, with a licensed treatment professional. How to Get Help for Benzodiazepine Addiction If you or someone you love is struggling with your benzodiazepine use, it may be time to seek ... 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 ...
... and family typically never feel peaceful while affected by addiction. 5. Joy Addiction is an isolating and depressing disease; not only for those suffering from addiction but also for loved ones of addicts. As our ... 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 ...
... for just as long. For as long as drugs have been used, there have been those who have abused them. As the physical and mental health implications of addiction ... , help is available and recovery is possible. Treatment can ... 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 ...
... on gabapentin. How to Find Help for Drug or Alcohol 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 ... 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 ...
... perspective . 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. Professional addiction treatment can help anyone battling a ... 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 ...
... a drug counselor. 8 How to Find Help for Adderall Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with Adderall misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional addiction treatment can start anyone battling a ... continue reading -
5 Smart Ways to Prepare for Your Friend’s Intervention
Krista is worried about Becca. They've been friends for years, so Krista can tell when something is “off” with her friend. And lately, something seems off. Krista has noticed Becca being a lot less social. She spends more time at home alone. ...
... your friend. How to Find Help for Drug or Alcohol Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with substance misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional addiction treatment can start anyone battling a ... 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 ...
... benefits can also be affected, so even after recovery, you could continue to experience the financial impact of your addiction for years. Over a lifetime, addiction can cost an addict thousands of dollars in lost ... continue reading -
Dealing with Troubled Teens: A 7-Step Guide for Parents
When we first become parents, we hear so much about the “terrible twos,” defined by some as “a period in a child's early social development that is associated with defiant or unruly behavior.” While two-year-olds may indeed be a handful, ...
... parent of an addicted child isn't something you can prepare for. Unfortunately, there's no owner's manual with all the ... recovery is possible. Professional treatment programs can give any young person battling addiction ... 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 ...
... with your addiction, getting back to work can often actually help speed up your recovery; working gives ... obvious productivity killer. If you don't need your phone for work purposes, try turning it off while you're ... 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 -
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 ...
... much different way: making out your grocery list! For anyone struggling with drug or alcohol misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional addiction treatment can start anyone battling a substance use ... 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 ...
... communities. How to Find Help for Drug or Alcohol Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with your substance use, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional addiction treatment programs can start you ... 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 ...
... least 43 times. 29. John Lennon John Lennon was arrested for marijuana possession alongside his wife, Yoko Ono, and the charge nearly ... use problems on the road to recovery. American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading ... 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. ...
... for marijuana possession and then turned to community service as a way out of drug abuse or addiction . ... , rest assured that help is available and recovery is possible. Professional treatment can start those battling ... 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 ...
... 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 American Addiction Centers (AAC) free at for help ... 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 ...
... 's okay to be angry with the addiction—you can even hate the addiction—but don't let those feelings rob you of the love you have for her. #6: I'm Willing to Support Your Recovery While it's important to express your love ... 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” ...
... drug and alcohol treatment programs can start anyone suffering with addiction on the path to recovery. Please contact American Addiction Centers (AAC) free at for help finding treatment centers near you that suit your ... 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 ...
... outcomes is important. How to Find Help for Drug or Alcohol Misuse or Addiction If you or a loved one is battling a substance use problem, help is available and recovery is possible. To learn more about treatment ... 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 ...
... for Drug or Alcohol Misuse If you or someone you love is struggling with substance misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional drug and alcohol treatment programs can start those battling addiction ... 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 ...
... needle or a liquor bottle. This debate will no doubt continue for a very long time. If You're Addicted to Drugs, You ... available and recovery is possible. Professional rehab programs can equip those battling addiction with ... 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, ...
... behavior of using the substances. 5 Risk Factors for Developing an Addiction Anyone who uses drugs or drinks alcohol can ... coverage , and help you begin the recovery process. Additional Resources on Health Insurance ... 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 ...
... K K Kit Kat Purple Special K Vitamin K Street Names for Khat Khat —This plant grown in Africa and the Middle ... a good step toward helping them in their recovery from drug abuse or addiction . If you know or suspect a drug ... 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 ...
... , if it is ignored, it may also have negative repercussions for society or your relationships. 1 Hope for recovery is available in the form of addiction treatment . Treatment may occur on an inpatient or outpatient basis ... 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 ...
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 ... continue reading -
Weed: The Vocabulary Killer
Have you ever struggled to recall a word or phrase? You know the perfect term exists for what you are trying to describe, but you can't extract that word from your brain. You might even have a perfect visual, but the verbal communication center in ...
... in 10 marijuana users currently meet the criteria for addiction. With the recent University of Lausanne study ... As use of marijuana continues to grow, it is important for people to know the risks involved. With changes in ... continue reading -
Newsflash: Tramadol Really is an Opiate
For years, tramadol was thought of as a safe alternative to opiates . It was viewed as less habit-forming and easier to tolerate than its “stronger” counterparts like oxycodone. Doctors handed out free samples of Ultram (tramadol's brand name), ...
... issue an advisory in 2010. Doctors were directed not to prescribe tramadol to anyone suffering from depression or at risk for addiction. But this wasn't enough. In fact, 2011 saw over 20,000 ER visits that were linked to ... continue reading -
Don’t Be Fooled: Tramadol Abuse Poses Very Real Dangers
Ultram. Conzip. Rybix ODT. These name brands of tramadol have recently flooded the marketplace with their painkilling properties. Since its approval in 1995, tramadol has become a household name. In 2013 alone, over 43 million tramadol prescriptions ...
... the drug. It advised doctors not to prescribe tramadol to anyone suffering from depression or at risk for addiction. The next year, over 20,000 ER visits were linked to tramadol, and 379 overdoses involving tramadol ... continue reading -
Ibogaine: Miracle Cure or Dangerous Botanical?
We all know healthcare providers and researchers are desperate to find solutions to the opioid crisis, but are they overlooking a possible cure? The answer, according to a recent article , appears to be yes. The article, which was published by The ...
... clean. Today, you can find stories all over the Internet calling ibogaine the “miracle cure” for addiction. While recent research seems to show ibogaine can significantly reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms and temporarily ... continue reading -
What Can I Do if My Mother or Father Is an Alcoholic or Drug Abuser?
One of the most common issues we hear about is that a parent has become an addict and the children don't know what to do about it. Sometimes, they're scared of being taken away from the parent if the authorities find out. Sometimes they want the ...
... flu to the point where he or she could not function, you'd take your parent to the doctor. The same goes for addiction, although it's not quite as simple to fix. How to Talk to an Addicted Parent The first thing that you ... continue reading -
Effects of Alcohol and Drugs on the Male and Female Reproductive Systems
How Do Drugs Affect the Reproductive System? Substance misuse can negatively impact the reproductive health of both sexes in several ways. It may contribute to serious health problems, such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), infertility, and ...
... such. The first step is to meet with your healthcare provider in order to determine your unique needs for addiction treatment . The abuse of alcohol and other drugs can cause serious harm to your reproductive system, as ... 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 ...
... cause 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 ... continue reading -
Are We Creating a Generation of Addicts With ADHD Medication?
During his freshman year, Jack's grades started slipping. He found it hard to keep up. He knew several classmates who used uppers for extra boosts when they needed them. In hopes of finding an endless supply of energy (and improving his grades), ...
... no big deal. How to Find Help for Drug or Alcohol Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with substance misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional addiction treatment can start anyone battling a ... continue reading -
IV Drug Use: Signs, Dangers, and Treatment
Injection is a method used by individuals who misuse drugs to obtain a quick and powerful effect. 1 Intravenous (IV) injection, or injection into a vein, is the practice referred to throughout this article as IV drug use. Injection into a vein or ...
... and experienced guidance that can make a difference on the path to recovery. If you or a loved one is looking for addiction help, American Addiction Centers (AAC) has nationwide treatment centers with a variety of ... 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 ...
... -reinforcing opioid effects of its own, Suboxone is itself sometimes a target for abuse, which can further an individual's addiction and recovery struggles. No matter where you stand on the issue, it's important ... 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 ...
... abuse, rebalancing brain chemistry and so lessening cravings for alcohol. 16. Refuge Recovery Refuge Recovery is a Buddhist path to addiction recovery, spearheaded by Buddhist teacher Noah Levine as an alternative ... continue reading -
Record-Breaking Number of Overdoses Traced Back to Bad Heroin
A dangerous batch of heroin circulating throughout the city of Chicago has caused a record-breaking 74 overdoses in the span of just three days. When the numbers began to climb at such an astonishing rate, medical professionals began to suspect a ...
... to already staggering numbers. The Illinois Department of Health reported rises in statewide heroin overdose deaths for the past four years. Heroin overdose resulted in 633 Illinois deaths in 2014 alone. Efforts continue ... 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 ...
... awareness about the devastating effects of meth use . He also hopes his findings can form the foundation for new studies that might lead to targeted prevention and wound management down the road. Image Source: iStock 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 ...
... were much more likely to develop serious alcohol problems, including alcohol dependence, by age 25. If these findings hit home for you, then maybe it's time to question why you feel the need to pour a glass when no one's ... continue reading -
Drinking Heavyweights
1 in 10 Americans consider themselves as ' heavyweight ' drinkers, reveals survey. In our social circles, there are usually three distinct types of drinkers during boozy get-togethers: heavyweight drinkers, who can take shot after shot without even ...
... speech; and lastly 'lightweights,' an often derogatory term for those who can't “handle” their liquor. While ... they're around drinking buddies, compared to drinking alone. For those men and women who say they are heavy ... continue reading -
Marijuana Mouth: Worse Than Meth Mouth?
Kim is 38-years-old; she had been smoking weed since college. Her dentist could tell. Kim had a bad case of gingivitis. Her gums were swollen and red. Her long-term use of marijuana had wrecked her dental hygiene. If nothing changes, Kim's mouth ...
... users . Researchers found that persistent marijuana use for up to 20 years was associated with greater risk ... Kim, Mark and countless others end up with marijuana mouth for several reasons . Let's take a look at three of ... continue reading -
Drunk in the Moment: We Can’t Drink Reality Away
It's a typical scenario: You had an awful day at work, so you hit the town with a group of friends, intent on drinking and dancing the night away. As you're downing a sixth shot of tequila in what will undoubtedly be an eight-shot series, you turn ...
... 's within our reach. Our admissions navigators are available to provide you with options to better cope with alcohol addiction. Call today, . The Bottom Line Despite all the technological advances we've made, there's no ... 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 ...
... . Drug Conspiracies and Alliances With so many parties vying for power in this war, it's hard to sift ... 's drug cartel, and continuing to rise is the demand for heroin and other illegal drugs.” The four-part series is ... 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 ...
... ways to soothe nerves or to take the blame for bad behaviors. Whether alcohol reduces inhibitions or ramps ... personality we choose to display. Ultimately, we're the ones responsible for our actions - so choose carefully. 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 ...
... to be affected by Alzheimer's.” Dr. Daniel Armen, study co-author, sees these results as a warning for marijuana users , stating, “Our research demonstrates that marijuana can have significant negative effects on brain ... 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 ...
... . This side effect can be especially concerning for older adults. They also worked to discover ... not exhibit the same behaviors with the new drug. Hope For the Future With fewer side effects and great pain-relieving ... continue reading -
The Dangerous (and Deadly) Effects of Spice
Natural ingredients, legal use, lower cost…it must be healthy, right? The deadly misconception above has led to a growing number of fatalities brought on by synthetic or “designer” drugs. Use of synthetic marijuana - sold under names like ...
... and 680 poison control center calls were the result of Spice use. These numbers are ten times higher than those for the same time period in 2014. And these are just New York State's statistics. The New England Journal of ... 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 , ...
... agencies taught their dogs to sniff out heroin, crack, cocaine, meth and marijuana. However, there's no way for the dogs to indicate a specific substance or the amount present. They simply alert their handlers when drugs ... 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 ...
... may be possible to exploit this lucid memory for hangovers to curb excessive drinking. Reminding problem ... drinkers of the negative consequences of incapacitating hangover, for example, letting down family members due to ... continue reading -
States Move to Ban Synthetic Urine
More and more states are moving to ban an increasingly popular mechanism used to defeat drug tests. Synthetic urine, otherwise known as fake pee, has come under fire with lawmakers , who say the liquid gives drug users a way to sidestep screening ...
... that has been fortified with a mix of chemicals (such as creatinine), salts, and yellow coloring. It typically retails for about $17 to $40 at head shops, truck stops, and on the internet. Going by names such as “Monkey ... 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. ...
... This What Ecstasy Feels Like? Continued use of ecstasy will cause Chloe and Parker to develop a tolerance for the drug. But taking larger amounts will not increase the pleasing effects - it will only up the undesirable ... 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 ...
... four hours a day on our phones? What Are We Looking For? One of our most time-consuming online activities is social media. ... using the mind and body as a personal lab for medical experiments. (User1978 tried this, so let's ... 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 ...
... 't come close to heroin abuse . COPD costs $2,567 dollars per person, for a total of $38.5 billion for all 15 million patients. The total cost for diabetes treatment is over $248 billion, but that breaks down to just $11 ... 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 ...
... could have a serious problem,” said Tommy Farmer , special agent in charge of the Tennessee Bureau Investigation. For those who come into contact with fentanyl , the onset of adverse health effects is rapid and profound ... continue reading -
Listen To Your Gut: It Could Save Your Liver
Do you know what's swimming around in your gut? Bacteria. What else is in there? Antibiotics. And no , not prescription meds like doctors give you for an infection. Your body actually produces natural antibiotics that kill the bacteria roaming ...
... affects gut bacteria, which in turn ruins our liver. Breaking Down the “Knowns” and “Unknowns” We've known for a long time that alcohol abuse causes liver damage. In fact, liver disease (called cirrhosis) is the number ... continue reading -
Home Alone: Binge-Drinking and Motherhood
Not too long ago, I had dinner with one of my high-school friends - someone I hadn't seen in several years. I remember thinking she had a picture-perfect Facebook life - a hot husband, two beautiful kids and an enormous house in Scottsdale. That's ...
... at least three times a month, consuming an average of six drinks per occasion, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . The increase in alcohol consumption isn't limited to young singles. In a recent ... 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 ...
... , the nation as a whole is not. In 2014, 2.5 million Americans over the age of 12 had used marijuana for the first time over the past year. This averages to 7,000 new marijuana users each day. The perception of marijuana ... 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 ...
... hand, don't develop a tolerance as quickly. Sex Drive: THC's interaction with estrogen is a downer for a woman's libido. For males, on the other hand, it's a little more complicated. In men, marijuana causes a spike in ... 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 ...
... friend's house and someone lights a joint. Sitting next to this person, you inhale secondhand marijuana smoke for 60 seconds. For the next 90 minutes, your blood vessels are affected by the smoke. Time Isn't on Your Side ... 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 ...
... the energy and physical abilities you should have at that stage in life. You're also at high risk for the common consequences of these conditions - heart attacks, heart failure, and stroke. Is it worth it? Image Source ... 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 ...
... something you said or did? Do it. And, don't add a “but” on the end. No excuses. Take responsibility for what you did. Own it. Apologize. Make any amends necessary. And move on. Serve Others It's hard to stay focused on ... 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 ...
... say in that impaired driver's decision to drink and drive. Vehicular accidents are the primary cause of death for teens in the U.S., 4 and compiling intoxication on top of the already high risk is flirting with disaster ... 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 ...
... testing data. We don't know what the lethal level really is. There is no therapeutic level - it's not meant for human use.” What we do know is that drug dealers are adding this potent substance to heroin . The hope is to ... 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 ...
... Federal Law According to the DEA, weed is classified as a Schedule I drug, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical benefits. In other words, it's in the same category as heroin and crack cocaine ... 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 ...
... not before Tracy began to worry the attack could be life-threatening. Her asthma had been under control for months. What happened? The Secret Ingredients Tracey is among the 25 million Americans who have asthma. This is ... continue reading -
Lock ‘Em Up: Is Jail Really the Best Deterrent to Drunk Driving?
When I was sentenced to four years in prison for drunk driving , something my prosecutor said stuck with me. He told the courtroom that my punishment would serve as a deterrent; he said stiff sentences for first-time offenders were the best way to ...
... 's car to measure the amount of alcohol on the driver's breath. Many believe that mandating interlocks for all offenders, including first-timers, will have the greatest impact. In fact, a recent report by Mothers Against ... 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 ...
... Generation X used alcohol at their peak. However, this peak didn't come until age 22. Marijuana: Pot takes second place for this generation as well. Gen Xers also saw their peak use of marijuana at age 18-20. But use was ... 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 ...
... . You had a few too many yesterday, and now you're paying for it. Beware the Miracle Remedy So, what can you do to feel ... terrible, you want to speed up the process of recovery. You want to feel better - now. Unfortunately ... 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 ...
... has naturally caused a significant amount of panic, stress and anxiety for American citizens - all of 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 -
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 ... lead to the creation of a more effective treatment method for the symptoms of withdrawal. Dr. Trang says their next ... 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. ...
... . One business quoted in the NPR article installed a blue light to make it difficult for people who shoot ... of the Addiction Medicine Fellowship Program at Boston Medical Center. Should We Make Restrooms Safer for Everyone? ... 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 ...
... , he told 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 - and he doesn't drink Kombucha for those reasons. I have a tendency to agree: I don't drink ... 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 ...
... onto the table tops. Not What You Bargained For The rationale behind using drugs is that it “ ... , not connect. Continued use leads to reliance, then addiction …and this cycle does not encourage intimacy. Quite the ... continue reading -
The Damage Done: 6 Long-Term Reminders of Meth Abuse
Methamphetamine is an extremely toxic and vile drug that produces an initial rush of euphoria and a massive boost of energy. After that first encounter, users can quickly find themselves chasing that same “good” feeling over and over again, but ...
... in drastic changes in appearance that make the user look worse for wear. Open sores, black and rotting teeth, acne and ... from meth use. Financial Difficulties Meth addiction can quickly become an all-consuming expense ... continue reading -
Heroin Use Increasing Across New Demographics, Study Finds
The face of heroin in the US is changing. As the drug becomes more commonly abused among new racial, geographic and socioeconomic groups, the profile of those users is also evolving. The change is, in part, because heroin is becoming more ...
... urban areas. Opiate Painkiller Addiction Holds Strong Despite the spike in heroin addiction, painkiller abuse is still ... for stricter regulations on their distribution, and establishing drug-monitoring programs. But for ... 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 ...
... to help you get back on the road to recovery. You can also check your insurance coverage online now ... will cover rehabilitation. Levels of Care in Addiction Treatment Inpatient Rehab Programs Outpatient Rehab Programs 3 ... 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 ...
... 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 check your ... 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 ...
... worth it? How to Find Help for Cocaine Misuse If you or someone you love is struggling with cocaine addiction, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional cocaine addiction treatment programs can help those ... 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 ...
... abuse is rampant on our streets, and the recipe of waiting for addicts to come into a clinic voluntarily is not working. Plain ... most frequently used to treat opioid addiction. Buprenorphine causes fewer side effects than ... continue reading
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