CAN AN OVERDOSE BE UNINTENTIONAL?
In the past, a drug overdose was a somewhat rare occurrence. Now our nation grapples with an epidemic of overdose deaths, claiming tens of thousands of lives per year. In 2017, more than 70,000 Americans died due to a drug overdose, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Whether it is an intentional or accidental […]
COMMONLY USED DRUGS THROUGHOUT THE USA
Annually in the United States, The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration performs a study to evaluate drug trends across the country. The most recent National Survey of Drug Use and Health is from 2016, and found that nearly 30 million Americans use illicit recreational drugs every year. Marijuana Marijuana is not only a […]
HOW BEING OVERWORKED CAN CAUSE OVERINDULGENCE IN ALCOHOL
Hard workers always tend to get ahead; as a society, we value hard work and a solid work ethic, but when does a healthy work ethic cross the line into a compulsive behavior? True workaholics may not be able to stop working once the day is over, and may exhibit any of the following signs: […]
HOW SUBSTANCE ABUSE IMPACTS THE FAMILY UNIT
Substance use disorder can cause increased tensions in a family, which often leads to stress and negativity, as well as feelings of instability. If you make drugs or drinking a priority, you’re putting your family second and it won’t go unnoticed. Being absent from family functions or activities could also result in feelings of distrust […]
DENYING AN ADDICTION AND PROLONGING RECOVERY
Denial is a very common defense mechanism, and is usually the first reaction when confronted with the truth, especially when it comes to an addiction. Most people who are struggling with substance use get stuck in a rut where they try to convince themselves and those around them that substance use isn’t negatively affecting their […]
IMPORTANT THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CO-OCCURRING ILLNESSES
Throughout the United States, every 6 out of 10 people who struggle with substance use disorder also experience a different type of mental health issue at the same time. This is called a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder, and listed below are facts you may not know about them: There isn’t a single type of […]
CAN ANXIETY BE A TRIGGER FOR DRUG AND ALCOHOL USE?
Substance use disorders and mental health are often two peas in a pod. At times it is difficult to separate one from another. More often than not, each condition gradually worsens the other. Over 50% of individuals suffering from a substance abuse disorder have what is considered a dual diagnosis. The term dual diagnosis is […]
DEFINING ADDICTION
Addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease defined by a physical and psychological dependence on drugs or alcohol. When an addictive disorder has formed, a person will pursue their toxic habits despite putting themselves and others in harm’s way. Defining Addiction An addiction heavily impacts the way a person thinks, acts, and feels. Many people […]
SEASONAL ADOLESCENT ALCOHOL ABUSE
A season known for barbecues, pool days, flip flops and family vacations, summer is a popular time for activities with friends and family. But with all the parties and picnics also comes the unlimited supply of alcoholic beverages – often tempting children and teens. Seasonal Adolescent Alcohol Abuse Each summer, over 11,000 kids try alcohol […]
DEFINING ALCOHOLISM
There is no “one size fits all” cause for defining alcoholism. In reality, there are multiple risk factors that play a part in the development of an alcohol addiction. These factors interact differently within every individual, leading to alcohol abuse disorders in some but not in others. Psychological Factors Many people who suffer from psychological […]
