Methamphetamine or “meth” addiction is one of the most dangerous of all substance addictions. According to data provided by the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 1.6 million Americans reported using meth in the last year. Although the average age of first use is around age twenty-three, people as young as age…
In recent years, suboxone has become a popular go-to treatment for those struggling with opioid addiction. An addiction to opioids can develop for various reasons. For some, it arises out of treatment for chronic or acute pain. Prescription opioids are frequently used to treat chronic pain (from injury or an underlying medical condition) or as…
The terms addiction, chemical dependence, and psychological dependence are often used interchangeably. In reality, addiction and psychological dependence are quite similar. Psychological dependence describes the psychological (or emotional) components of substance use disorder. These elements include cravings or behaviors that occur around the perceived need to use a substance. Psychological dependence is also sometimes referred…
Millions of Americans suffer from seasonal allergies. Additionally, a large portion of the population turns to drugs like diphenhydramine, commonly known as Benadryl, to curb the effects of allergic reactions to everything from bee stings to poison ivy. Benadryl is an antihistamine, which means it works within to body to block its responses to allergens. …
When people talk about addiction, they sometimes refer to addictions in terms of levels of severity. In other words, this person may have a mild addiction, or this person may have a severe addiction. Understanding your addiction’s severity is a critical element in helping guide you to an appropriate addiction treatment program. However, how is…
Each year millions of people around the world begin the new year by making new year’s resolutions. For many, the holiday season and the arrival of the new year signal an opportunity to purge old habits and start fresh by developing new, healthier habits. This year especially, many are looking forward to putting closure to…
At one time, addiction was considered a voluntary ailment. It was believed that when someone struggled with a substance abuse problem that it was their chosen course. They wanted to drink or do drugs. Fortunately, time has altered these ill-founded beliefs. Today, the medical community views addiction as a chronic, debilitating disease that sometimes irreversibly…
The benefits of exercise on physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health are well known. Whether you are reading a peer-reviewed journal article or looking at your Facebook feed, it quickly becomes clear how beneficial exercise is for everyone. Some people wonder what, if any, connection exists between exercise and addiction recovery. After all, it is…
Across the United States, countless families have tried as best they can to help a friend or addicted loved one get the necessary treatment they need to recover. Often those efforts are ignored or turned down for reasons nobody can understand. Unfortunately, those struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol are often unable to…
Over the last decade, approaches to addiction treatment have changed. Today, more people are seeking help from outside support systems beyond therapists, counselors, and traditional support groups. Although all of these professionals and services remain vital components of an addiction recovery team, many find they want or need additional support beyond initial treatment. Going into…