Most people have heard about the opioid epidemic, but many still do not understand it. The opioid epidemic refers specifically to the increasingly growing number of overdoses, hospitalizations, and deaths caused by opioids, both prescription and illegal. Primarily due to opioids, drug overdose is now the leading cause of preventable death across the nation. Opioid…
Drug and alcohol rehab programs generally fall into inpatient and outpatient categories. While both are equally focused on successful recovery, each has pros and cons, depending on your individual needs and circumstances. Most people in recovery work through the continuum of care transitionally, stepping down from higher treatment levels as they progress toward their recovery…
Cocaine is a powerfully addictive stimulant that causes significant changes in the brain and behavior. It is estimated that approximately five million Americans are regular cocaine users. What starts as recreational use or experimentation often quickly develops into a potentially life-threatening addiction with devastating consequences in all areas of life. Because of its high cost,…
Deciding to seek drug addiction treatment is the first step toward healing and living a complete, healthy life in recovery. Most who are entering rehab for the first time experience feelings of doubt, fear, and anxiety because of not knowing what to expect. These feelings are entirely normal and should not prevent you from seeking…
When you are ready to seek treatment for substance use, you will discover many levels of treatment available. A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is one valuable treatment option for you or a loved one. PHP provides a residential program’s structure and intensive treatment, but patients do not live at the treatment center. Some patients may…
If you are questioning your relationship with drugs and alcohol, an excellent first step is to take our confidential online self-assessment. This brief questionnaire is not a substitute for a professional evaluation. Still, it is an informal tool that can help you take an honest look at your substance use and its impact on your…
When researching treatment programs for substance use disorders, you will encounter multiple levels of care. An intake specialist can help you determine what level of care is best suited to your treatment needs. One popular option is an intensive outpatient program or IOP. When considering an IOP, one should consider the benefits and the potential…
Synthetic drugs have quickly become a national problem in recent years, especially among our youth. Also referred to as club drugs or party drugs, synthetic drugs are artificially manufactured, often in illegal labs. Synthetic drugs can mimic the effects of other illicit drugs, and dealers market them as safer alternatives. However, their production is unregulated,…
Inhalants are chemicals found in numerous workplace and household products that produce vapors or fumes inhaled to induce mind-altering effects. Inhalants are rapidly absorbed into the brain, creating a fast-acting high that can last up to 45 minutes if no other breaths are taken. However, many who abuse inhalants continue to take additional breaths to…
Meth is a potent central nervous system (CNS) stimulant made from amphetamine and other chemicals. It is so highly addictive that some users can develop an addiction after one use. Meth increases activity in areas of the brain that, in turn, heighten central nervous system functions. Breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature all…