two men discuss signs of cocaine addiction in a loved one

5 Signs of a Cocaine Addiction in a Loved One

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,…

person in dark wondering what are synthetic drugs

What Are Synthetic Drugs?

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,…

person rubbing their head dealing with signs of inhalant abuse

Common Signs of Inhalant Abuse

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…

person discovering the treatment options for meth addiction

What Are the Treatment Options for Meth Addiction?

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…

a pair supports each other in drug rehab spokane

How to Support a Loved One in Drug Rehab

Addiction causes significant damage to personal relationships, and the closer you are to an addicted individual, the greater the damage. When addiction has gone on for long periods of time, addiction overshadows most interactions with your loved one. This situation can create a rollercoaster of emotions. Now that your loved one has chosen to attend…

a group talks about national drug and alcohol recovery month

September Is National Drug and Alcohol Recovery Month

This September marks the 32nd annual National Drug and Alcohol Recovery Month. This year’s theme, “Recovery Is for Everyone: Every Person, Every Family, Every Community,” reminds the general public that substance use and mental health disorders have impacts that reach far beyond the individual level. It further reminds people in recovery and those who support…

a group gets the most from their rehab treatment

How to Get the Most from Rehab Treatment

Sadly, a significant portion of the millions of Americans affected by addiction never seek the professional help readily available. Rehab treatment programs offer individuals and their families the opportunity to recover and heal from substance use disorders and the conditions that often contribute to them. Addiction is a complex disease, and it can sometimes take…

a woman helps a loved one into alcohol treatment

Helping a Loved One into Alcohol Treatment

Witnessing a loved one suffer from an alcohol use disorder is painful and difficult. Trying to figure out how to help can lead to feelings of frustration, confusion, anger, fear, guilt, and worry, all of which take a toll on your well-being. Alcohol use disorders affect millions of people throughout the world. In the United…