Regular drinking and frequent alcohol intoxication substantially increase the risk of social, medical, and psychological problems. Alcohol addiction is characterized by uncontrolled dependence on alcohol regardless of the consequences. Like many other health issues, addiction is easier to treat when detected early, but many individuals go to great lengths to conceal their condition. When someone…
Drug and alcohol addiction and dependence are severe disorders that affect tens of millions of people worldwide. Over 20 million people suffer from substance use disorders yearly in the United States alone. Within the medical and mental health communities, which encompass substance use disorders, the terms “dependence” and “addiction” have often been used interchangeably, adding…
From weed and grass to ganja and Mary Jane, many monikers have been used to describe marijuana. It is an omnipresent drug in the United States and globally, making it one of the most commonly utilized substances today. In recent years, marijuana has been legalized in many states, including Washington. Many points to this as…
There are many ways a person can be vulnerable, but what does it mean to show vulnerability? I had an experience today with a coworker who shared the story of their challenges over the weekend. It was the sort of story that would normally make me want to offer advice and support, but the conversation…
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…
Methamphetamine is a derivative of amphetamine, which is a potent central nervous system stimulator. Amphetamines are prescribed to treat medical conditions like ADHD, narcolepsy, and clinical obesity, and when used properly, are highly effective. Methamphetamine, also referred to as meth, crystal meth, crystal, and crank, is commonly illegally produced in meth labs and sold as…
Prescription medications are used daily by millions of Americans to treat conditions that range from anxiety to pain management. There are numerous classifications of prescription medications, many of which have a high risk for abuse and addiction. Opioids, central nervous system depressants, and stimulants are the most commonly abused. Prescription drug addiction has been on…
Marijuana use has long been hotly debated. Its proponents have touted it as a harmless, natural, and even beneficial drug, but for every person who supports it, another opposes it. Historically classified as a Class I drug, the general perception of marijuana use has changed in recent years. It has been legalized for medical or…
Substance use disorders impact tens of millions of Americans from all walks of life. The current opioid epidemic started in the early 1990s when the pharmaceutical industry began a massive marketing campaign promoting prescription opioids like Oxycontin as being minimally addictive. In addition to opioids prescribed for pain, there has been a significant increase in…
Summertime: the days are long, skies are blue, and fun is in the air. Summer is a time of socialization full of parties, barbecues, concerts, vacations, and hanging out at the lake, pool, or ocean. For most people, alcohol is a central part of summertime activities. For those in recovery from alcohol or drug abuse,…