Approximately 16 million adults in the United States used prescription stimulants in the past year. Drugs such as Dexedrine, Adderall, Ritalin, and Concerta are generally used for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or narcolepsy. These medications stimulate the brain and central nervous system to give you a temporary boost of energy and increase alertness. When used […]
21
Jul
Jul
When we are born, no one knows whether we will develop a substance abuse problem but we can make a prediction based on predisposing characteristics. The chances of developing substance use disorders are typically based upon three major factors: biological, psychological, and sociological. These factors can mean the difference between a person who uses substances […]
19
Jul
Jul
Journaling is a very effective way to express your thoughts while keeping them private. It allows you to discuss difficult things, track your progress, reflect, and hold yourself accountable. Your journal is a safe space for you to be as candid as possible without worrying about being judged. It is a great way to relieve […]
17
Jul
Jul
Feelings of guilt and shame are common for those in the throes of addiction. There will be countless times throughout your recovery where you will reflect on your past and, if you do not know how to manage the feelings of guilt that come with that, that reflection can lead to a world of self-doubt, […]
15
Jul
Jul
Substance abuse intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) offer services for people who are suffering from drug and alcohol addiction but do not require medically supervised detoxification or 24-hr supervision. IOPs share some similarities with residential treatment programs, but the structures of the two are vastly different. IOPs allow you to continue direct services while adjusting to […]
13
Jul
Jul
When a person has both a mental disorder and a drug or alcohol problem, they are considered to be dually diagnosed. It is not uncommon for people to experience both conditions—about 50% of people who have a mental or substance use disorder end up suffering from the other at some point in their lives. Co-occurring […]
11
Jul
Jul
As of 2019, nearly 500,000 people have died from an overdose involving prescription or illicit opioids. HBO explores this opioid epidemic in their latest documentary, The Crime of the Century. The opioid crisis has taken a toll on communities all across the United States, from major urban cities to small-town America. Tragically, the number […]
09
Jul
Jul
Prescription depressants are substances that are typically used to relieve anxiety, muscle spasms, seizures, and insomnia. They depress the normal function of the central nervous system and often induce sleep. They come in pill, tablet, capsules, and liquid form. Examples of depressants include alcohol, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, marijuana, and inhalants. If taken correctly, they can increase […]
05
Jul
Jul
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health problem that people develop after they have experienced or been exposed to a life-threatening situation, serious injuries, or are exposed to violence. People develop PTSD from many things including combat, physical or sexual assault, natural disasters, abuse, and health problems. PTSD can develop at any age and […]
03
Jul
Jul
Choosing an addiction treatment program is one of the most consequential decisions you will make during your journey to sobriety. The program that you select will be the foundation for your recovery, so it is imperative to choose one that addresses your individual needs. Most treatment programs fall into two categories: inpatient treatment or […]