Since 1995, when the FDA approved Oxycontin (oxycodone) for medical use to treat chronic or acute pain, the abuse of prescription painkillers has risen steadily. Many believe the current opioid epidemic can be traced, at least in part, to the legitimizing of a powerful synthetic opioid by physicians, researchers, and pharmaceutical companies, without acknowledging its…
Addiction constitutes reliance on the substance in the body and mind. Physiological dependence occurs when someone doesn’t feel normal unless they use a certain drug. Other signs of this type of reliance include withdrawal symptoms when quitting. Having a physiological dependence, however, rarely happens in isolation. The physical effects of the substance also impact the…
Crystal methamphetamine, also known as crystal meth or just meth, is a highly addictive stimulant. While the legal ramifications of using meth can be severe and life-changing, the fact that meth destroys families is what might be strong enough to seek help in a meth addiction treatment program. You deserve healthy relationships, and the compassionate…
One of the most prevalent challenges faced by people struggling with addiction is the sense that they are all alone in the world. The people they depended on and cared for before they became addicted seem far from them now. In fact, those people are usually still right there. They are simply at a loss…
If you need help for substance use disorder but cannot fit an inpatient or daytime treatment program into your schedule, you may want to consider the benefits of an evening intensive outpatient program (IOP). Designed with convenience in mind, this evening alternative allows you to attend addiction treatment on a schedule that works for you.…
Whenever a person takes a drug produced outside of FDA regulations, there is no way to be sure of its contents. Fentanyl is one of the most powerfully addictive drugs—even a small amount of it can be fatal. There have been reports of Xanax, a prescription medication, being sold illicitly with fentanyl in it. This…
Reports show that more than 16 million American adults have an alcohol use disorder. Alcoholism in the workplace is also common, probably more common than you think, thanks in large part to a series of situations that contribute to rates of alcohol abuse among professionals. If you or someone you care about is struggling to…
Benzodiazepine drugs are often prescribed to individuals who need help managing mental health disorders. Many people benefit from the medications when taken as prescribed. However, if you stray outside the guidelines outlined by your doctor, you could end up becoming addicted to benzos. Some people have a hard time recognizing benzo addiction symptoms. Once you…
MDMA, or “molly” as it is often called, is a popular party drug reputed to make the user feel happy, loving, and open. The drug was developed in the 1950s and studied for its use in psychiatric therapy. The military explored using it as a way to interrogate subjects more effectively. Ultimately, it was deemed…
Drinking alcohol is normal in many circles, but not everyone can drink in moderation. If you find yourself dating someone with a drinking problem, your willingness to address the problem might save their life. End-stage alcoholics evoke pity and disgust from others, but early-stage alcoholics are often charismatic, entertaining, and quick-witted. When a person struggles…