Methamphetamine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant with a high risk of dependence and addiction. In addition to the extremely severe side effects and health concerns associated with meth abuse, it is not uncommon to discover the existence of a co-occurring mental health issue. The addiction intensifies the mental health condition, which complicates and…
Transitioning from treatment for a substance use disorder to regular life as you once knew it could be a challenging and emotional path. It can be difficult to always make the wisest and safest decisions during this delicate yet pivotal time. A sober home in Massachusetts can help you bridge the gap between the Boston,…
It may sound innocent enough and no different from the process of finding a new family doctor or a specialist to treat a particular ailment, but doctor shopping is more sinister than that. The CDC defines the term doctor shopping as “obtaining controlled substances from multiple healthcare practitioners without the prescriber’s knowledge of other prescriptions,”…
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, meaning it slows down the central nervous system. Like any depressant, alcohol can help people relax and relieve tension when used in small doses. However, alcohol addiction occurs when people can’t control their drinking and turn to alcohol to cope with life’s problems. People struggling with alcohol addiction…
Therapy and counseling are the cornerstones of addiction treatment. Withdrawal from drugs or alcohol can leave lasting effects on an individual. Without the proper levels of care through addiction therapy programs, a person is at high risk for relapsing. Finding the right addiction therapy program for your individual needs is essential. Any professional treatment center…
Marijuana is legal in many areas of the United States, and its use has become somewhat normalized. However, it is possible to develop a chemical dependence on or even an addiction to marijuana that’s serious enough to require marijuana addiction treatment. Health risks increase when marijuana is mixed with alcohol or consumed in high doses.…
Have you noticed changes in a loved one that make you believe they are using alcohol or drugs? It can be tough to tell if someone is addicted. Those struggling with a substance use disorder may try to keep their behavior a secret. They may lie about how much they’re using. They may even deny…
If you are struggling with a substance use disorder, staying sober is an everyday challenge. Even if you have enjoyed a successful rehab and are in recovery, the potential for relapse is always there. Knowing the signs of relapse can help you be proactive and get back on track before you fall into a full-blown…
While millions of people in the United States meet the criteria for substance use disorders, only a small percentage receive treatment. Several factors contribute to this gap, but many people don’t pursue treatment because they aren’t sure if they can take time away from their jobs. An employee assistance program, a benefit offered by many…
A highly addictive stimulant, cocaine produces potent withdrawal symptoms that may be hard to recognize. Withdrawal from cocaine doesn’t present the physical, life-threatening symptoms that people can suffer when they withdraw from other addictive drugs like heroin. Cocaine addiction withdrawal symptoms are primarily behavioral and psychological, but they can still lead to lasting damage if…