Why You Shouldn’t Use the Word “Addict”
Addiction is a disease. As such, it is essential to use language that frames it as a health issue to show respect to those with addiction and their loved ones. A person shouldn’t be labeled by their disease. We have a choice when we communicate and there are several commonly used words surrounding addiction that […]
What Does an Alcohol Detox Look Like?
Detox from alcohol is often the first step in the journey to recovery. Alcohol use left unmanaged may lead to uncomfortable and potentially fatal alcohol withdrawal symptoms. However, there are ways to safely detox from alcohol, and withdrawing from alcohol should always be managed in the presence of medical professionals. What Is Alcohol Dependence and […]
The Dangers of Detoxing at Home
Overcoming substance use disorder (SUD) and dependency is essential to short-term and long-term health. However, stopping the use of substances may not be easy. People who use substances for an extended period are at risk of withdrawal symptoms due to the brain becoming dependent on drugs or alcohol to regulate the body and emotions. Detoxing […]
Fentanyl and the Effects of Its Use
In recent years, there has been a spike in opioid-related deaths, specifically synthetic opioids. This increase in synthetic opioid-involved deaths is due to higher amounts of fentanyl findings in drugs. According to the CDC, drugs are testing positive for fentanyl, but not with fentanyl prescribing rates. These rates lead to the conclusion that fentanyl is […]
The Risks of Prescription Opioid Use
In the United States, doctors are prescribing higher rates of opioids. Prescription opioids are most commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain but can be highly addictive. When safely taken for a short amount of time, prescription opioids are generally safe to use. However, the misuse of prescription opioids has harmful effects and can […]
The Effects of Isolation on Opioid Use
Isolation with opioid use is extremely dangerous. It is common for those with substance use disorder to use on their own. With the outbreak of COVID-19, the number of people using substances has increased. There are several reasons someone may use opioids on their own or feel the need to return to opioid use after […]
The Unintended Effects of Methadone
Methadone is a medication used to treat opioid use disorder and is typically part of medication-assisted treatment (MAT). When taken as prescribed, methadone can be safe. However, it is also highly addictive. Someone who uses methadone may not believe they have become addicted or dependent on the medication due to it being prescribed and treatment […]
The Effects of Amphetamines on the Mind and Body
Amphetamines are potent, highly addictive stimulants. They are recreational drugs either legally produced, including prescriptions, or illegally produced which is typically in the form of methamphetamine. They can affect the chemicals in the brain, which can lead to a substance use disorder. Amphetamines also have detrimental short-term and long-term effects on the body and can […]
How to be Supportive on Veterans Day
Veterans Day is intended to honor all living veterans who have served in the United States armed forces and the sacrifices they made. Unfortunately, those sacrifices can live with veterans long after they return from war, with many veterans suffering with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use problems. What is PTSD? Post-traumatic […]
