Cocaine vs. crack—are you clear about what the differences are between the two? Cocaine and crack are both stimulant drugs that are derived from the coca plant. While they are similar in many ways, there are also significant differences between the two drugs. Both have had a significant impact on American society, and both carry…
There are many ways to find recovery. This journey will look different for different people. Depending on the progression of the substance use disorder, the presence of co-occurring diagnoses, or many other factors, the first steps of recovery can vary. Sometimes, a medical detox is necessary. Medical detox is a process in which individuals seeking…
Drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace is a significant problem. In fact, it can have serious consequences for both the individual and the company. Substance abuse can lead to decreased productivity, absenteeism, accidents, and injuries on the job. In addition, it can contribute to an overall negative company culture. Using drugs or alcohol at…
Marijuana is the most commonly consumed drug in the U.S. While it is widely used, it still can cause negative effects with prolonged use. One of the most significant areas of the brain that can be impacted by marijuana use is memory, and short-term memory in particular. It’s important to understand the risks associated with…
Ever been mesmerized when looking at something? Pre-occupied with hunger or thirst, unable to focus on anything else, or stuck in your thoughts about the loss of love? Addiction to alcohol and other drugs is like that. In fact, it hijacks the brain, making it very difficult to focus on anything else. It’s vital to…
Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is a type of psychotherapy used in addiction recovery. Psychologist Marsha M. Linehan developed the therapy to treat suicidality. Now substance abuse treatment centers in Tampa, FL, and elsewhere, use DBT techniques as first-line treatment for severe forms of mental disorders. They include those who don’t respond to standard treatments, such…
Helping an addict can be a challenging and overwhelming process. When someone you love is suffering from an addiction, it can create a confusing and frustrating combination of emotions. The unique set of stresses that come with proximity to addiction can feel overwhelming, but there is help. There are ways to manage your own life…
The opioid epidemic covers a lot of different drugs, including heroin. Heroin induces a euphoric feeling when injected, snorted, or smoked. Like other opioids, a person runs a very high risk of overdosing the longer they use. Recognizing the physical signs of heroin use gives you a better chance of helping someone before that happens.…
In our society, alcohol use is legal and widely accepted. In moderation, many adults consume alcohol responsibly, but used in access, alcohol can create a litany of problems. One of the ways that alcohol use can escalate to becoming extremely problematic is when alcohol is mixed with prescription drugs. Though these medications are often prescribed…
Although cannabis can now be used recreationally in many states across the country, it doesn’t mean that’s it’s a perfectly safe and consequence-free drug. Alcohol is also legal, and it comes with a host of health issues associated with abuse. Although we think of alcohol as the more devastating substance, marijuana can also wreak havoc…