Drug Overdose Symptoms

People abuse drugs for various reasons. For some, it may be because they want to get over a difficult time. For others, it may be for recreational purposes. Whatever the reasons, it is important for you to know that drug abuse can be fatal. In the U.S. alone, 67,000 people died as a result of…

Types of Addictions

There are many misconceptions about addiction. In some cases, someone may joke that they have an addiction to something when, especially to those who are suffering from addiction, it is not a laughing matter. Although you can indeed experience addiction to many things other than illegal drugs, addiction is not merely defined by an affinity…

12 Step Approach to Recovery

The 12 step approach to recovery is a concept that has been around for over 70 years. Addiction treatment centers in California regularly adopt the 12 steps because of how effective they have been in helping individuals recover from addiction. Each treatment center has its own way of integrating the 12 steps into its programs.…

Mental Illness and Substance Abuse in Teens

Although drug abuse has declined in the past 20 years (1), teens are using certain substances, like marijuana, more than ever. Mental illness and substance abuse in teens requires treatment, as co-occurring disorders can make it difficult to live a healthy and normal life. While all teens and adolescents experience anxiety, stress, and sadness, some…

Understanding Psychological Dependence

While those who have substance use disorders (SUD) experiencing physical processes that affect their behavior, there is also a psychological component. That means that an addicted individual is mentally dependent on a substance. Psychological dependence describes an individual’s emotional and mental processes regarding SUD or drug addiction. The Signs of Psychological Dependence When you define…

Addiction and Your Physical Health

The risks associated with addiction and your physical health exist on a daily basis. This is true among people that have an alcohol use disorder (AUD), a substance use disorder (SUD) or a dual diagnosis disorder. Some people use more than one drug. If you use alcohol and also use other drugs, the consequences associated…