Synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl or carfentanil, refer to a class of psychoactive drugs that bind to opioid receptors and alleviate pain in the same way naturally occurring opiates do. While naturally occurring opioids are derived from the opium poppy plant, synthetic opioids are manufactured...
Peer pressure and substance abuse are closely related because one of the most common motives for first-time substance abusers is peer pressure. The desire to fit in and be accepted by one’s peers contributes to the ever-growing amount of individuals struggling with drug and alcohol...
Are you scared of going to rehab? If so, you’re not alone. In fact, it’s perfectly normal to feel a little anxious and fearful before going to an addiction treatment center. After all, you’re about to embark on a journey to a completely new life,...
Alcohol abuse is a serious issue. Oftentimes, it is difficult to distinguish between typical alcohol abuse and something more severe. When it comes to alcohol addiction, there are two common terms: alcohol abuse and alcoholism. While these terms might be used interchangeably, they are both...
The complex disease of addiction not only affects your physical body but it also leaves devastating emotional and mental consequences. Oftentimes, individuals struggling with addiction suffer from an inner battle with feelings of isolation and shame. These negative emotions are known to be a major...
Even though kratom is readily sold at gas stations, vape stores, and even specialty kratom and kava stores, the substance was once used medicinally. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has warned consumers to avoid using kratom because there are no FDA-approved uses and...
Stimulant is a broad term referring to a variety of drugs that increase activity in the central nervous system and the body. Often referred to as psychostimulants or uppers, stimulant drugs are known to cause pleasurable, invigorating, and sympathomimetic effects. However, individuals who frequently use...
Oftentimes, people give drugs “street names” that may sound so inconspicuous that you wouldn’t know they were referring to a drug. Take cocaine, for example, which is often referred to as “snow” or “white girl”. While some people may have heard these street names before,...
For individuals who are seeking to recover from the effects of addiction and substance abuse, getting sober is the primary focus. While getting clean is a very important step, comprehensive substance abuse treatment plans incorporate more than this initial goal. For example, these treatment plans...
Depression is a serious mental health condition that causes people to suffer from persistent and chronic feelings of worthlessness, sadness, and unhappiness. People who struggle with depression are at risk for a variety of additional medical conditions, ranging from diabetes to heart disease and alcoholism....
