When you first stop using drugs and alcohol and seek help for addiction, you will likely experience physical and psychological symptoms of withdrawal. Most people get help from a medical detox center rather than trying to detox at home. This is because the initial withdrawal...
Benzodiazepine drugs are sedatives that have a calming effect and are used to treat anxiety and panic disorders, certain types of seizures, insomnia, and alcohol withdrawal.[1] Benzodiazepines or “benzos” are some of the most commonly prescribed medications in the United States. The most widely used...
Fentanyl is a powerful, synthetic opioid that is 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine.[1] It is sometimes used to treat severe pain after surgery or to help manage pain in patients fighting cancer. However, it has also infiltrated the illegal...
Opioid abuse is a serious problem in the United States. The latest wave of opioid abuse started in the 1990s and has risen sharply over the past three decades. The number of people visiting the emergency room because of opioid use rose 152% in the...
Unfortunately, it is extremely common to see families with multiple people who struggle with addictive behaviors. This leads many people to ask whether or not addiction is hereditary. After research and countless studies, the American Psychological Association (APA) has found that “at least half of...
Addiction is a serious condition that affects every part of a person’s life. Left untreated, addiction can quickly lead to long-term damage to a person’s physical and mental health. It keeps people from engaging fully in their lives and puts strain on relationships. Addiction also wreaks...
Xanax (alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine medication that is used to treat a range of anxiety and panic disorders. While it is effective when used as directed, the medication can be highly addictive if abused because of its relaxing and calming side effects. Xanax addiction can...
Ambien is a drug belonging to the sedative-hypnotics class. Ambien works by activating the neurotransmitter GABA, which causes the brain and central nervous system (CNS) to slow down. While Ambien is used to treat insomnia, it is only intended for short-term use. This is because...
As a nation, we owe our country’s veterans a debt of gratitude for their dedication and service. During their time in the military, our veterans sacrificed themselves fully to their service to our country and many have risked their safety without asking for anything in...
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition that causes an individual to experience distorted self-perception and extreme mood swings. Researchers estimate that up to 78% of individuals with borderline personality disorder also suffer from a substance use disorder.[1] Individuals who suffer from both BPD...
