Drug and alcohol addiction, often referred to as a substance use disorder (SUD), is a chronic, relapsing brain disorder. While this disease can significantly damage relationships, it's vital as a loved one of someone with an addiction that you approach conversations with empathy and understanding. Making harmful statements to a person with a substance use disorder (SUD) can sabotage their sobriety and healing journey.
In 2023, approximately 54.2 million Americans needed treatment for their drug or alcohol use disorder, yet only 23% of them received it. A substance use disorder (SUD) is a chronic, relapsing brain disorder that affects the mind, body, and soul. September is National Recovery Month, a time to spread addiction awareness and celebrate the strength of those in recovery from substance abuse.
The misuse of prescription stimulants among college students and professionals has continued to escalate over the years. These substances, also known as study drugs, have been abused for cognitive enhancement and academic purposes. While these are prescription medications, non-medical use of stimulants and nootropics has led to the development of long-term addiction and dependence.
While having an alcoholic drink at lunch every day is not necessarily a definitive indication of alcohol abuse, it could be a warning sign. Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder (AUD), is characterized by a lack of control over alcohol use, increased tolerance, dependency, and persistent cravings.
Hard seltzers have become increasingly popular alcoholic beverages, especially for those who prefer a lighter alternative to traditional cocktails or beer. However, like any alcoholic drink, there is a risk for overconsumption, dependence, and alcohol use disorder (AUD) when drinking hard seltzers.
'Hot boxing' is a term used to refer to the practice of smoking marijuana or tobacco in an enclosed area to intensify the effects. While this practice may not seem life-threatening, it can be more dangerous than most realize, leading to oxygen deprivation and carbon monoxide poisoning.
'Sherm drugs' also known as 'sherm sticks' or 'fry' are street terms for marijuana or tobacco cigarettes dipped in PCP (phencyclidine). Phencyclidine (PCP), also known as 'angel dust', is an illicit drug that is a combination of a stimulant, depressant, hallucinogen, and sedative. The use of sherm drugs and laced cigarettes is a dangerous threat, posing severe health risks and adverse side effects.
Gas station heroin is a colloquial term for over-the-counter substances that mimic the effects of opioid drugs like heroin and morphine. Tianeptine, an antidepressant drug with opioid-like effects, is often sold at gas stations, smoke or vape shops, and online. The risks associated with gas station heroin aka tianeptine can be hazardous, including addiction, overdose, mental health disorders, liver damage, and heart complications.
Substance abuse, particularly injecting illicit drugs intravenously, has been associated with a surge in a deadly heart infection. Injection drug abuse can lead to various cardiovascular problems, including collapsed veins, bacterial infections of the heart valves and blood vessels, and infective endocarditis (IE).
Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) is a condition characterized by a second set of withdrawal symptoms many individuals experience following the initial withdrawal process. Following drug detoxification treatment, prioritizing ongoing recovery support and treatment is essential for preventing relapse and PAWS.
Blogrtucker2024-01-13T18:59:39-05:00