"Drunkorexia" is a term used to describe the comorbidity of alcohol use disorders (AUDs) and anorexia, where individuals restrict their food intake to "cancel out" the calories from alcohol. This dangerous pattern has begun trending mainly among college students and young adults, highlighting a growing demand for awareness, education, and intervention.
Treatment and recovery are two fundamental yet distinct stages in healing from substance use disorders (SUDs) and mental health disorders. Addiction treatment, often including detoxification, therapy, and medication, focuses on addressing immediate substance abuse and mental health issues. At the same time, addiction recovery is a long-term process of prioritizing health and well-being.
"Sober October" is an emerging global initiative that began as a fundraising campaign for Macmillan Cancer Support in the UK. While this is considered a month-long challenge, it can represent a revolutionary approach to combating heavy alcohol consumption and dependence.
Alcohol-related dementia (ARD) is a form of alcohol-related brain damage (ARBD) caused by chronic excessive alcohol consumption. In the early stages, reversing alcohol-related dementia (ARD) by cutting out alcohol is possible and often most successful. In more advanced stages of ARD, the damage to the brain cells may be too severe to reverse or treat fully.
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) often drives people to hide their addiction and drinking habits from others. When people with an alcohol addiction hide their bottles, it is usually fueled by the need for secrecy, shame, or simply denial. Those with alcohol use disorder (AUD) typically hide their alcohol in kitchen cabinets, under the bed, in the garage, or even in the car.
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.
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.
Chronic alcohol consumption during menopause can create a dangerous sequence, exacerbating menopausal symptoms and existing health conditions. The combination of alcohol abuse and menopause can increase women's risks for coronary heart disease (CHD), breast cancer, osteoporosis, and alcohol use disorder (AUD).
Hemochromatosis, also known as iron overload disorder, is a condition caused by genetic mutations as well as chronic liver diseases such as alcoholic liver disease (ALD) or hepatitis. The complex relationship between alcohol and hemochromatosis explores how alcohol abuse can lead to medical conditions that cause excessive iron accumulation.
Gray area drinking is a term used to describe the level of alcohol consumption that falls between social drinking and alcoholism. While social drinking might seem harmless in moderation, it can lead to inconsistent and erratic drinking patterns.
Going on vacation while in recovery or actively struggling with drug or alcohol abuse can present significant challenges and stressors. While vacations are intended to be a time of relaxation, those battling substance abuse may experience heightened emotions and exposure to new temptations and triggers.