What is the Purpose of an Intervention?

If you have a friend or loved one experiencing active addiction, you may have thought more than once about organizing an intervention. But “interventions” have been sensationalized on dramatic television programs and through other media. Sometimes, in the desperation that often accompanies loving someone who is experiencing active addiction, it can seem attractive to hold…

Read More

Heroin: A Deadly Resurgence

– J. David Hammond, MD   Philip Seymour Hoffman. Another talented young man whose battle with addiction ended his life all too soon. Whenever a public figure or celebrity dies in a public way from addiction, the media turns its attention once again to the subject of substance abuse. Articles are written, reports are filed,…

Read More

How Can We Prevent Drug Abuse Among Youth?

Every parent wants their children to grow up healthy and happy. It’s no surprise that many parents worry about drug abuse among youth – both their own children and their peers. Preventing drug use isn’t just an issue for parents; healthy and happy youth are a crucial component of a healthy community. Here, we’ll take…

Read More

How Long Does It Take for Brain Chemistry to Return to Normal?

Medical professionals and scientists continue to study the effects of addiction and substance use on the brain. One thing is certain: substance use (and especially prolonged substance use) can fundamentally change your brain chemistry. Some substances can significantly alter your brain chemistry in as little as one use, and even seemingly “harmless” substances can have…

Read More

Making the “Jump” Off Suboxone – When the “Solution” Becomes the Problem

– Dr. Jay Piland, ABAM   A recent press release for Bunavail says it all: First and Only FDA-Approved (Buccal Formulation) of Buprenorphine and Naloxone to compete in the $1.7 Billion and Growing U.S. Opioid Dependence Market. Heroin and prescription opiate addiction are massive, under-treated and under-reported conditions in the United States. According to 2013…

Read More

Can you ever be cured of an addiction?

Addiction can disrupt your life and the lives of those around you. Whether you’re struggling with addiction or have started your journey to recovery, addiction can cause feelings of loneliness and desperation. At some point in your recovery – or maybe several points – you may find yourself asking: “Isn’t there a cure?!” Take it…

Read More

7 Tips for Achieving Long Term Recovery

Whether you’re just exploring recovery options for addiction, you’ve just finished an inpatient or intensive outpatient recovery program, or you’ve been in recovery for years, maintaining your sobriety is a lifelong journey. There are no quick fixes or miracle cures for addiction; long term recovery requires patience with yourself and the process. Here are seven…

Read More

Why Did I Relapse? Top Triggers of Relapse

– Dr. Jay Piland, ABAM   On your journey to recovery and sobriety, relapse can feel like a major failure, and the resulting stress and anxiety can cause feelings of hopelessness. But it’s important to know that relapse happens in many paths to recovery and, while not necessarily inevitable or unavoidable, is a common occurrence.…

Read More

Self Image & Addiction

Stewart Bedillion, MA, LPC   King Solomon said, “As a man thinks in his heart so is he.” Solomon was simply stating something that I observe every day working with patients at Palmetto: people generally become what they believe they are. Society refers to this concept as self-image, self-worth, or self-regard. If it is true…

Read More