Cocaine has been around for centuries. It is an extremely addictive stimulant drug made from leaves of the coca plant that causes euphoric and positive feelings. Back in the mid-1800’s, cocaine was even used as an ingredient in Coca-Cola and wine and was used as a remedy for hay fever and other common illnesses. Many…
Read MoreMethamphetamine use has skyrocketed over the past decade, and risky use patterns and increasing diversity in the population using methamphetamine suggests that it will continue to grow. These trends have also produced growth in the number of people dying from overdose and developing addictions to methamphetamine. With all of methamphetamine’s harmful effects, why do people…
Read MoreIf 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 MoreEvery 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– Stewart Bedillion MA, LPC – Spiritual Counselor If a person has run off the road and is stuck in the ditch, no amount of acceleration is going to help that individual get back on the road. Putting the “pedal to the metal” is not the answer. What that person needs is a wrecker.…
Read MoreMedical 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– 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 MoreAddiction 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 MoreWhether 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– 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.…
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