Addiction

Zoloft and addiction

2008-08-01T18:05:00.001-07:00

Zoloft And Addiction Recovery – Can It Help?

For those trying to win the battle against drug addiction, new prescriptions are being introduced each year which may help. One of the most common problems associated with drug addiction recovery efforts, is the recovering addict’s tendency to fall into severe depression. Drug makers introduced the drug Zoloft, and addiction recovery was made easier for millions.

Zoloft is an anti-depressant that has been prescribed for everything from obsessive-compulsive disorder, to post traumatic stress syndrome. Recently, doctors have begun prescribing the drug for those who have completed, or are completing, a drug addiction rehabilitation program, to help them combat their feelings of depression and despondency following their detoxification period. The combination of Zoloft and addiction recovery counseling has been shown to be highly effective.

Are You Battling Depression?

If you have recently completed a drug rehabilitation program, or if you are trying to overcome your addiction on your own, you may have feelings of depression. This is a perfectly normal experience. If this is your case, you should talk to your doctor or counselor, as Zoloft and addiction recovery counseling may help you, as well.

Even if you do not feel that you are depressed, you may still benefit from Zoloft and addiction recovery counseling, simply as a means to help you stay focused on your treatment. Your doctor, or rehabilitation center counselor, will have a treatment plan in mind for you; but if you feel that you might be helped by Zoloft, don’t be afraid to mention it.

Stay The Course

If your drug rehabilitation program includes Zoloft and addiction recovery counseling, it is important that you continue treatment for as long as your doctor recommends. Stopping treatment early, or cold turkey, can have disastrous results; and can cause you to fall back into your old habits of drug use and destructive behavior. Studies have also shown that stopping a treatment program of Zoloft and addiction recovery counseling prior to a doctor’s release, may contribute to the high statistics of suicide among recovering addicts.

Even if a program of Zoloft and addiction recovery counseling isn’t in your immediate future, you should always remember that there are a great number of places where you can get help for your drug addiction recovery, and many different treatment options available. If you or someone you love is suffering from addiction, tlak to your doctor immediately and ask if Zoloft and addiction recovery counseling may be a viable treatment option for you.

xanax addiction

2008-08-01T18:04:00.002-07:00

What You Need To Know About Xanax Addiction

If you have been diagnosed with a panic disorder, major depression or anxiety, you may be prescribed an anti-depressant called Xanax. (Yes – you can spell it the same way backwards as forwards.) You might wonder if you can get addicted to Xanax. Oprah Winfrey had a show on Xanax addiction, after all. If you take Xanax as prescribed, then there is really no chance you can develop a Xanax addiction.

But What About That Oprah Show?

When someone gets a Xanax addiction, they are taking handfuls of Xanax a day. This is far far far more than what is prescribed. For some reason, Xanax addicts tend to think that more equals better. This is not so – with any drug, let alone Xanax. Xanax helps you to relax and some people aren’t satisfied with just being relaxed – they want to be “stoned”. Stoned is when you feel really groggy. For some people, they really like feeling groggy. All their problems seem to go away. If you hate feeling groggy, then you don’t have to worry about developing a Xanax addiction.

Also, your pharmacist will keep track of how much Xanax you have access to at any one time. You will only be allowed to have only so many pills a month, and that’s it. People with a Xanax addiction rarely if ever get their Xnax legally. They get it from the street, or trick doctors into given them a prescription for Xanax without that doctor knowing that the patient already has a Xanax prescription from another doctor.

Xanax addicts have a problem just as serious as a heroin addicts. The Xanax becomes all they want out of life. They ignore all responsibilities, treats everyone who cares about them horribly and can kill themselves eventually through an overdose, especially if they mix Xanax with other drugs like alcohol.

In Conclusion

When you get a prescription for Xanax, you really don’t need to worry about developing a debilitating Xanax addiction. Remember to only take the prescribed dose. If your depression worsens, call your doctor. Don’t leave the house. Don’t make any major decisions – call the doctor. It could be you need less Xanax, or perhaps Xanax just doesn’t agree with your body. Don’t worry if Xanax isn’t for you – that’s why there are so many antidepressants to choose from. There’s bound to be one that’s just right for you. Be a patient patient and always tell your doctor the truth.

video game addiction

2008-08-01T18:04:00.001-07:00

Could Your Child Be Suffering From Video Game Addiction?

We’ve all wondered at some point if our teenagers were suffering from a drug addiction – after all, they act really strange at times, and those clothes they wear! But, did you know that it is entirely possible for your teen to be suffering from a different type of addiction altogether? Namely, video game addiction.

You may laugh, but think about how many hours your son or daughter spends in front of the television. Thumbs racing wildly, pushing buttons and moving joysticks. Shouting gleefully as they destroy their latest target. Fighting games, military combat, mystical fantasy settings; you name it, there’s been a game made about it. Video game addiction is every bit as real an addiction as any to drugs, alcohol, or food. And it can be every bit as dangerous.

Recognizing The Signs

Every parent’s nightmare is waking up one day to find that their child has become addicted to a deadly substance. And parents are continuously on the lookout for signs that their son or daughter may be experimenting with something they shouldn’t be. It may not be as easy to recognize a video game addiction, but there are signs that parents can watch for, nonetheless. It is important to understand that, as of yet, the American Psychiatric Association does not consider video game addiction to be a legally recognized mental disorder.

There are several signs that you can watch for, that will give you an indication of whether or not your teen may have a video game addiction. While many teens’ grades drop for many reasons, a sudden and severe drop in grades can be an indication that something more serious is going on – other than the normal teen boredom. Withdrawal from previously enjoyed social activities, including sports and outside activities with friends is also a sign that your teen may have an addictive personality when it comes to video games.

Treating Your Child’s Addiction

It is important that you understand that the games are not in and of themselves the cause for your child’s video game addiction. Taking them away will probably not help the situation, as there are simply entirely too many outlets for teens to get more. Instead, try to engage your teen in healthier activities, and help them to focus their addictive behavior toward something that can actually benefit them.

If you are unable to put an end to your child’s video game addiction on your own, there have been several different support groups started recently that offer help for addicted gamers.; and anti-depressants may help to combat their addictive behavior.

travel health insurance coverage

2008-08-01T18:03:00.002-07:00

You May Need Travel Health Insurance Coverage When You Are Out Of Town

Many times when people decide they want to go on vacation, they naturally assume their health insurance will cover them for anything that will happen anywhere in the world. This kind of assumption is a dangerous one because many health insurance carriers, while they will maintain that they will cover you anywhere in the world, actually reserve the right to deny you coverage if you are outside their coverage area. The best way to avoid any problems is to get some travel health insurance coverage before you leave.

If you travel a lot, then travel health insurance coverage is almost mandatory for you regardless of what kind of coverage you already carry. Multiple trips during the year may not be covered on your regular health insurance and you do not want something to happen on trip number three of the year and then find out that when you broke your leg hiking in Thailand that you now have to pay all of the expenses associated with that accident. It is best just to have the travel health insurance coverage and be protected.

Benefits Offered Are Probably Not Covered On Your Regular Insurance

Depending on what kind of travel health insurance coverage you get, you can get a rider that allows for emergency transportation should you have a pre-existing condition occur in a foreign country. This may not sound necessary but if you have a reoccurring health problem that you never know when it can pop up then you may want to be able to be flown home in an emergency should that problem occur when you are out of the country. Not every policy covers pre-existing conditions and covers evacuation costs so be sure to make sure you are getting a policy with those terms in it if you have a pre-existing condition that can cause you problems on a vacation.

Travel health insurance coverage can even arrange to have a family member escort you back home should something happen to you while you are on vacation. The terms of this condition are usually very limited, but if you get the right policy then you can have a family member come to bring you home if something should happen to you when you are traveling. The personal touch of family that you can get when you buy travel health insurance coverage makes it worth the cost.

sugar addiction

2008-08-01T18:03:00.001-07:00

Fighting Unhealthy Sugar Addiction

It is a sad truth that entirely too many Americans are fighting obesity today. It has been estimated that more than 50% of Americans are overweight; but the cause for that weight gain is what concerns us the most. Recent studies show that there may be a correlation between our rapid weight gain, and a growing trend toward giving in to sugar addiction.

Just like the most illicit drug, sugar can be very addictive to those who already have a propensity toward addictive behavior. It is said that sugar addiction can be almost as difficult to fight and to overcome as an addiction to heroin. For some, professional help is what it will take in order to fight a sugar addiction; however, there are steps you can take on your own, that may help you overcome an addiction to sugar without having to seek professional help.

Exercise

One of the first steps toward fighting a sugar addiction is to give yourself a healthy alternative to eating. In this case, exercise will (hopefully) become your drug of choice. A healthy exercise routine should include calisthenics and aerobics, as well as a weight training program. Many gyms offer personal training as part of your membership. Be sure to take advantage of this, as it may well save your life. It is also important that you maintain a healthy, well-balanced diet along with your exercise routine.

Diet

Sugar addiction is easier to battle when you make a conscientious effort to maintain a balanced diet as part of your regular routine. Your body has very specific needs when it comes to the vitamins and nutrients necessary to stay healthy. When you do not give your body the nutrition it needs, it tries to get your attention by making you crave something.

All too often, we mistake these cravings as a need for sugar, as opposed to recognizing them for what they truly are – our bodies trying to communicate with us. When you feel the need for sugar, you can combat that craving by eating something rich in citric acid. It has been proven that the properties of citrus fruits actually help to combat addictions of all types; but especially sugar addiction. The glucose, or fruit sugar, combined with citric acid, help to form a defense against those unhealthy cravings.

Consult A Professional

If you have attempted to fight your sugar addiction through diet and exercise, and have been unsuccessful, it may be necessary for you to seek help from a professional. As with any other addiction, counseling from someone trained to deal with unnatural addiction may help you in your fight against sugar addiction. Talk to your family physician, and ask for a referral to a professional counselor to help you with your sugar addiction today.

smoking addiction

2008-08-01T18:02:00.002-07:00

Replacing A Smoking Addiction With Healthy Alternatives

If you’re fighting a smoking addiction, you know how difficult it can be to break. But if you are able to replace that unhealthy addiction with healthier behavior, you will find that the battle against a smoking addiction is much easier to win. We consulted the largest team of addiction experts we could find, and were able to bring you a list of the most useful alternatives to smoking that will help you to break your smoking addiction. Try one or try them all; just remember that quitting smoking now can greatly improve your health.

Diet And Exercise

One of the best things you can implement in your lifestyle in an attempt to break a smoking addiction, is a healthy diet and exercise routine. Both of these factors will help your body to readjust so that it does not need its dependency on nicotine products. A daily regimen of high energy exercise will release the same chemicals into your brain that nicotine simulates, and will help to decrease your dependency on the drug.

Another factor in breaking a smoking addiction, is to learn to eat a well-balanced diet. Smoking decreases your body’s natural ability to feel hunger, and so most smokers end up with nutrient deficiencies they aren’t even aware of. This is one of the reasons that so many people suddenly find themselves overeating once they have quit the habit of smoking, and end up experiencing sudden weight gain.

Make certain that you get a healthy balance of all of the food groups each day, and you will find that your smoking addiction is much easier to break. When your system is not being deprived of the nutrients it does need, it will be less likely to crave the nicotine that it does not. Many have found that drinking a glass of orange juice each time a craving for a cigarette is felt, helps to decrease the intensity of the urge, thereby making it easier to break your smoking addiction.

Learn Something New

Taking on a new hobby is another great way to help break a smoking addiction. Not only does it offer you the chance to learn a new skill and make new friends, but the learning process itself has helped many people turn their focus away from the things they crave, be it smoking, drinking or drugs.

A smoking addiction can be one of the most difficult to break. Make certain that you have a solid support system around you when you decide to quit smoking, and you will find it much easier to put those cigarettes down for good.

Prozac addiction withdrawal

2008-08-01T18:02:00.001-07:00

Possible Prozac Addiction Withdrawal Symptoms

With Prozac being prescribed around the world for everything from depression to obesity, there are many of those who wonder if the drug is really as safe as the drug companies and doctors are telling us. Since the 1980’s, there have been numerous studies on the effects of Prozac, and also on the Prozac addiction withdrawal symptoms that may follow cessation of taking the drug.

The results of many of these studies have never seen the light of day. But there are many doctors and psychiatrists who want these results to be made public. It is because of these experts that we are able to bring you a list of possible Prozac addiction withdrawal symptoms. If you feel that you may be suffering from any of these symptoms, it is important that you talk to your doctor immediately. These effects can be especially pronounced in children; so if your child has taken Prozac in the past, be certain to monitor them carefully once they are taken off of the drug.

Heightened Depression

One of the most prominent possible Prozac addiction withdrawal symptoms reported is a heightened sense of depression. Because Prozac tends to give users a feeling of apathetic euphoria, stopping the drug can make users over-sensitive to their emotions such as depression. Counseling is imperative if you are feeling more depressed than usual, and a safer anti-depressant may be prescribed.

Extreme Mood Swings

Another possible Prozac addiction withdrawal symptom can be a sudden and extreme change in your moods. If you find yourself experiencing sudden shifts between sadness and euphoria, or between depression and elation, you should talk to your doctor or counselor immediately.

The symptoms of Prozac addiction withdrawal can be greatly exaggerated in children. Because Prozac is the only anti-depressant the FDA has approved for children, it is widely prescribed for everything from depression to Attention Deficit Disorder. If your child has recently been taken off of Prozac, be sure that you monitor him or her closely so as to catch any signs of Prozac addiction withdrawal symptoms immediately.

Suicidal Tendencies

These studies have also shown that one of the possible Prozac addiction withdrawal symptoms, is a much greater chance of feeling suicidal. There have been many cases reported of people committing suicide who were recovering from their use of the drug, but as of yet, no findings have stopped the drug from being prescribed. Other manifestations of this Prozac addiction withdrawal symptom have included a strong tendency toward aggression, and there have even been reported cases of murder committed by those recovering from the withdrawal symptoms of the drug.

If you feel that you may be experiencing one or more of the possible Prozac addiction withdrawal symptoms, talk to your doctor or counselor immediately. It may just save your life.

prescription drug addiction

2008-08-01T18:01:00.002-07:00

Do You Have A Prescription Drug Addiction?

One of the reasons people shun going to the doctor is that they are worried of developing a prescription drug addiction. This is especially true for people with depression, bipolar disorder and other kinds of addictions like alcoholism. All of these conditions can usually be successfully treated with the help of prescription medications. It is very unlikely that you would ever develop a prescription drug addiction.

Access

You need to be taking handfuls of prescription drugs in order to develop a prescription drug addiction. A few antidepressants or even anticonvulsants a day, taken when following doctor’s orders, will not get you hooked. Some argue that a person suffering from major depression who has to take one Prozac a day for the rest of their lives has a prescription drug addiction. Some people are really stupid.

One Prozac a day is like taking a vitamin C pill a day because you have no access to foods with vitamin C in them. If your body doesn’t get vitamin C on a regular basis, you will get incredibly ill and maybe die. It’s the same with prescription medicines when taken as directed.

You have to work long, hard hours in order to get access to the bottles and bottles of pills needed to fuel a prescription drug addiction. One doctor will not prescribe you enough to get you hooked. You have to go to another doctor with a false identity in order to get a duplicate prescription – as well as have it filled by a different drug store chain. Usually, you have to go to drug dealers on the street in order to get the pills you need.

Overreaction

Our society has become so frightened of illegal drug addicts and people with really serious addictions to legal drugs like alcohol, that they are afraid of becoming one of the evil ones themselves. Mostly, they are afraid that if others discover that they are taking Prozac (or whatever), they will be branded as a drug addict for the rest of their lives. This is especially of concern for those with treatable mental illnesses, who really do not have the ability to make logical decisions, unless they are on prescription medications.

Although it is good that the media has let us all become aware of the problem of prescription drug addiction, we should also be aware that prescription drugs have done more good than evil in the world. If you have any concerns about your medicines, call your doctor.

nicotine addiction

2008-08-01T18:01:00.001-07:00

Breaking A Nicotine Addiction

Every year millions of Americans try unsuccessfully to stop smoking. A nicotine addiction can be one of the hardest of all to break, especially if you are not aware of the many things that you can do to help your body give up this terrible addiction. If you are thinking about quitting smoking, but aren’t quite sure where to start, read on. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of steps that you can put into action immediately to help you in your fight against your nicotine addiction. Please keep in mind that an addiction to nicotine can be extraordinarily hard to break, and the only real way you will succeed is if you truly want to quit.

Patches, Inhalers, And Gum – Oh My!

One of the most difficult things reported with trying to break a nicotine addiction is trying to stop all use of nicotine products all at once, or cold turkey. It is for this reason that drug companies offer a wide variety of products specifically designed to administer small doses of nicotine to your system, in increasingly smaller portions, over a long period of time. Patches allow the nicotine to be transferred directly through the skin; the inhalers administer nicotine into the lungs, as they are pulled on the same as a cigarette; and the gum administers your dose of nicotine through your saliva and the skin in your mouth.

These products do not work for everyone battling a nicotine addiction, however; and many people report that they are made sick by the large amounts of pure nicotine being delivered into their systems. These products are specifically designed to allow you to slowly wean your body off of its nicotine addiction, while at the same time working on the psychological aspect of nicotine addiction – namely, the hand-to-mouth habit that many find harder to break than the actual nicotine.

Healthy Alternatives

Because a body’s nicotine addiction is due largely to the extra dopamine (feel-good chemical in the brain) rush, it can be extremely difficult to combat unless you are prepared to replace it with a healthier alternative. Beginning a daily, high-energy exercise program will also allow you to experience those large rushes of adrenaline and dopamine; not to mention the fact that they will help to combat the overpowering need to eat that some people experience with nicotine cessation.

Breaking a nicotine addiction is also easier if you replace the cravings you have for cigarettes with a healthy alternative. Citrus juices, such as orange and grapefruit, have been shown to curb the cravings that almost everyone experiences when they quit smoking. Each time you feel the need for a cigarette, try drinking a small glass of orange juice. Notice the huge difference it will make in your cravings, as you battle your nicotine addiction.

nexium addiction

2008-08-01T17:46:00.004-07:00

Reducing Your Risk Of Developing A Nexium Addiction

If you have ever experienced the pain of extreme heartburn or ulcers, then you can well understand the willingness of those suffering from these conditions to take whatever pills their doctors may prescribe in an effort to stop the pain. One of the most widely prescribed drugs used to treat severe heartburn, ulcers, or acid reflux disease is a purple pill called Nexium. Sadly, many people who take this drug for an extended period of time, develop a Nexium addiction that can have serious ramifications.

The very composition of the drug makes it very easy for the body to become dependent on Nexium. Although Nexium addiction has not been reported as a common side effect of taking the drug, there are still steps you can take to prevent yourself from becoming addicted.

Talk To Your Physician

The first thing we want to make clear, is that if you think you may be developing a Nexium addiction you should talk to your doctor immediately. Even though a Nexium addiction can be dangerous, it can be even more dangerous to stop taking the drug suddenly. Your doctor will usually prescribe another, milder type of heartburn medication (such as Zantac), and wean you off of the Nexium gradually.

Because your body can become dependent on Nexium, it can also develop a tolerance to the drug. Instead of having your doctor prescribe a higher dosage of the drug, which can lead to a Nexium addiction, talk to your physician about trying something different for your heartburn or acid reflux disease.

Change Your Lifestyle

Studies have shown that, to prevent the risk of developing a Nexium addiction, you can make certain lifestyle style changes that may prevent you from having to start the drug in the first place. These studies have shown that making small changes to your daily routines can greatly reduce your chances of developing ulcers or acid reflux disease.

These changes include going to bed earlier, in order to give your body more time to digest the foods you eat properly; changing your diet so as to eliminate spicy and salty foods; taking up a hobby, such as yoga or fishing, to reduce stress levels that may lead to ulcers; and drinking a glass of water every morning before any coffee or juice, so as to neutralize the acids that are naturally disturbed by these fluids.

Whatever you do, it is important that you remember that a Nexium addiction is both treatable as well as curable. Talk to your doctor today if you think you may have developed an addiction to Nexium.

nationwide travel insurance

2008-08-01T17:46:00.003-07:00

Peace Of Mind With Nationwide Travel Insurance

When you are getting ready to go on vacation, or whatever your travel plans are going to be, you need to look into getting travel insurance. When you start thinking about a carrier for your travel insurance you may want to consider an international company that has the financial power and strength to take care of you the right way when you are out exploring the world. You need to get Nationwide travel insurance. Nationwide travel insurance is important protection for you and your family when you are away from home and it is provided by one of the largest insurance companies in the world. You cannot go wrong with Nationwide travel insurance.

Nationwide travel insurance offers such valuable features as trip cancellation insurance, coverage for your medical expenses, assistance if you ever lose your money or your money gets stolen, claims for any of your personal property that gets stolen or damaged while on vacation. They can also help you with your travel documents if you ever find a need for advice or assistance with them. Nationwide travel insurance covers you completely for not only one time trips, but they also offer multi trip packages that can cover you if you travel a lot.

It Starts Before Your Vacation Does

One of the great features of Nationwide travel insurance is that they have a service set up where you can get advice about what to do on your vacation before you even leave your home. They have a special service set up where travelers that have Nationwide travel insurance can call in and talk to a trained specialist and make sure that you have all of your needs covered before you leave your home. This kind of service can be invaluable if you are taking a trip overseas, or out of the country at all, for the very first time. Sometimes new foreign travelers forget these important details and Nationwide is there to help you get all of your paperwork, and arrangements, together before you leave on your trip.

Traveling is supposed to be a enjoyable time full of good experiences and a time to relax. But sometimes things can go wrong and that is when you need a good company backing you up. Nationwide is one of the largest insurance companies in the world and with a company like that in your corner you are sure to have a good vacation.

methamphetamine addiction

2008-08-01T17:46:00.001-07:00

Methamphetamine Addiction and Treatment

Methamphetamine, commonly known as Meth, is an addictive stimulant that has the capacity to interact with certain brain systems and activate them accordingly. It is also referred to as Chalk, Crank, Croak, Crypto, Crystal, Fire, Glass, Tweek, or White Cross. Methamphetamine can be administered orally, snorted or smoked. Typically it looks like a crystal type of substance, but sometimes it is available in large rock-like chunks.

Historical Significance of Methamphetamine

Nagayoshi Nagai, a Japanese chemist, first synthesized Methamphetamine from ephedrine in 1893. In 1919, crystallized meth was synthesized by minimizing the quantity of ephedrine and increasing the amount of red phosphorous and iodine. This was done by Akira Ogata. During 1950s, it was legally prescribed to American people for the therapeutic and pharmacological benefit in combating with narcolepsy, obesity, alcoholism and Parkinson.

How Methamphetamine Works

Meth is an extremely strong stimulant that affects the functions of central nervous system and interacts with bodily neurochemical mechanisms responsible for controlling appetite, blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, mood, attention, and alertness. Methamphetamine addiction may result in altering the route and direction of norepinephrine carrier and dopamine carrier. This alteration causes a discharge of these transmitters from the vesicles to the synapse via cytoplasm, resulting in disruption in the usual function of post-synaptic receptors.

Risks Associated With Methamphetamine Addiction

There are a great variety of psychological and physiological risks associated with Methamphetamine addiction. The major risks include increased blood pressure, inflammation of the heart lining, fast heart beat, damage to small blood vessels in the brain, insomnia, intense wakefulness, anxiety, violent behavior, confusion, paranoia, etc. The intravenous (IV) users are highly susceptible of developing HIV, hepatitis B or C, blood borne viruses, tuberculosis, pneumonia, kidney disease and many others. After a prolonged Methamphetamine addiction, users may suffer from psychotic symptoms that may even persist for lifetime.

Treatment for Methamphetamine Addiction

At present, the most effective form of treatment for Methamphetamine addiction is detoxification followed by cognitive-behavioral therapy. This approach helps in modifying client’s thought process, expectations, reality orientations, and behaviors. Additionally, it also benefits in increasing coping skills with various life stressors. Contingency management is also found beneficial. These therapies in combination with family education, individual and group counseling, 12-step program, drug testing, and encouragement and options for non drug-related activities have been found to reduce the risk of Methamphetamine addiction.

However, there is no particular medication available till date that can counteract with the effects produced by Methamphetamine. Only influencing individuals in a positive fashion and encouraging them to stay clean are the measures that come under the treatment for Methamphetamine addiction.

marijuana addiction

2008-08-01T17:45:00.002-07:00

Overcoming Marijuana Addiction

Substance abuse is a real problem which many people, young and old may experience. The craving for the next fix is usually the start of the addiction. Marijuana addiction often baffles the addicts themselves because they feel that they are in complete control of their needs and that they can stop any time they want to.

Those with marijuana addiction usually start their marijuana habit as something that they might have been coerced into doing or they are curious of what marijuana is. The sad thing about this is that their curiosity leads them to an addiction that can last for a long time and have serious side effects.

Marijuana Addiction Side Effects

Marijuana addiction side effects often affect the mind of the user. The less serious side effects of marijuana addiction are increased appetite and increase risk of aging faster. Other more serious side effects of marijuana addiction are toxic psychosis, loss of self awareness or self identification and hallucinations. These can lead to loss of life because hallucinations and psychosis can take away the self preservation instincts that we have.

How To Overcome Marijuana Addiction

The first thing a person has to do to overcome marijuana addiction is to realize that there is an addiction which needs to be resolved. Admitting to the marijuana addiction is the first step to overcoming it. Getting help from a professional will also make the task easier compared to doing it yourself. Getting support from your family and friends will also help you deal with the frustrations and craving from overcoming your marijuana addiction.

It is also best to go through detox before undergoing any rehabilitation for marijuana addiction. This is a process where you get rid of any lasting elements or traces of the illegal substance in your body. This process helps to clean your body and eliminate any risk of more side effects. It is also favorable on your part to follow the entire treatment program in order to reap the benefits of overcoming your addiction.

It is also a good idea to voice out your feelings of withdrawal and need when the time arises. Letting these feeling out by talking about them will benefit you and your quest to overcome marijuana. In most treatment facilities, you will have a sponsor or a guide to whom you can voice out your feelings.

Remember, the initial step to overcoming addiction starts from you. Admit that you have an addiction before anything else and be sincere and steadfast in following the treatment outlined for you.

internet addiction

2008-08-01T17:45:00.001-07:00

Internet Addiction: A Hoax Or A Real Mental Disorder?

Many experts have declined to comment on the status of the internet addiction disorder for a long time. Actually, the internet addiction disorder started as a satirical hoax made by Ivan Goldberg sometime in 1995. It was not really intended to be part of the wide array of disorders that threaten the modern person’s sanity at that time but as move on into the digital era, the very idea of internet addiction as a form of diseases is no longer remote. In fact, many health professionals are now convinced that too much attachment or destructive type of dependency on the internet can already be classified as a form of disease. Yes, there are still a lot of criticisms and discussions to be resolved before this type of disorder can be included in the books but the possibility that this type of disorder will indeed become a leading form of mental disorder in our generation is not really remote.

Who Are Internet Addicts?

People who work online and spend so much time working in front of their computers are not exactly what you may call as internet addicts. Internet addiction is much more than just spending some time online trying to earn a living. In fact, even if you spend several hours surfing the net but you do feel this obsessive need to be online most of the time, you cannot really say that you are already an addict. We must understand that addiction is a strong word and before you can say that you are addicted to something, you must have that uncontrollable and insatiable craving for that something. Internet addiction therefore should be viewed in a more complex manner than just simple need to be online most of the time.

When exactly can you be considered as an internet addict? According to some experts, internet addiction happens when one becomes dependent on some aspects of the internet. Having a pathological relationship with some specific online sires such as those online gambling, online auctions, adult sites and others can actually make one an internet addict. A lot of people who are hooked on these sites often become agitated and restless if they cannot log into the internet and check out these sites during the day. In fact, some people are known to spend long hours on these sites that they often forget some themselves.

In most cases, internet addicts face their computer the whole night that they can no longer function well during the day. According to some experts, denying this person access to the internet may result to extreme anxiety and withdrawal symptoms.

hypnosis and drug addiction

2008-08-01T17:44:00.002-07:00

Treatment of Drug Addiction and Hypnosis

Hypnotic trance is an altered state of mind that can be induced with the help of hypnosis. It interacts with the subconscious mind and provides suggestion to that part of mind, which is not directly accessible in normal condition. Hypnosis is a proven technique that promotes improvement in both psychological and physical well-being of an individual.

The proponents of hypnotherapy claim that there is a potent relation between hypnosis and drug addiction. That means, using the different mind tools available under hypnotherapy, an addict’s mental structure can be altered in such a way that he or she may not feel the urge to use substance any longer. However, there is no sufficient scientific report found in the support of such claim. Hypnosis is found to be beneficial in relieving pain sensation, so it can offer effective intervention at the time of withdrawal symptoms.

Hypnotic Influence on Behavior Modification

Current treatment of addiction focuses essentially on behavior modification. Hypnosis induces a mental state when an individual experiences increased awareness. Due to this increased awareness, the individual becomes more inclined to receive suggestions and ideas, which eventually help in behavioral modification. At this time, the individual will attain a state of open-mindedness, with freedom of imagination and heightened attention to different facets especially when approaching events.

In fact, the process of behavior modification can be enhanced with the appropriate application of hypnosis and drug addiction problem can hence be minimized. But before considering hypnosis as an integral mode of treatment, the willingness to giving up habit is absolutely required from the client. A typical hypnotist may help his clients to get a control over their lives in many ways. A successful hypnotherapeutic intervention may even influence an addict’s motivation and inspire him to give up his habits of addiction.

During hypnotherapeutic session, the positive attitude and the belief in self-ability to succeed can be reinforced as an essential motivational technique. The therapist can offer their clients informed choices regarding hypnosis and how drug addiction problem can be encountered with the help of multiple hypnotherapeutic sessions. Additionally, the therapist may analyze the damages occurred at psychological, social and emotional level of an individual as a result of prolonged drug addiction.

Hypnosis and Other Therapies

The exact causes of addiction have not been fully identified. Same is true with the treatment of addiction. So, there is a great variety of treatments as suggested by different researchers, medical practitioners, and social workers. Hypnosis belongs to alternative therapeutic approach. Sole application of this therapy may not be found beneficial for treating addiction problem; however, the hypnotherapeutic approach in combination of other therapies such as 12-steps programs, medications, art therapy, and music therapy offer good results. Hence, we can conclude that the help offered from hypnosis and alleviation from drug addiction withdrawal symptoms may not be associated directly, but we can not also deny the indirect association between hypnosis and drug addiction, when the issue of effective behavior modification comes in.

heroin addiction

2008-08-01T17:44:00.001-07:00

Battling Heroin Addiction

Every day, thousands across the country are fighting a dangerous fight – the fight against heroin addiction. While methadone clinics around the country have given many a chance to stop using this dangerous drug, many do not have access to these clinics; or simply replace their addiction to heroin with an addiction to methadone.

Heroin addiction does not only affect the poor. Many associate heroin addiction with the homeless, or with those living in less than desirable conditions. But the sad truth of the matter is that heroin addiction can affect anyone – regardless of age, or position in life. A lawyer can just as easily become addicted to this deadly substance as a young woman living in the local projects. Addiction knows no boundaries, and can strike at anyone; but with the proper attention, it can be beaten.

Drug Rehabilitation

The first step in battling heroin addiction is through professional drug rehabilitation. It is virtually impossible to combat this terrible addiction without professional help. If you are fighting an addiction to heroin, you should first check yourself into a rehab program. Do not let your financial situation, regardless of what it may be, stop you from getting professional help. There are many rehabilitation clinics that offer programs for those with little or no income; and state medical programs often cover this type of treatment.

Depending on your level of heroin addiction, your stay in a drub rehabilitation program will last anywhere from thirty to ninety days. Typically, methadone is administered in increasingly smaller doses, so as to wean your body gradually off of the drug. For some, however, it may be necessary to go through a complete and rapid detoxification process, in order to get the drug out of your system completely. There are several schools of thought on which type of detoxification works best; but the fact remains that heroin addiction is a deadly and dangerous habit.

Support

Even after you have completed a drug rehabilitation program, heroin addiction will be a daily battle. You must own your addiction, and make the conscious choice to not give into the cravings. It is much easier to do this if you have a healthy support system in place before you get out of your rehabilitation program. Family and friends are a great comfort, as long as they were not enabling your addiction prior to rehabilitation; and there are countless support groups available, such as Narcotics Anonymous, where you can find daily support from those who are just like you.

Whatever you choose to do, the fact that you can admit that you have a heroin addiction is the first step toward overcoming that addiction. Take whatever steps you can to fight this deadly drug – your family, your friends, and your very life will be changed for the best when you can overcome a heroin addiction.

help overcoming addiction

2008-08-01T17:24:00.000-07:00

How to Help Someone Overcoming Addiction

Modern society has plenty of useful resources for us. These aid us to progress in the areas of technology, science, medicine and many others. On the contrary, modern society also brings many harmful features. However, a single interaction with those features can make us to think whether we are really progressing or not. Addiction is such an element of today’s complex society that takes toll of many lives around the world in almost every single second.

People may suffer from addiction problem on a variety of things. It doesn’t necessarily mean that the addicts need to suffer from substance addiction. There are a great variety of addictions, probably more than you can actually imagine. When you become aware of someone suffering from addiction problem, the first step should include finding an effective way before you can be of actual help in overcoming his addiction problem. Overcoming addiction is not a fortnight job; it needs dedication, time and honest effort in the direction of the effectual way identified. In fact, it is one of the biggest hurdles that many have to go through his entire lifetime.

One Day at a Time

Many social organizations and great thinkers around the world consider that addiction is a lifelong disease and a whole lifespan is actually needed for the recovery. This theme is aligned with the understanding of 12-Step program. When you offer help someone overcoming addiction, you should let him understand that the process to stay away from addiction may be a struggle, but it is well worth at the end of the day. It is like attaining the goal on one day at a time basis. It is a great way to make the recovering addict to realize that they have made a brand new start on their life path.

Role of Rehabilitation Centre

If you find that near and dear ones are suffering from the problem of addiction and you like to help him overcoming addiction problem, the first step is to send him to the detoxification centre if he is dependent on any sort of substance. Following a detoxification phase for certain days, he will then be sent to rehabilitation center. This is the most crucial part of addiction treatment where the addicts can be intimated with various aspects of addiction and its associated problems. A prolonged user may have broken relationships, financial bankruptcy, and emotional turmoil, social and legal problems. In rehabilitation phases, he will be subject to make positive alterations in his lifestyles and behavior pattern with the help of counseling, psychotherapy, and many other therapeutic measures.

Role of Self-Help Group

Getting help for overcoming addiction is a crucial part of addiction treatment. A self-help group generally comprises of like-minded people who have gone through the same complications in their lives. Quite obviously, they can offer effective help in overcoming addiction to someone who seeks friendly support and understanding during their recovery phase. There are a whole host of anonymous groups who offer their volunteer service in combating with addiction problem worldwide.

gambling addiction

2008-08-01T16:41:00.000-07:00

Signs Of A Gambling Addiction

Gambling is supposed to be an enjoyable past time where one gets some thrills and moments to remember. There are many forms of gambling but it is loosely defined as a past time where wagers and bets are placed in accordance to the result of a game or an event which has a single outcome. Gambling addiction is highly probable because the high that some people get when they win a wager or bet is very addictive. Some people may lose more than they win but they still feel the buzz of winning.

In areas such as Las Vegas and other gambling hotspots in the world, many people make money out of the gambling addiction of players and gamblers. These loan sharks often lend money to people whose compulsion to gamble is overwhelming their common sense. These gamblers get deeper and deeper into debt and in some cases, sell a lot of their belongings just to gamble or keep their payments to those whom they owe money to.

Recognizing A Person With A Gambling Addiction

There are several symptoms of a person with a gambling addiction but these do not necessarily point to an addiction because there are also other factors which we need to consider.

One of the more obvious signs of an addiction of any kind is being secretive or mysterious. If this is a sudden or new behavior, you will have to monitor the person for any other signs because he may just be planning a surprise or may have something that he does not want to talk about as of yet. A person with a gambling addiction usually does not want other people to notice his compulsion because he himself may have noticed that he cannot stop it.

Other signs of a gambling addiction are furtive - calls and meetings which are not related to work or family life. These can also be signs of any kind of addiction. More signs of a gambling addiction are borrowing money or embezzlement which escalates. Some people who have a gambling addiction usually try to borrow money from friends, relatives and coworkers without being specific or truthful regarding where the money is supposed to go. In most cases, the borrower fails to repay the money borrowed.

Other less noticeable signs of a gambling addiction are trips to the venue of gambling area or race track, following the progress of some games or events and having slips of paper which note down gambling or game details.

These signs may also point to some other addiction or compulsion. It is better to be observant about the person’s behavior and activities before any confrontation because it could just be a personal problem which he may have a difficult time dealing with. A gambling addiction can really hurt a person financially, physically and psychologically. Dealing with loved one’s gambling addiction needs to be handled with care and sensitivity because some gamblers have no idea that they are already addicted to it.

food addiction

2008-08-01T16:40:00.000-07:00

Battling Food Addiction And Weight Control Issues

Millions of Americans are fighting a losing battle with their weight. Now more than ever, we are seeing a sharp increase in the number of people in this country who are overweight by more than twenty pounds. While some weight issues are certainly caused by genetic issues, recent studies have shown that there may be another, deadlier underlying cause to this growing trend – food addiction.

Just like addictions to illicit drugs, a food addiction can be deadly. Often those afflicted with an addiction to food do not realize that this is their problem until it is too late. We see it all the time on the talk shows in this country – people who have literally eaten themselves to death. But for those who are still alive and battling this deadly addiction, there is still hope.

Treatment Options

While the underlying cause of food addiction is psychological, there are medical, physical treatments available for the symptoms of food addiction. The most obvious symptom is, of course, obesity. The most common treatment today is a type of surgery which prevents you from being able to eat as much as you’d like. There are several different forms of this surgery, but each of them has been considered a lifesaver for many unable to control their food addiction.

Psychological treatment is also recommended for those who are trying to overcome a food addiction. Intense counseling sessions are designed to help them break their psychological need for food, and to help them instead recognize when their need for food is due to the fact that their bodies need sustenance. Usually, those who suffer from food addiction are unable to distinguish their cravings from actual hunger, and so they end up constantly eating.

As with any other addiction, a food addiction can also be treated through the use of anti-depressants. Because of the fact that many addictions are caused by underlying psychological factors, such as depression and chemical imbalances, these drugs have been shown to be highly effective in helping to break the addictive cycle.

Food addiction is a very real, and very disturbing, affliction that affects millions of people all around the world. The health implications of this deadly addiction are just as frightening as those of heroin addictions. Diabetes, heart attack, stroke – all very real side effects of food addiction, and all very damaging to the human body.

If you think you may be suffering from a food addiction, please talk to your doctor as soon as possible. He or she will be able to offer you suggestions so as to treat your addiction.

email addiction

2008-08-01T16:02:00.002-07:00

Dealing With Email Addiction

Among the many addictions that have formed in the recent years, one of the most debated is email addiction. Many people believe that the constant and obsessive checking of email is an addiction while others just think that this is a sign of productivity. Many people argue that what others see as an obsession or compulsion is actually hard work.

In spite of this positive aspect of email addiction it can not be helped that there really are some people who are compulsive regarding checking their email every few minutes or every time a new email alert sounds off. There are many people who suffer from email addiction but they are not really aware of this and so are their co-workers, family and friends. Using the internet and checking on emails is such a natural thing to do these days that email addiction is often overlooked.

The reason why many people obsessively check their email is because of the rush of emotion or glee they feel when they get correspondence. Email addiction stems from a dependency on email to bring good news or a sense of belonging. Some people equate emails as signs of love from their loved ones and friends. There is a deeper rooted reason why people who have an email addiction are dependent on an electronic messaging method.

How To Deal With Email Addiction

As with other addictions, email addiction should be first recognized by the person suffering from this before any progress can be made to breaking from this obsession or compulsion. The other steps to dealing with an email addiction are to set up your computer in such a way that it helps you deal with it. An example is to turn off the message alert when you get a new message. This will help you deal with the urge to check your mail when you hear the alert.

You can also try to discipline yourself by setting a time frame in which you check your mail. This may be more difficult than it sounds and will need for you to have more self control. Another way of weaning yourself from email addiction is to try not to act on the compulsion to check on your email when you feel like it.

It is also a good idea to try and have a life outside of the world wide web. Deal with your computer and the internet for just the necessary time that you have to. If you have the free time, go out and leave your inbox behind.

effects of drug addiction

2008-08-01T16:02:00.001-07:00

Recognizing The Effects Of Drug Addiction In Your Teen

Many a parent questions their teens behavior at one point in time or another. But every parent’s worst is always that they will one day find that their child has become addicted to some sort of illicit drug. Watching anxiously for any sign of erratic behavior, has caused many parents’ hair to turn grey virtually overnight. This isn’t necessary if you know how to recognize the effects of drug addiction in your teen, and are able to stop their destructive behavior before it gets the best of them.

Recognizing the effects of drug addiction in your teen isn’t difficult as long as you understand what to look for. Below you will find some of the early warning signs that your teen may be battling a drug addiction, along with useful tips on how to get him or her the help they need.

Withdrawal

Although withdrawing from family is a normal part of adolescence, an extreme and sudden withdrawal from both family and friends can be one of the effects of drug addiction in your teen. If you have noticed that your teen has become even more sullen and withdrawn than usual, you may want to talk to them (or at least try to) about what they are experiencing.

A lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities can also be one of the effects of drug addiction in teens. If your teen was once active in his or her school, church, or community, and suddenly shows little or no interest in these activities, it may be a sign that he or she is battling the effects of drug addiction.

Weight Loss

A sudden and extreme weight loss is also one of the effects of drug addiction in teens. Even though this may have roots stemming from an eating disorder, rapid weight loss is usually indicative of drug use; and you should get your teen into the doctor as quickly as possible. Even if your teen’s sudden weight loss is not due to the effects of drug addiction, it may have a serious underlying cause, and should be treated immediately.

Poor Performance

Again, although every teen will typically experience a decline in their grades during their high school years, a sharp drop on your teen’s report card can be one of the effects of drug addiction. As can a sudden lack of interest in their part time jobs, or even just getting out of bed in the morning.

If you think that your teen is experiencing any of the effects of drug addiction, it is imperative that you get him or her help as early as possible. All too often parents put off trying to help their teens until it is too late, purely out of the fear of being rejected. Just remember that you are the parent, and if counseling or admission into a drug rehabilitation center is what your child needs, then it is up to you to make certain that he or she gets it.

Although the effects of drug addiction can be quite frightening when they present themselves in your child, catching them early and taking action now can save your teen from a life of addiction.

drug addiction treatment

2008-08-01T16:01:00.003-07:00

Drug Addiction Treatment Options

Drug addiction is a terrible thing to have to battle. But there is no reason why you should have to fight it on your own, as there are numerous types of drug addiction treatment options available to those who are ready for a major change in their lives. Whether you prefer an out-patient type treatment, or you feel that you may need to go through an intensive detoxification and rehabilitation program, there are many ways and places you can go for drug addiction treatment.

Out-Patient Counseling

Some people are capable of a drug addiction treatment program that utilizes an out-patient program. These people attend counseling sessions anywhere from once daily to once weekly, and are otherwise able to go about their normal daily routines such as school and work. It is important to remember, however, that out-patient drug addiction treatment programs do not work for everyone.

As with any drug addiction treatment program, one of the most vital aspects of an out-patient treatment program is a strong support system outside of the program. Having family and friends around you that understand and support your treatment program is essential to being able to sustain your treatment. Without a solid support system, it is altogether too easy for those fighting addiction to revert back to their dangerous habits.

In-Patient Detoxification

Another type of drug addiction treatment is in-patient detoxification. These rehabilitation centers offer treatment on an in-patient basis, and require a commitment of anywhere from thirty to ninety days. These programs are an intense process of detoxification and rehabilitation that completely retrain your system to let go of its unnatural habits.

People who go through an in-patient drug addiction treatment program are carefully monitored throughout the entire process, so as to prevent any type of destructive behavior. Often, people are sent to an in-patient drug rehabilitation program as a result of suicide attempts; and so these are carefully watched so as to ensure their safety. All who attend these programs are taught the importance of a proper diet, given daily counseling, and also receive instruction on how to utilize an exercise routine to help combat addiction.

Regardless of which type of drug addiction treatment program you choose to implement in your fight against a deadly habit, the fact remains that there are many programs available, and that there is certain to be one that will work for you. Talk to your physician or to a local health department worker, and ask about drug addiction treatment programs available in your area today.

drug addiction rehabilitation

2008-08-01T16:01:00.001-07:00

Do Drug Addiction Rehabilitation Centers Work?

“Rehab” seems to be the new Club Med for young, beautiful celebrities such as pop starts and actresses. Although drug addiction rehabilitation centers have helped turn the lives around of celebrities like Robert Downey, Jr, can they also help the average person or person down on their luck who is a drug addict? The short answer is no. No one pill, speech or drug addiction rehabilitation center will work turning an addict around all by themselves. The addict has to want to be cured and work at getting cured.

Tool Givers

Everybody has lived through a scene like this, but hardly any of us will admit it. You look at Joe, the town drunk, pulling on a can of Super Brew and you ask, “So, uhh, Joe – how was rehab?” Joe answers, “It wasn’t bad. Very nice vacation. If only they’d let you drink, it would be perfect.”

Now, this doesn’t happen for every addict ordered to alcohol or drug addiction rehabilitation centers, or even those who enter voluntarily. But if the addict doesn’t want to stop, they will pass the rehab program with flying colors just so they can go back using or drinking again.

But for those who really want help, a drug addiction rehabilitation center is a Godsend. They get shaken out of their usual surroundings and taught to confront their inner demons without the crutches of alcohol or drugs. They let the counselors give them the tools for coping with their lives and practice how to use them. They often get counseling, nutritious food and given very odd time consuming tasks (such as cleaning an entire bathroom with a toothbrush) in order to keep them distracted.

You Can’t Go Home Again

The real test of how successfully the addict has learned their new tools is when they go back to their usual lives. They have to walk by their drug of choice being used by others, by their dealers, by the places they used to use and not give in to the subconscious associations with using. Some addicts have to give up all of their “friends” (fellow addicts) and move to a different town in order to be free of these associations.

An addict usually relapses. Another stay in a drug addiction rehabilitation center can help remind them of the tools they had learned preciously and to let them know that they are not a lost cause. But again, this only works if the addict really is committed to quitting.

drug addiction rehab

2008-08-01T16:00:00.004-07:00

The Process Of Drug Addiction Rehab

If you, or someone you love, is suffering from a drug addiction, you may be wondering what is involved in the drug addiction rehab process. Many wonder if it will be worth it, and if they can even afford it. We want you to have all the answers to these questions, and more; which is why we have attempted to bring you the most comprehensive information available about what – exactly – is involved in the drug addiction rehab process.

Checking In

Checking into a drug addiction rehab program is the first, and probably the most vital step of the entire process. After all, if you don’t check in, you can’t get help. Many are intimidated by the idea of having to walk into a rehab center and ask for help. But you will find that those who work at these centers are filled with nothing but kindness, and a willingness to help anyone who wants to break free from their addiction.

It is a good idea to have someone else drive you when you check into a drug addiction rehab center, not only for support, but also so that anything you may bring that the center doesn’t allow you to keep can be taken home. Be sure to bring identification with you, and if you have it, your insurance card. Do not bring any cigarettes or drugs with you, unless they are prescription. And you should be sure to bring a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Drying Out

Once you have been processed, you will be taken to a room and begin the drying out process. This is the second step in a drug addiction rehab program – getting the drugs out of your system completely. With some centers, you will be given prescribed drugs to help your body wean itself off of the illicit drugs; in others, you will be required to quit cold-turkey. There are many schools of thought as to which process is the best, but all are in agreement that it is the end which justifies the means.

Getting Healthy

The next step in the drug addiction rehab process, is the process of getting healthy. Both in mind, as well as body. You will attend counseling sessions several times daily; both private and group sessions, to help you combat the psychological effects of breaking your addiction. You will also be taught the importance of a healthy diet to keep your body healthy after the effects of addiction. Exercise, diet, and a solid support system are what make drug addiction rehab such a potent tool in the fight against addiction.

drug addiction counseling

2008-08-01T16:00:00.003-07:00

Drug Addiction Counseling Essential For Homeless

Make no mistake – drug and alcohol addiction happens in any every economical level, but it seems to hit the homeless especially hard. No child ever thought, “When I grow up, I want to be a homeless drug addict!” Life just has a way of happening, and happening hard. Although many addicts become homeless because of their addictions, many people become homeless through no fault of their own. It is only when on the street when they turn to alcohol or drugs in order to cope. That is why free drug addiction counseling is essential for every homeless person.

Even For Those Homeless Who Aren’t Addicts

Many homeless people are lovers, spouses or children of addicts. When I was a homeless person in England, I met many addicts and non-addicts, and we all needed the drug addiction counseling provided by the local day centres (that’s how it’s spelled in England). Not only did we need to know what was going on with the people we loved with this free drug addiction counseling, but we also had to know what we were getting ourselves in for.

Some people find themselves homeless because they have to run away from an abusive situation (usually due to drug addiction) and do not know where to turn but the street. I met a lot of teenage runaway boys who were not addicts but would probably become ones soon because that was the only life they saw. More than one of these lads decided to go back home or to another relative’s after they received drug addiction counseling – even though they were not addicts themselves.

The Intimidation Of Strangers

It takes a long time for a social worker or humanities specialist to develop a trusting relationship with a homeless person, whether tat homeless person is an addict or not. Any homeless person learns to be distrustful and secretive in order to survive. For example, it took three years before I asked for medical help for my major depression. And all that time, they waited for me to ask, letting me go at my own speed, even though later on they claimed I really frustrated them!

Free drug addiction counseling has to go out to the homeless in places where they are comfortable and can be assured of not being turned over to the authorities for any reason, real or imagined. This counseling can be individual talks from a nurse or social worker, or group talks. Everyone in the homeless and lower income community should be invited, even if they are not addicts. It’s so scary going to a stranger for help.

drug addiction

2008-08-01T16:00:00.001-07:00

What Parents Should Know About Teenage Drug Addiction

Teenage drug addiction is one of the most common problems faced by parents in the country today. Studies show that about 36 percent of teenagers in the United States are hooked different forms of illegal drugs and about one-half of American teenagers are most like to experiment on drugs before they graduate from high school. This rate is really alarming considering that many of these young people are not really aware of the negative impacts of drug addiction in their bodies. More often than not, these kids just want to have some fun that’s why they take drugs.

Most these teenagers who experiment on drugs do so due to peer pressure. According to experts, young people who want to belong to “in” crowd at school experiment on drugs to be accepted by their peers. Unfortunately, a single experiment could lead to drug addiction and a lot of troubles. In some extreme cases, these experiments can cause the loss of lives. If you are one of those parents who have teenagers at home, here are some things that you can do to stir your kid away from drug addiction.

Find Our Who Are Your Kid’s Friends

Friends can have tremendous influence on your kid. To stir you kid away from drug addiction and other troubles, find out about your kid’s friends. Do this is a discreet and non-invasive way. Always remember that teenagers can be quite protective of their privacy. Instead of asking your kid about his or her friends, throw a barbecue party and ask your kid to invite some of his or her friends. Inviting your kid’s friends over to the house is the best way to get to know them better. You may also encourage the kids to hang around the house every now and then so that you can observe them without really appearing too nosy or something.

Divert Your Kids Attention To Worthwhile Activities

Being engaged in some worthwhile activities can help keep your kid away from drug addiction. If your kid is interested in some worthwhile hobby, support him or her. Make him or her feel that you are genuinely interested in what he or she is doing. For instance, if your kid in interested in sports, encourage him or her to join sports activities at school or in your community. Note that if you kid is preoccupied with something; he or she will have less chances of associating with undesirable people. Moreover, if your kid is into team activities, he or she will not only develop physically, he or she will also improve socially and emotionally.

depression and addiction

2008-08-01T15:59:00.002-07:00

Relation between Depression and Addiction

Recent studies suggest that depression and addiction recurrently go hand in hand. There is a strong correlation between depression and addiction problem. Some conventional psychiatric treatment procedures focus on treating depression of an addict’s root cause contributing to the drug or alcohol abuse problem, while some others consider depression as a symptom typically revealed after a person gets addicted into substance abuse.

In most of the cases, addicts are in a worsening or poor state of health. When they experience their high, they are in a euphoric state of mind in which they simply become numb to any sort of pain sensations, both emotional and physical. Long-time drug and alcohol abusers also suffer from nutritional deficiencies. Addiction is a progressive complication. Due to prolonged addiction problem, addicts face variety of emotional, social and physiological problems such as job loss, broken relations, and discontinuation in studies, financial bankruptcy, legal problems and many others, which lead to experience recurrent episodes of depression. So in one way or other, depression and addiction is highly correlated with each other, especially considering the consequences of addiction.

Role of Depression in Relapse

Depression is a critical mental health condition that most frequently coexist with substance abuse disorders. Untreated depression can hinder the addiction recovery process and may lead to relapse. On the other hand, untreated addiction problem may also develop depression and consequently lead to relapse. Hence, this vicious cycle of depression and addiction needs to be understood thoroughly and it requires simultaneous treatment.

Typically, the ideal treatment for addiction must focus on the deepest root of addiction and its consequences incorporating a thorough understanding the relation between addiction, recovery, depression and relapse. The treatment must entail a clear understanding on the bio-psychosocial model of addiction and depression. The fundamental principle of treatment will only be established by treating depression coexisting with addiction. The recovery plans need to address the administration of signs and symptoms of both depression and addiction.

Few Essential Facts

In practice, chronic depression is an integral part of hard reality that addicts face especially during their recovery. They feel depressed seeing the destruction caused in their life by themselves only. Prolonged usages of drug alter the brain programming in such a maladaptive manner that they always search for escapement from hard reality. So, this depression may again lead them to use drugs all over. So some people describe depression and addiction as married couple who can not exist without each other.

Although addicts’ brain are programmed for quick relief and instant gratification, but one should not use anti-depressants even when he feels depressed during recovery. Anti-depressants offer nothing more than a temporary solution. It is better to seek family support at the time of depression or ask for help from volunteers who are continuously contributing in the field of addiction.

definition of addiction

2008-08-01T15:59:00.001-07:00

We Need A New Definition Of Addiction

The word “addiction” has been tossed about so much in the media and by medical professionals to describe everything from alcoholics to overprotective parenting, that perhaps we need a new definition of addiction. This way, at least we will all have common ground to know what medical professionals and the media are talking about.

The Usual

The bible of the American Psychiatric Association, the Diagnostic And Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (or the DSM) has the usual definition of addiction: “A physical dependency to a substance that results in withdrawal symptoms in its absence.” However, this does not cover compulsive and destructive addictions such as gambling or over shopping. These are just as serious addictions for the addict (and especially the addict’s family) as an alcoholic, “crack-head” or “junkie”.

According to the usual definition of addiction, caffeine is the largest addiction on the planet. We do experience physical withdrawal symptoms when we are shut off from caffeine (the severity varies according to the individual). This writer, for instance, gets migraines if she doesn’t have a cup of tea or a small square of chocolate every 21 hours. However, I’m able to keep my promises and hold down a job. Am I an addict?

Coping Mechanism

There are many in the psychiatric field that propose and use a new definition of addiction. In this definition of addiction, addiction as seen as a coping mechanism to stress that has turned into a sick compulsion, due to a physical illness as well as emotional ones. This compulsion becomes so overwhelming in the addict’s life that following it overrides everything else – family, food, finances and fundamental essentials of survival all mean nothing to the addict. They are only worried about fulfilling their compulsions, whether this is work, sex, shopping, chemicals or even playing video games.

With this new definition of addiction, we can see right away what the cause of addictions are (stress and how to cope) and hopefully can help better understand the addict and get them treatment. It is thought that there is a chemical in the brain that only runs in certain families that causes one person to become addicted and one not to be. That is still a theory, but addictions definitely run in families, whether by nature or nurture.

The addiction gives a false sense of security and control to the addict. The causes for addictions are often very complex, but it usually boils down to a feeling of worthlessness that just becomes to painful to deal with.

coffee addiction

2008-08-01T15:52:00.000-07:00

Coffee Addiction: Why People Should Give Up Drinking Coffee

Coffee addiction is a very common nowadays. Many of us could not really function well without a cup of coffee especially in the morning. Coffee can certainly boost our energy and can keep us alert. However, the perks that coffee can offer the body do have their price. If you are one of those people who cannot live without a cup of coffee in the morning, you might want to look closely at your coffee drinking habits.

According to experts, coffee addiction can have some really bad consequences on your body. An overdose in caffeine can lead to irritability, headaches, mood swings, and difficulty in concentrating, insomnia and diminished productivity. On extreme cases, coffee addiction can cause heart diseases, hypoglycemia, cancer and disorders in the nervous system. Yes, coffee does have some positive impacts on the body and it can even help fight Parkinson’s disease but if you take a look at the full equation, the negative effects of coffee outweigh the positive.

Getting Off The Brew

Coffee addiction, like any other types of addiction can be quite difficult to shake off. According to experts, once our bodies get used to caffeine, it will crave for caffeine everyday. The craving can s0 very difficult to suppress at times that for some people, no matter how they try to give up drinking coffee, they always find themselves lining up in front of the coffee machine, eager to get their serving for the day. However, the good news is that it is not impossible to give up your daily dose of caffeine. You just have to be patient and very creative in diverting your attention from the brew.

One of the best ways to get over coffee addiction is to divert your attention from coffee. Find a substitute for coffee. For instance, instead of drinking coffee, you might want to go shift to drinking tea. However, you have to be careful in choosing your tea. Note that some types of tea contain huge amounts of caffeine so be careful. To make sure that your tea does not contain lots of caffeine, go for green tea. Green tea is known for its mild flavors and medicinal value.

If you do not like green tea, you may want to try some other forms of coffee substitute. There are many coffee substitutes being sold in the market today. You may sample some of those products that use ingredients such as beetroot, almost, fig, corn and the likes.

cocaine addiction

2008-08-01T15:51:00.003-07:00

What We Get From Cocaine Addiction

Addiction of any kind can be hurtful for the person suffering from it. Cocaine addiction or any kind of substance abuse can lead to many health issues not only for the person using it but also for those who are around the individual. This addiction usually starts with the curiosity of this forbidden substance. Many individuals who have cocaine addiction believe they can stop themselves voluntarily but the need for this illegal substance is so great that it can be compared to food and water.

Effects Of Cocaine Addiction

The initial symptoms of cocaine are accelerated heart rate and blood pressure, hyper activity and euphoria. This is what usually hooks a person to cocaine, the feeling of such bliss and euphoria that they wish to experience the fleeting moment again. This is the time that it becomes a cocaine addiction. The need to feel the ecstatic feelings produce by the substance and the compulsion to take the substance again to feel these feelings is the triggers to cocaine addiction.

As users get more and more hooked to the illegal substance, the symptoms of cocaine addiction affects our brain and functions of the body. Chronic cocaine use affects the brain of the user by producing a depressed state due to our neurotransmitters trying to compensate for the imbalances which cocaine creates in the brain. Other signs of the addiction are suicidal tendencies due to the depression created by our brain and the need for larger doses to counteract the tolerance that cocaine addiction builds for long term users.

Other risks that cocaine addiction has for long time users are the increased risk of heart attacks, connective tissue diseases, kidney disease and renal failure. Cocaine addiction also brings about the risk of hemorrhagic strokes and lesser attention span. Males and females with a cocaine addiction also run the risk of having children with abnormalities even if they stop using the substance during the duration of pregnancy. More effects of this addiction are the disappearance of the cartilage in the nose, ischemic stroke, lung trauma, shortness of breath, dyspnea and some symptoms which are flu like.

There are no benefits for cocaine addiction. This addiction deteriorates brain function and physical capacities. People suffering from cocaine addiction will need strong support from family and fiends in order to overcome it. Same with other addictions, one needs to be willing to end it before any real progress can be done.

chocolate addiction

2008-08-01T15:51:00.001-07:00

Is There Such A Thing As Chocolate Addiction?

A lot of jokes are made about chocolate addiction. (“Ooo, she’s cranky – better give her some chocolate!”) There are even desserts listed in popular chain restaurants as “Death By Chocolate”. But are there actually people who have a psychological compulsion to eat chocolate, even if they are allergic to it? Debate still exists in the medical world as to whether there is such a thing as chocolate addiction. But everyone agrees that there are such things found in chocolate that you can become addicted to – sugar, fat and caffeine.

Women More Affected

Although it is a popular joke that you can get to any woman’s good side with a box of Godiva or a pint of Ben and Jerry’s, women do crave chocolate more than men. This is thought to be due to the hormonal tidal waves women go through every month as part of their normal menstrual cycles. These cravings are especially intense during the pre-menstrual time.

Chocolate does contain similar chemicals that mimic the same chemicals the brain puts out when they are experiencing the sensation commonly known as “being in love”. Chocolate is also associated with rewards, good times and celebrations in most societies. When someone claims they have a chocolate addiction, they have become dependent on the whole chocolate experience in order to feel good about themselves.

Not Dangerous, But Harmful

Those with a serious chocolate addiction problem consume staggering amounts of chocolate, such as two or more bags of fun-size candy, per day. Chocolate was only meant to be a small part of our diets. When your diet becomes mainly chocolate, you risk some serious health problems, including obesity, chronic fatigue, mood swings, tooth decay, diabetes, insomnia and heart problems.

Although chocolate alone won’t kill you, a chocolate addiction or dependency can seriously compromise your quality of life. For example, eating an enormous amount of chocolate every day will condition your body to high levels of caffeine, especially if you also drink cola or coffee. Just the caffeine alone will interrupt your sleep patterns and make you feel tired all of the time.

You Can Beat This

In overcoming your chocolate addiction, you need to see a doctor for help and advice for proper nutrition or any dietary supplements you might need. Since you probably get comfort from chocolate, you need to nourish your spirit on other ways of handling stress, such as walking, meditation, taking up a hobby or being creative. Having a regular exercise routine will not only distract you from your cravings, but can also help you manage your stress better.

causes of drug addiction

2008-08-01T15:50:00.004-07:00

The Causes of Drug Addiction

Akin to alcohol abuse, drug addiction has become a critical problem in the world. Although, age doesn’t really matter to be an addict, but the prevalence is noted mainly in youngsters. There are a huge number of theories suggested by different researchers, scientists and theorists, however, none of them have come into a single conclusion to define the exact causes of drug addiction.

In fact, different people explain drug addiction in different ways. Some believe it is genetically predisposed, while others consider it nothing but mental illness. Some also oversimplify it by arguing and relating it to the product of unhealthy lifestyle and risky peer interaction during adolescence period. Many people view it as a disease, while many think it as an inherited illness that make people tend over addiction. Let us explore few most common explanations identified as the causes of drug addiction.

Brain Disease Hypothesis

Brain disease is identified as one of the major causes of drug addiction. It is hypothesized as a specific type of brain disorder that develops over time initially started as a result of voluntary behavior of abusing drugs. Drugs interact with different areas in the brain and alter the level of consciousness, mood, perception and emotional states. Prolonged usages of drugs can alter the function and structure of the brain in a long-lasting fashion that can stick with even after the person stops using drugs. According to this view, addiction is a quintessential bio-behavioral disorder.

Genetic Predisposition

This hypothesis has also received much popularity. Many people consider genetic predisposition may play significant role contributing as one of the major causes of drug addiction. Some researchers also claimed that they have mapped some of the genes responsible for drug abuse. However, there is still a debate on identifying the exact genes, their location and their possible functions on human behavior in general. Whatever is the possibility to identify all of the genes responsible for addictive behavior, it is confirmed that gene and heredity play an important role to make someone vulnerable towards addiction.

Socio-Philosophical Model

Today, most of the drug treatment centre and rehabilitation centers function on the belief that social and philosophical factors are the primary causes of drug addiction. If an addict’s belief system can be altered, he can be free from his drug addiction problem. Although the proponents of this hypothesis consider addiction is a disease, but their conflicting view stems from the conventional idea of associating addiction as a result of bad personal choices, anti-social behavior or weak character. These are not useless till they can motivate people to improve their lifestyle. But the deep-rooted problem of addiction needs more attention than to consider such superficial views propagating as an individual mode of treatment.

alcohol addiction recovery

2008-08-01T15:50:00.003-07:00

Finding An Alcohol Addiction Recovery Program

If you are a recovering alcoholic, it is vital that you begin an alcohol addiction recovery program as quickly as possible so as to help you continue down the road to recovery. A good recovery program will help you to stay the course, and will give you the support you need to keep from falling back into old habits. As with recovering from any addiction, in order for an alcohol addiction recovery program to work, you need to have a good, solid system of support to help you along. Without friends and family around you to help you on your path to recovery, you will be more likely to fall back into those dangerous habits.

The Perfect Program

Finding a good support group, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, will help you on your road to recovering from an alcohol addiction. This alcohol addiction recovery program was founded in the early twentieth century by a doctor who was himself recovering from alcoholism. It was founded as a means for those who were battling with alcoholism to get the support they needed, without having the stigma of their addictions being held over their heads.

The Alcoholics Anonymous alcohol addiction recovery program is designed to allow those from all walks of life to anonymously obtain the support they need from others who are in the same position, or have been in the same position. First names only are allowed in this program, and you never have to tell anyone where you are from, or what you do for a living. It is strictly designed to allow you to get the help you need – anonymously.

Alcoholics Anonymous alcohol addiction recovery groups are available in almost every town across the country. Even if your town is very small and there is no AA group, it is a sure bet that there is an Alcoholics Anonymous alcohol addiction recovery group nearby in your county seat. If you are battling an alcohol addiction, it is vital that you join an Alcoholics Anonymous, or similar group, as early as possible in your recovery.

Other Types Of Programs

Of course, Alcoholics Anonymous is certainly not the only alcohol addiction recovery program available. There are a number of churches across the country that offer addiction recovery programs, as well as out-patient programs offered by many medical clinics. These groups are almost always free to attend, and the support they can give someone battling an alcohol addiction is priceless.

alcohol addiction

2008-08-01T15:50:00.001-07:00

How Alcohol Addiction Can Endanger The Baby Inside Your Womb

Alcohol addiction does not just affect men. There are plenty of women all over the world who are hooked on alcohol and could not stop themselves from drinking. If you are one of those women who have for some reasons developed dependency on alcohol, you should be aware of the impact of alcohol addiction on your body and your reproductive system. According to experts, alcohol addiction can affect the normal menstrual cycle in women and may affect the fertility. Furthermore, taking alcohol while pregnant can have some grave consequences on your body and the fetus inside your womb. The danger of miscarriage is great and the danger of having a mental and physically defective baby is even greater!

Alcohol And Your Baby

According to experts, there is no such thing a safe level of alcohol intake during pregnancy. You cannot just say, “I will limit my alcohol intake to one glass a day because I am pregnant.” Things simply don’t work that way. Note that if you take alcohol, your baby also taste the alcohol. Alcohol addiction is always bad for the baby especially during the first four weeks of pregnancy can cause severe damage to your baby. Note that the central nervous system, the heart, eyes, arms and legs of your baby starts to develop during the first four weeks of pregnancy that if you take any substances that can hinder this development process, your baby might end up with some incompletely developed limbs. The critical development process of the fetus in your womb continues until such time when you deliver your baby therefore, it is imperative that you stay away from any alcoholic beverages during your entire pregnancy.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Alcohol addiction can destroy your baby’s future. Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is irreversible. Children who are born with mental, physical and neurobehavioral disorders will most likely suffer from this disorder for the rest of their lives. Mental retardation and physical malformations can be quite severe in some cases that the child can end up in some institution or die at a very young age.

The fetus inside your womb can suffer irreparable damage from alcohol exposure so if you value the life of your baby, forget about drinking any alcoholic beverages while you are pregnant. Never take things for granted when it comes to your baby. If you are diagnosed with alcohol addiction, you should not become pregnant until such time when you have successful overcome your alcohol addiction.

addiction treatment

2008-08-01T15:49:00.004-07:00

Common Addiction Treatment Strategies

Addiction is a very serious problem which can affect people from various walk s of life. Addiction can also come in many forms some of which are not noticeable. Addiction treatment varies from the kind of addiction that the individual has.

Kinds Of Addiction Treatment

The various kinds of addiction treatment depend on what kind of addiction an individual is experiencing. The motivation to overcome the addiction must come from the person himself. Some addiction treatment methods include counseling, self determination, detoxification and withdrawal from the substance or item that has incurred the obsession or compulsion. In most substance abuse cases of addiction, detoxification and rehabilitation are the more common addiction treatment therapy that experts recommend.

For less serious types of addiction such as email addiction and gambling, the need to realize that there is an addiction is one of the main concerns for therapists. Addiction treatments for these are usually in the form of counseling and sometimes self help. Some addicts also treat themselves by quitting cold turkey. There are some levels of success for those who do quit their addiction this way but sometimes there are also some who return to their former way of life after trying to quit.

Some other forms of addiction treatments are medical therapy or psychotherapy. Medical addiction treatments enlist the help of medication to control impulses and obsessions. There are heated debates regarding the use of medicines to curb addictions. Psychotherapy on the other hand can be more tricky than using medication as addiction treatment. This is because you will need experienced and compassionate doctors to implement this kind of therapy.

The Benefits Of Quitting Addiction

Some people view their addiction as something that they have complete control over. They do not realize that some compulsions or obsessions may need professional help. Addiction treatments are there to extend help to those who wish to start anew and kick their habit. Most addiction ruin your physical and mental health especially those that deal with substance abuse, smoking and liquor. The physical health of the person and mental state usually declines after prolonged exposure to the substance to which he is addicted to.

Addiction treatments are available for many forms of addictions. People who recognize an addiction in themselves as well as in loved ones or friends need to be aware of the risk of the prolonged addiction. Letting things stay as they are can hasten the demise of the person since many addictions has an aspect of danger with them.

addiction to ambien

2008-08-01T15:49:00.003-07:00

Recovering From An Addiction To Ambien

Ambien is a widely prescribed drug used for treating sleep disorders. Unfortunately, it is also a controlled substance, and addiction to Ambien is not uncommon. Ambien causes feelings of euphoria and drowsiness, and can heighten the effects of alcohol and illegal drugs. The body also tends to build a tolerance to Ambien, causing you to require higher doses in order to maintain the effects.

If you are suffering from an addiction to Ambien, take heart, there’s hope. There are many treatment options available for those who are afflicted by addictions to prescription drugs, including rehabilitation centers, and out-patient counseling. There have been many cases of people successfully recovering from an addiction to ambien; and there is no reason why you cannot be one more. Talk to your doctor if you think you may have developed an addiction to the drug, or if you think you may be developing one.

Treatment Options

For those who are currently suffering from an addiction to Ambien, a supervised detoxification period is recommended. As with any narcotic, stopping the drug cold turkey may result in withdrawal symptoms ranging from mild shakes and nausea, to more severe seizures. It is recommended that you complete a total in-patient rehabilitation program if you have become addicted to Ambien, so that you can be monitored for signs of severe withdrawal symptoms, as well as for depression.

If you do choose to attempt to fight your addiction to Ambien on your own, be certain that you have a solid support system in place first. Friends and family that will support you in your efforts are an essential part of stopping any type of addictive behavior. If you do not have this type of support system, you should join a group, such as Narcotics Anonymous, that will offer you help and support while you are becoming drug free.

Other treatment options to help you break free from your addiction to Ambien include out-patient counseling centers. In addition to offering you the option of group sessions that will allow you to get support from others who are also battling an addiction, these counseling centers monitor you for any sort of destructive behavior that may occur as a result of withdrawal from the drug.

Whatever type of treatment option you choose, it is imperative that you seek help. If you think that you may be suffering from an addiction to Ambien, talk to your doctor, clergy, health center, or a trusted friend, and get help with breaking your addiction to Ambien today.

addiction research

2008-08-01T15:49:00.001-07:00

Alcohol Addiction Research Shows Topamax May Help

The makers of the anti-convulsant drug Topamax (active ingredient topiramate)– now most often prescribed for migraine prevention – hope that it can also help alcoholics loose their desire to drink. The goal is to give Topamax to alcoholics who want to quit drinking – even before they have already stopped drinking. The initial alcohol addiction research on Topamax is promising, but also controversial.

“Approaching A Prozac Moment”

The first study of Topamax on alcoholics was done in September of 2003 in England. They found that a side effect of the anti-convulsant seemed to curb alcoholics’ desires to drink. The initial results were so promising that another clinical trial was done outside of Chicago in 2007. One of the doctors who ran the trial said of the results, “We are approaching a Prozac moment.”

What the good doctor meant was that Prozac (fluoxetine), was a tremendous breakthrough in the treatment of major depression, which is a serious and mysterious mental disorder that affects millions (including this writer.) Being given a once a day pill that didn’t require your blood being monitored (such as with lithium) helped a phenomenal amount of people. Prozac is now one of, if not the, most prescribed drug in the world.

Although there are drugs on the market that help alcoholics cope with their withdraw symptoms, it is dangerous to give them the drug when they are still drinking. They have to be dry in order to take the current medications. This fact alone discourages many alcoholics from seeking medical help with their dangerous and destructive addiction. The two clinical alcohol addiction research studies on Topamax look as if it is safe to give while you are still on the bottle. More addiction research will need to be done to prove both its safety and effectiveness.

Controversy Already

Although Topamax wouldn’t be approved by the FDA for alchohol treatment for many years yet – if ever – the results of the two alcohol addiction research clinical trials are causing controversy among professionals who treat alcoholics every day. The goal is to get the alcoholic off of the drink and never touch it again. Giving Topamax while they are still drinking is feared to send a mixed message about the danger of alcohol.

It is also thought that any drug to get anyone off of an addiction willl never work as well in the real world as in tests. Smoking addiction research on drugs to help a smoker quit were astonishingly good in clinical trials – but flopped in the real world. The theory why is that those who volunteer to be human guinea pigs truly want to get off their addiction, while many in the real world do not.

addiction recovery program

2008-08-01T15:48:00.003-07:00

The Benefits Of An Addiction Recovery Program

Many people every year try and fail to fight their addictions to drugs and alcohol. An alternative to fighting this battle on your own, is to enter into an addiction recovery program. These programs can be both in-patient as well as out-patient; and offer you a support system that you simply cannot get if you try to do it by yourself. Many people are reluctant to enter an addiction recovery program, because they believe that they are cost prohibitive. This simply isn’t so. These programs are designed to be affordable for everyone, regardless of income or social status.

Listed below are just some of the many benefits of entering an addiction recovery program. If you or someone you love is battling an addiction to drugs or alcohol, you should talk to your doctor, or local health department, about any addiction recovery program that may be available in your area. Realizing that you may have an addiction problem, is the very first step on the road to recovery.

Medical Treatment

Although many addictions are capable of being fought without the use of prescription drugs, other addictions can be dangerous to break all at once. For these types of addictions, an addiction recovery program will prescribe patients with special prescriptions that will allow the body to wean itself slowly from the substance it is addicted to.

Also, as part of your medical treatment in an addiction recovery program, you will learn to maintain a healthy balance of diet and exercise. Addictions take their toll on the body, and often lead to malnutrition and weakness. The doctors and nutritionists at your chosen rehabilitation center will monitor you carefully in order to ensure that your body heals as you break your addictions.

Psychological Treatment

Although an addiction presents itself as a very real, and very physical issue; the underlying cause of most addictive behaviors are purely psychological. Entering into an addiction recovery program will allow you access to trained mental health professionals who are specifically equipped to help you deal with your addictive personality. This counseling is an important part of breaking the addiction cycle; as the psychological aspect of addiction is even more difficult to break than the physical one.

Included in the psychological aspect of your treatment in an addiction recovery program, are the many group sessions you will be required to attend. These group sessions allow you access to a group of people who are going through the same, or at least a similar, experience as you. Often, having people around you who are also fighting a battle against addiction will help you to continue to fight; and will help you to maintain a healthy lifestyle when you are released from the addiction recovery program.

If you or someone you love is fighting a battle against addiction to drugs or alcohol, talk to your doctor immediately about entering into an addiction recovery program today.

addiction psychology

2008-08-01T15:48:00.001-07:00

How To Specialize In Addiction Psychology

It’s easier to get a psychological degree than a psychiatric one, as you will not need the extensive medical school training required of psychiatrists. However, you will not be able to prescribe medications for your patients. For some psychologists, this is a negative, but to some it is a bonus, as they aren’t required to learn about the latest drugs. But drugs now can be prescribed by general practitioners, so you must provide another vitally needed service. Drugs can’t do their work without counseling. This is especially true in the specialist field of addiction psychology.

Reasons To Choose This Specialty

Many therapists choose to go into addiction psychology just because addictions are such a prevalent problem in modern society. Drugs are easier to get than ever before and many mistakenly believe they offer a pain-free way of escaping internal pain. These drugs include alcohol, prescription drugs and illegal drugs like heroin or opium. But people also get addicted to sex, abusive relationships, work and food. Whenever something takes over a person’s life to the point where they would risk anything in order to fulfill that desire, then they are addicted. Sadly, you will never lack work if you choose to specialize in addiction psychology.

Online Or In Person?

You usually need to already have some sort of therapists’ license before you can enroll in addiction psychology degree programs. Because of the crammed schedules of the usual therapist, online schooling is becoming more and more of an attractive option. Some colleges and universities will offer you the choice of attending a class in person or taking an online course. Depending on the individual program, you may be eligible even if you don’t have a therapists’ license, but a degree in special education or human services.

Colleges and universities are run like a business, which means they will work with you to try and get you to go there. This means that if you ask for financial aid help, they are likely to bust their guts trying to help you out with grants or loans. If you decide to get a loan from your bank, the college should be able to help you with the paperwork. Check with the individual financial aid department of each college or university that offers addiction psychology degree programs you are interested in.

Getting a specialist degree like one in addiction psychology looks incredibly impressive on your resume. And, unlike some other specialist degrees, what you will learn can relate to real life skills in many fields. An addiction psychology degree can open many doors to not only your career, but a great way to help those in need.

addiction intervention

2008-08-01T15:11:00.000-07:00

What Is The Point Of An Addiction Intervention?

One of the great new therapeutic treatments for addicts of any kind was to for the families and friends of the addict to hold what was called an “addiction intervention”. This is when the addict is surrounded by everyone who cares about him or her and told to get help, because the addiction was hurting them. Over the years, employers and employees have even held addiction interventions. Some have even been captured on reality TV shows, such as VH1’s Breaking Bonaduce. Addiction interventions are also pretty standard fare on talk shows such as Dr. Phil. But do they actually work?

A Personal Case

I held several addiction interventions for my alcoholic significant other during the tumultuous time I was with him. None of them did any good. This is not to say that an addiction intervention will not work for EVERY addict, but it sure didn’t help me one iota. Perhaps if there had been a camera crew around, it might have made a difference, but I personally doubt it. My significant other had chosen a career in alcoholism and he thought we were being judgmental and he resented the addiction interventions highly.

It All Depends

Probably the major difference between my ex-boyfriend’s failure to respond to any addiction intervention and the addict in your life may be because my ex only cared about himself. Perhaps the addict you want to hold an addiction intervention for actually cares about hurting other people. They might even care about dying. Those addicts are a bit more open to your suggestions.

If you do hold an addiction intervention, try not to be preachy or demanding. This tends to make the addict think they are being bossed around and most will rebel. Also, it does absolutely no good to hold an addiction intervention when the addict is stoned, drunk or whatever. They will just agree with you to shut you up and they will not remember a word of the actual intervention.

Location, Location, Location

The best places to hold addiction interventions are very impromptu affairs at hospital emergency rooms, jail cells and roadside accidents. Sometimes successful interventions have been held at a friend’s house or some other neutral territory. Holding them in their own homes is a waste of time. It their territory and they can legally throw you out if they don’t like what you are saying.

But no matter what you do, the final decision is always down with the choice of the addict. If you cannot handle that, drop the addict from your life immediately, for they will become dangerous to you eventually if they do not stop.

addiction counseling

2008-07-27T09:55:00.001-07:00

In Overcoming Any Addiction, Counseling Is Key

When battling any addiction, the combatant needs all of the help they can get. Many recovered addicts give the credit to their success to addiction counseling, as well as the support of family or preferred Deity. You don’t have to go to an expensive psychiatrist in a suit in order to get addiction counseling. There are many licensed therapists and counselors all over the place. One of the best addiction counselors I ever met was a registered NHS nurse in England.

Why Bother?

If you are struggling with any kind of addiction, counseling is NOT a sign of mental disorder ort weakness. Research is showing more and more that any kind of addiction generally has a physical bas to it, as well as emotional or psychological. You would go to a doctor when you break your leg in order to get it healed, wouldn’t you? So, you go for addiction counseling when another part of your body is unwell.

In addiction counseling, you learn not only why you have your addiction, but what you can do besides turn to the addiction in order to help you deal with the problems in life. For example, some women always seem to find themselves in abusive relationships. They are attracted to the same dangerous personality sometimes because they have major (or clinical) depression. In treating the depression – both with medicines and with addiction counseling – they can learn to live life by themselves and that they don’t have to settle for less than the best.

You can also discover that you are not alone if you are in group addiction counseling, which many find themselves in. Not only can you discover that some people have it a lot worse than you, but you get to support each other like a team aiming for a world title. Just knowing that they are not alone has given comfort and strength to struggling addicts.

Where To Find It

When you are really and truly ready to give up your addiction once and for all, you will be able to find the addiction counseling you need. It’s as if the universe moves in a weird way in order to let you find the help you need to help yourself through the rest of your life. A great place to start is with your doctor, social worker or a trusted friend. Doctors and social workers are bound by privacy laws not to reveal your questions for addiction counseling to anyone. If you go online or flip through the phone book, you will be able to find support groups in your area.

Addiction

2008-07-27T09:54:00.000-07:00

Understanding The Nature And Effects Of Addiction

We may not realize it but most of us have experienced certain types of addiction in our lifetime. Although some types of addiction are rather harmless, there are certain types of compulsive cravings that can have devastating to our health and our lives. What is really scary about these compulsive cravings is that it could not be appeased easily. In most cases, the cravings are so intense that the person would do just about anything to satisfy him/herself.

Drug Addiction

Some of the most destructive types of compulsive cravings are those cravings that are induced by drugs and other substances. Some of the most common types of drugs abused by people nowadays include stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, designer drugs and others. Stimulants such as cocaine, amphetamines and methamphetamines are commonly used in most parts of the world.

Since people who are into stimulants often find it difficult to sleep or rest, many of these people also dabble on depressants. Some of the most commonly used depressant drugs such as barbiturates, Phenobarbital, amobarbital and secobarbital. In the recent years, designer drugs such as ecstasy found its way into the American society. Hundreds of Americans are reportedly hooked in this designer drug.

Drugs can have several devastating effects on the person abusing it. The worst part about drug addiction is that drugs can alter the way of thinking of the person. Many people who abuse drugs often suffer severe side effects and some of these side effects can be quite severe. Furthermore, getting off drugs is never easy. Drug addiction is something that is very difficult to shake off that most people who abuse drugs often need to be rehabilitated. Often times, the rehabilitation process can be long and painful. Without the support of the family, a person may not really recover from the effects of drug addiction.

Gambling Addiction

Like drug addiction, gambling can destroy life. According to experts, pathological gamblers find it difficult to control themselves and despite several warnings, these people always head to the gambling house or gamble online. In most cases, pathological gamblers losses not only their money but the people they love as well. Like drug addiction, it is often very difficult for pathological gamblers to give up their habits.

Without therapy and strong support from family members and friends, a gambling addict can face a very bleak and lonely future. In fact, many pathological gamblers become very depressed after losing all his or her money that they become suicidal. Cases of suicides due to gambling debts and losses have been reported in many areas in the country.