Addiction

Some people are under the impression that addiction is a subjective thing. And yes, while certain beliefs, norms and attitudes do play a role in one’s drug or alcohol use, the damaging effects of addiction show that it is both real and tangible. In fact, substance abuse disorders are characterized as a disease with distinct…

Developing an addiction to alcohol and other substances can be devastating to all genders. While any gender can succumb to the weight of addiction, studies show that men typically pursue different drugs. Addiction also affects men differently, which can influence their responses to drugs and the likelihood of becoming addicted. Therefore, drug use could be…

Standing up to addiction requires more effort when your spouse is at your side. What if your spouse uses substances, too? Once you have become sober but your spouse is not ready to give up substances, you might wonder if you can succeed in recovery. Ideally, everyone in your network should be supportive of your…

Motivation for managing a substance use disorder requires persistence and resilience. When you incorporate your recovery regimen into your everyday life, eventually, the two become one and the same. However, while focusing on the things you can control and manage both your life and recovery, it does not mean that at certain points, life won’t…

Binge drinking is a prevalent occurrence in the United States. Further, binge drinking does not have to be associated with a substance use disorder that harms your body and brain. However, if you are a frequent binge drinker, you can develop health problems. Consuming five or more drinks within two hours is considered binge drinking.…

Most people think of drug addicts or alcoholics as unkempt, unemployed and unpredictable. But the truth is that a large number of people struggling with substance abuse are contributing members of society — over 70 percent have a steady job and are employed either full or part-time, in industries that range from hospitality to health…

Maintaining a healthy family dynamic where everyone works together, takes on responsibilities, and accomplishes life goals is challenging. If you live with someone struggling with addiction, it can add many difficulties to the relationship’s dynamic. Over time, addiction creates barriers between you and your loved one where you begin to harbor feelings of disappointment, resentment,…

Many people use the terms compulsion and addiction interchangeably to describe either their or another person’s behavior, however, they are not the same thing. The interchangeable use of these terms also causes confusion with those seeking treatment for specific conditions. Both compulsion and addictive tendencies can have a significant impact on your mental and physical…

After years of substance use and addiction, you might feel emotionally numb. Whether this happens consciously or unconsciously, addiction tends to cause people to turn off their emotions. Sometimes this response occurs due to past trauma, anxiety, fear, stress, or other responsibilities. When you use substances to cope and suppress feelings, you might think that…