Addiction describes an entire journey, wherein a person becomes entrapped in harmful behavior that poses a threat to both their mental and physical health. What’s not as clear in this definition are the smaller, moving parts that explain the very nature of addiction. Because this delineation isn’t always straightforward, many people assume that addiction and…
The harm reduction model of alcohol and drug treatment is a concept that assumes that ceasing drug use altogether isn’t realistic for some people. Since the assumption is that people aren’t going to just stop using drugs, harm reduction refers to a set of programs, policies, and practices that aim to reduce social and economic…
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) estimates that there are roughly 2.4 million intravenous drug users in the US, each injecting on average 1,000 times per year. Dirty needles pose a huge risk to drug users and the greater population. When drug users share needles, they put themselves at risk for HIV and other infections…
Sometimes the greatest line of defense against drugs and alcohol is having the self-confidence to say “no.” It’s such an obvious maneuver that it almost seems cliché to address. However, for some people, the idea of saying no is a battle of peer pressure and personal strife. In order to address these concerns, we’ve outlined…
Treating addiction is not a “one size fits all” approach. In fact, treatment is based on each individual, as well as the facility through which they seek help. Most rehabilitation centers offer a mixture of therapies that address the various physical and mental health issues related to addiction. These treatments are examined against a wealth…
Parenting, while a great honor, is a tremendous responsibility. As parents, we are tasked with both protecting our children and teaching them to fend for themselves. It’s an incredibly delicate balance — the execution of which tends to spark a great deal of debate. There isn’t one perfect way to raise a child. And because…
What is an addictive personality? According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, addiction is a prolonged disease of the brain, affecting the reward centers, and thus, behaviors, drive, retention, and cognition. Researchers believe that a blend of environment, genetics, and family history contribute to one’s risk of addiction. When these factors show up in…
Going to the doctor can be an intimidating experience. You’re completely vulnerable, and many of the questions you must answer in writing are extremely personal. There’s even a named disorder for fear of doctors — roughly three percent of the general population suffers from Iatrophobia or fear of going to the doctor. Fear of disclosing…
