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…
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…
Methamphetamine, also known as meth, is one of the most destructive substances to the body. While all substance abuse and addiction wreak havoc on the human body, few are as devastating as meth in the same period. The Chemistry of Methamphetamine Methamphetamine, commonly referred to as meth, is a powerful central nervous system stimulant that…
Since many drugs are often referred to by their street names, you might not know the difference between a hit of Tina and a gram of Amy. When drugs slide under the radar by pseudonyms, they can penetrate both deep crevices and unassuming social hotspots in a wave of destruction. Though they are often lumped…
If you’re wondering how to deal with an angry drunk, keep reading. Alcohol is often associated with anger, aggression, and abuse. In fact, a recent study shows that alcohol is involved in about half of all violent crimes, more than any other drug. The phrase “angry drunk” is extremely common for a reason. But which…
So, you’re sober and damn proud of it. Or maybe you’re trying your very best to get back on the straight and narrow. Perhaps you have a buddy that needs to be. Whatever the case, you may be finding yourself with a less-than-desirable social life because, guess what, alcohol is everywhere. Everywhere. At work events,…
If you’re a casual drug user, you may be wondering where to draw the line between recreational use and addiction. Scientists are continually learning more about what causes addiction, and while they don’t have it completely figured out, it’s clear that there are physiological, social, and environmental influences. In this article, we’re going to define…
The suffering of a loved one can sometimes be so painful to endure, that we forget to remember it’s not our own affliction. When we care for someone deeply, their pain becomes our own. Without realizing it, we align their successes with our happiness and their failures with our sadness. This interdependent relationship…
