Substance use occurs on a continuum, more like addiction, and not everyone who uses a substance categorically abuses it, just like substance abuse does not automatically correlate with psychological dependence. What are the differences between substance use, abuse, and dependence? The lines aren’t always clearly defined, but what is clear is that abuse and dependence…
Most people seeking drug and alcohol treatment are familiar with the short-term effects of alcohol on the brain, from the so-called “positive” effects, such as relaxed inhibitions and a feeling of well being, to the more obviously negative ones, such as slurred speech, impaired movements, and a highly emotional state. Alcohol is such an ingrained…
Overcoming cravings can be the most challenging aspect of overcoming addiction to opiates, but it is possible to do so, and many resources can help the cravings subside. Opiates chemically block the brain from perceiving pain, which reduces the amount of endorphins it needs to release to combat pain naturally. Over time, the brain can…
The effects of doing drugs and drinking alcohol during pregnancy have long been known to have significant effects on a developing fetus. The results of substance abuse during pregnancy range from low birth weight to fetal death, and the realm of repercussions in between is vast. One outcome that occurs due to drug use during…
Heroin is an opiate that creates a sense of euphoria and relaxation in users by blocking the brain’s pain receptors. As drug users move through different substances, the chase for euphoria can get higher. Heroin is often one of those drugs that users resort to when other opiates fail to induce the same amount of…
High blood pressure is a common health concern since it can lead to several issues in the cardiovascular system, brain, kidneys, and more. While researching it, you might have seen that alcohol and blood pressure may be connected. So, does alcohol raise blood pressure? Drinking large amounts of alcohol can raise blood pressure in the…
Sending care packages to a loved one in a drug and alcohol treatment rehab requires a bit of thought and creativity. Most rehab centers have guidelines you’ll need to adhere to, so be sure to check those before you get shopping, too. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind before we offer a…
How to know if someone is on drugs is not always clear-cut and straightforward, and some addicts are better than others at hiding signs of abuse. Since it is critical to intervene with a drug addict, it is imperative that you remain aware of the signs that someone you love is abusing drugs. Below is…
Alcohol abuse affects many parts of the body, and the pursuit of recovery can vary in length for each. How long to reverse effects of alcohol abuse in the body depends on the severity of abuse and for how many years the alcoholic was drinking. Problems associated with alcohol abuse range from physical, emotional, social…
The social effects of drugs on society are horrific. Drug abuse results in crime, depleted resources, injuries, worsened livelihoods and the deprivation of childcare and healthcare to innocent citizens. How does drug abuse affect the community? It costs everyone money According to DrugRehab.org, drug and alcohol abuse rake up an annual fee of nearly…
