For decades, scientists have wondered if alcohol addiction is genetic or not; the answer is more complex than one may think. According to the American Psychiatric Association, addiction is “…a complex condition, a brain disease that is manifested by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequence.” These individuals will keep abusing alcohol and drugs, even when…
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After a night out with friends, a person may experience a post-drinking headache the next day due to having one too many drinks. While having a celebratory drink once in a while causes no harm and can be fun, a hangover is anything but a fun time. According to Mayo Clinic, “a hangover is a…
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Understanding the risk factors for addiction can help a person prevent a person from experimenting with drugs in the first place. Sadly, some people are more predisposed to developing a dependency on illicit substances than others. After all, no one willingly chooses to become addicted. Drug addiction changes the way a person thinks and behaves,…
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Mental illness, also known as mental health disorders, is a wide range of conditions that can impact your mood, behavior, and thoughts. Although it is normal to feel distraught from time to time, people with mental health conditions display ongoing signs and symptoms that can trigger feelings of stress and discomfort, making it difficult…
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Individuals with mental health conditions are no different than those without them, and there are various ways to treat mental illness. Unfortunately, some people fall for various misconceptions about mental health conditions, often stigmatizing them. Even if it is difficult for someone to talk about their mental health, it can be beneficial to open up…
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A person struggling with a mild substance abuse problem can turn to an outpatient drug treatment center for support. When most people hear the term “drug treatment center,” they may think of inpatient rehab centers where they must stay for an extended period. Many people are unfamiliar with outpatient treatment options. Still, it is essential…
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Illegal drugs refer to highly addictive and outlawed substances, such as marijuana, heroin, cocaine, and meth. Although the choice to use drugs for the first time is usually voluntary, some people become addicted, making it significantly harder to quit. Unfortunately, drug addiction changes how a person’s brain is wired, and their thoughts and actions are…
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One of the most challenging aspects of addiction is the recovery process. Navigating the motions of it means becoming well-acquainted with your habits. This period is when a person recovering from addiction becomes attuned with why they became dependent on a drug in the first place. Most importantly, recovery is the perfect time for a…
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Battling a substance abuse disorder is challenging, but many people do not consider how addiction affects families. Since illicit substances can have negative, life-changing effects on the user, a person may overlook how addiction impacts the user’s loved ones. Not only do users face long-term emotional, financial, legal, and medical hardships, but so do their…
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COVID-19 has taken its toll on the economy and people’s mental health. To deal with the effects and stress of social distancing and loss of a job, people turn to comfort, which could mean abusing drugs or alcohol. However, those who develop an addiction and need rehabilitation also have to feel safe in their environment.…
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