First developed in the late 19th century by Germany’s Bayer Labs, barbiturates were historically prescribed by doctors to help patients relax and fall asleep. In fact, from 1920 until about 1950, these drugs were essentially the only sedatives available. During the 1960s and 70s, barbiturates were widely used in ... Read More
Learning Center
FHE Health is dedicated to educating the American public—especially individuals, families, and communities—about mental health and substance abuse topics. In our Learning Center, you'll find articles on alcoholism, substance abuse, behavioral and mental health, and other treatment-related issues. Our articles are written both for the person in need of treatment as well as loved ones seeking more information. We also provide information for those who have gone through treatment and are building a new life in recovery.
Featured in Learning Center
Gambling and Suicide: The Hidden Story
The Toll of Online Dating: Surprising New Survey Data
Drug Profile: Barbiturates
5 Tips for How to Quit Smoking Meth, from the Experts
Life for a frequent meth user has more downsides than upsides. There's the constant search for meth to satisfy the cravings and addiction. There's also likely to be serious physical and psychological damage from nonstop meth use. Besides a devastating effect on the overall quality of life, for the addicted meth user, ... Read More
An Eye-opening Look at Therapy Solutions for ADD / ADHD
Certain patterns of behavior can be extremely worrying when you observe them in your child. Erratic behavior, impulsive decision-making, hyperactivity and lack of focus can all be indicative of several disorders, but a very likely one is ADHD. Most parents know that ADHD is a mental disorder that fits loosely in the ... Read More
Step 7 – Removing Our Defects: The Ask That Takes Guts
Step 7 of AA is about committing to a new way of living. It doesn't mean changing fundamentally who you are: you have a personality, spirit, and history that is uniquely you, and getting sober doesn't change that. In fact, working through the 12 steps and seeking a drug- or alcohol-free lifestyle helps you live a life ... Read More
The Dangers of Not Cutting Someone Off at the Bar – and How to Say “No” To Requests for More Drinks
For many people in the service industry, tending bar is a dream job. It's often easier physically than waiting tables, yields plenty of face time with happy patrons and offers the promise of big tips. However, like any job, bartending has its downsides, and that includes facing patrons too drunk to continue ... Read More
Treating Co-Occurring Disorders to Help Prevent Suicide
Substance use and mental health conditions affect people of all ages, and they frequently occur together. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's research into co-occurring disorders, an estimated 21.2 million American adults had both a mental illness and a substance use disorder in ... Read More
How to Make the Most of Group Therapy: Topics That Get Addressed
In a group setting, you come together with others who understand your problems and know what you are experiencing. You can benefit most from group therapy and feel comfortable getting the help you need if you put time and effort into the process. The Advantages of Group Therapy Group therapy is a popular source of ... Read More
How Drugs and Alcohol Can Increase Your Risks of Cancer
Can drinking alcohol cause cancer? Does smoking marijuana increase your risk of developing cancer? There’s a well-established link between cancer and drug addiction. Though most people recognize the psychological and physical damage these substances can create, many don't think of the risk of cancer as a result of ... Read More
