Illicit drug use is on the rise across the nation. According to the CDC, nearly one in 10 Americans aged 12 and over used an illicit drug within a month prior to a survey that was conducted in 2013, a 13% increase over the number reported in a 2002 survey. Marijuana use accounts for a large portion of reported drug ... Read More
Drug Profile: Dexedrine
In 1929, Gordon Alles, a biochemist, was actively working on an alternative decongestant when he discovered the first known amphetamine. By 1945, amphetamine tablet sales had reached more than $2 million in revenue, with Dexedrine accounting for $650,000 in sales. It is widely believed by experts that this time period ... Read More
How to Tell My Parents I’m Having Mental Health Issues
Mental health issues can sneak up on anyone at any time. Navigating the world each day can become confusing and scary. During times of uncertainty, depression and other mental health challenges can quickly cast shadows over things that used to bring joy. In these times, it can be very hard to open up about an issue ... Read More
The Role of Fathers in Breaking the Cycle of Emotional Unavailability
During treatment for opiate addiction, Megan talked a lot with her counselor about her family of origin, childhood, and, in particular, her father's aloofness. As a child, Megan always blamed herself for her inability to "connect" with her father Sam. Megan's mother lavished affection and attention on her but Sam ... Read More
How to Plan an Intervention for a Loved One with Mental Illness
Updated October 30, 2024 Awareness of mental illness and the importance of treatment has been growing in recent years, thanks to numerous campaigns and celebrity efforts to raise awareness of conditions like addiction, depression, anxiety disorders, and self-destructive behaviors. Despite this progress, many ... Read More
How Negative Emotions Affect Health
If you've recently endured loss, experienced a significant life-changing event or have simply been overtired and overworked, you may be justly concerned about your overall mental health. How can stress negatively affect your mental health? It turns out, much in the same way it can affect your physical health. Have ... Read More
Holistic Mental Health Care: Facts vs. Fiction Re: Alternative Treatments
Today a growing body of alternative treatments for mental health, also known as holistic interventions, are taking consumers by storm. People rave about the wonders of natural herbs and plant-based supplements like St. John’s Wort for depression, Kava for anxiety, and CBD for pain and sleep (among many other “natural” ... Read More
What Is the Purpose of Anonymity in the 12 Step Programs?
By now, most people are aware of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) but what does that second word imply? This discussion will focus on what anonymity is and why it is a central theme in the Alcoholics Anonymous and other 12-Step based programs. What Is AA Anonymity? The word "anonymity" is defined as the state of being ... Read More