Mental health and substance abuse are often interlinked. In fact, according to survey results, 35% of mentally ill adults in the United States also struggle with substance abuse. Instead of seeking professional help, many people turn to self-medicating with drugs or alcohol. This may provide temporary relief, but the ... Read More
Breaking the Cycle of Addiction and Codependency
Over 20 million people in the United States struggle with substance abuse. Addiction and relationships are often interlinked, resulting in volatile personal lives. Loved ones close to addicts typically find themselves in a codependent role. While some loved ones think they're supporting the individual, these types of ... Read More
The “Fail First” Model for Rehab Insurance
This story isn't new. In fact, it's the same story for many people and families all over the country. It looks like this: Rehab insurance policies often refuse to cover inpatient care as a first option, instead preferring to direct clients to outpatient services that are inadequate for their needs. Take the story of ... Read More
The Dangers of Synthetic Drugs
The media frenzy around synthetic or designer drugs is constant, but drug use isn't a new phenomenon. There are records of ancient cultures using plants for their psychedelic properties as early as 10,000 years ago. Cannabis, cocaine, heroin and LSD are all substances our parents and grandparents will have at least ... Read More
Intelligence and Substance Abuse
Creative and highly intelligent people tend to have a lot in common. Their unique gifts help them push the boundaries of art, music, business and science. Their work often drives strong views and even controversy. Both because of and despite their intelligence, many experiment with drugs and alcohol. Sometimes they ... Read More
Gambling and Suicide: The Hidden Story
Gambling is often seen as harmless entertainment — a night out, a chance to win big or just a fun way to pass the time. For some, however, it becomes much more than that. Gambling addiction can spiral out of control and lead to serious consequences, including gambling-related suicides. The financial strain, ... Read More
Is it an Addiction or a Compulsive Behavior?
Addiction occurs when a person becomes physically or psychologically reliant on a rewarding behavior or substance. Substance use disorder, a common kind of addiction, affects 21 million Americans. The dopamine released by addictive behavior or substances gives the brain a faulty sense of satisfaction. Over time, a ... Read More
How to Forgive a Parent with an Addiction
Loving an addict is difficult at any age, but being the child of a drug-addicted parent can be downright devastating. Addiction is a disease that affects the entire family, and when you're a kid in a household controlled by drugs, you're often faced with situations nobody should ever have to deal with. Maybe you missed ... Read More
