Kara W. had her first drink at the age of 14. It was the summer of 2006: My mom had gone out of town, and my dad was home but not very present. We took his beer, my brother and my friends, and I got drunk for the first time. The second time that she got drunk, Kara drank to the point of blacking out and falling in a ... Read More
Search Results for: opioid
Fentanyl: The Story of America’s Deadliest Drug
As America's drug problem continues to evolve, more people are dying as a result of overdoses on one of a variety of opioids, both illicit and legally prescribed. The issue is that these drugs are as easy to access as they've ever been, and more dangerous varieties are also hitting unregulated markets by way of a ... Read More
Janis Joplin’s Struggle With Addiction
Janis Joplin and drugs have long been associated with each other. Learn about her epic rise to fame and tragic downfall due to substance abuse. She may have only had 27 years, but there's no doubt rock star Janis Joplin's legacy will live on forever. Unfortunately, Joplin lost her life to a heroin overdose in 1970 ... Read More
Suspect an Overdose? What to Do
In the event of an overdose, it's necessary to act quickly in an overdose response. Witnessing someone in a life-threatening situation can be scary, but knowing what to do can help to prevent a tragedy. Assess the Situation An overdose is a medical emergency, and while prompt action is necessary, it's crucial to stay ... Read More
Which States Have the Highest Rates of Overdose?
The opioid crisis is a national emergency that leads to tens of thousands of deaths each year. Despite increased efforts to limit access to both prescription and illicit opioids, the death toll has continued to climb. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that in 2020, the United States saw nearly ... Read More
Effects of Overdosing: How Long Does an Overdose Last?
If you or a loved one is abusing substances, the concern of an overdose happening is constant. An overdose can be accidental or intentional. Individuals can overdose on various substances, including illicit drugs, prescription medications, alcohol and more. While the risk of an overdose can be constant, it carries many ... Read More
“Recovery Ready” Workplaces: How to Join the Movement
When recovering from a substance use disorder, working in an environment where addiction or mental health topics aren't discussed can feel isolating. This can make connecting with others difficult, further impacting well-being and causing additional issues, such as reduced motivation and work performance. However, when ... Read More
Amphetamine Overdose
Often referred to as 'uppers' on the street, amphetamines are stimulants that specifically target the central nervous system. These drugs increase the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain, which can result in improved alertness, focus, and feelings of euphoria. Too much amphetamine at once, however, can lead to ... Read More