What Are Behavioral Addictions and How Do You Recognize Them?
What Are Behavioral Addictions? Behavioral addictions are, in short, addictions to certain behaviors. Instead of alcohol or other substances, it’s a compulsive behavior that a person struggles with. Accordingly, the same “reward” chemicals are released in the brain, but a behavioral addiction doesn’t involve outside substances. There are other terms to describe behavioral addictions, including: […]
An Alcohol-Free Halloween
Is a Sober Halloween Possible? Every season has its challenges for those in recovery. During the summer months, summer beach parties may be hard to manage. But now that summertime is over, the fall present challenges of its own. The autumn season can feel ruled by the presence of Halloween and its festivities, including the […]
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome in Adults: Symptoms and Solutions
What Is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome? Our actions, especially when it comes to substance abuse, affect everyone around us. One serious example of this is known as “fetal alcohol syndrome” (FAS). This syndrome occurs when a mother is pregnant and continues to drink alcohol throughout the pregnancy. Moreover, her choices can have a lasting impact on […]
Helping a Loved One Start Recovery: The Conversation
First Steps to Recovery Do you have a loved one who’s struggling with substance abuse? If you do, you’re not alone. According to the Journal of Addiction Medicine, over 21 million people in the US struggle with substance abuse disorder (SUD). This means that the number of family members impacted is even greater. We know […]
The Trouble with Alcohol and Xanax
To Mix or Not to Mix? Medications like Xanax, even if prescribed, should never be taken lightly. They’re still chemical substances that should be handled with care, especially when it comes to mixing with other substances. And alcohol is no exception. Generally, it’s better to avoid alcohol if you are taking Xanax since they both […]
Neuroplasticity: What It Is and What It Has to Do With Addiction
What is Neuroplasticity? The brain is one the most complex organs in the human body. It is composed of synapses, or small structures that neurons use to communicate with each another. Over time, some synapse connections can grow stronger, while others weaken as we get older. Because our brains are so adaptable, they change according […]
The Dangers of Fentanyl and Addiction
What is Fentanyl? Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid. Producers make it in a lab and chemically modify it to be stronger than other opioids such as heroin or morphine. Doctors prescribe it to patients in severe pain, most commonly after serious surgeries. Although fentanyl is present in a number of legal prescriptions, it’s now increasingly […]
How to Rebuild Your Immune System During Addiction Recovery
Many people recovering from addiction are unaware of their immune health. It can be a tough topic to address, especially when there are so many other things to work on. But your immune recovery is an essential part of your new life. Substance abuse over an extended period of time has harmful effects on a […]
What’s the Difference Between Behavioral Addictions and Substance Addictions?
Addiction can be expressed in a number of ways. These include behavioral addiction and addiction to substances. Although sometimes tricky to identify, behavioral addictions share common biological and behavioral characteristics as substance addictions. Behavioral addictions come in a variety of forms, including conditions such as pyromania, kleptomania, compulsive sexual behavior, compulsive gambling, and compulsive shopping. […]
How to Spot Early Signs of Methamphetamine Addiction
The Dangers of Methamphetamine Abuse Many people have heard the terms “meth” or “crystal meth.” Despite its common use in movies and television, methamphetamine is one of the most dangerous and illicit substance addictions. Since its chemical components are so corrosive, the drug’s effect on the user are incredibly damaging. Αs a highly addictive substance […]
