How Family Therapy can get everyone through Addiction

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When addicts are in need of professional help, families are often the ones to push them to seek it, whether it’s convincing them to attend rehab by holding an intervention or offering to pay for it if they agree to attend. What many people may not realize is how the family could benefit from addiction

5 Things You Should Know About Benzo Withdrawal

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The Brain Two systems in the brain work opposite one another: glutamate and GABA (gamma amino butyric acid). Glutamate is like a gas pedal which gets things started. GABA slows things down. Benzodiazepines damage GABA receptors so glutamate is free to push the brain into hyperspeed which over-excites the entire body. When GABA receptors are

Examining the Steps: Step 1

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The first step in the 12-step process is admitting powerlessness over addiction. To admit powerlessness for some is to admit defeat, when society seems to promote individuality, managing life without anyone else’s help and finding ways to keep pushing through struggles. To admit the need for help is a first step towards receiving the necessary

Withdrawal Symptoms of Xanax Addiction

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Xanax (alprazolam) withdrawal symptoms can show up in a short period of time after the medication has worn off. Feelings of being ill and achy may occur, but may also include cold or stomach flu-like symptoms. Withdrawal happens when the body develops a dependency to Xanax, or any other drug, and can take anywhere from

What Constitutes a Relapse

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The cycle of addiction has many ups and downs. An alcohol or drug relapse occurs after a person experiences recovery then returns to using their substance of choice. Addiction is a chronic disease, prone to periods of relapse. Triggers and other risk factors may increase the risk of using alcohol or drugs. A relapse is

Why Do I Keep Relapsing?

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The keys to avoiding chronic relapsing are a strong support system, planning, and knowledge of the signs of relapse. Remaining drug free can be a struggle, but you don’t have to work through everything on your own. You can rely on friends and family for support, as well as a medical professional or facility. However,

5 Amazing Recovery Foods

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Eating well, exercising and practicing mindfulness are all important aspects of maintaining a recovery plan which works to build strength and endurance for the long haul. Addiction to drugs and alcohol can negatively impact the body’s ability to process nutrients properly. However, eating healthy is essential for vitality and energy to maintain sobriety. For anyone

The Dangers of Overdosing on Crystal Meth

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You can overdose on crystal meth in either of two ways. First, you can experience an acute overdose in which you ingest such a large quantity or concentration of methamphetamine that your metabolism is overwhelmed by the drug; and second, you can experience a chronic meth overdose after a long period of regular methamphetamine ingestion

Things to Share With Other Addicts in Your Recovery Meetings

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Sharing your alcoholism and addiction stories and participating in the sharing sessions at recovery meetings are important components of addiction recovery. Individuals will be naturally concerned over the amount of information that they should share and the confidentiality of the information, and they may be reluctant to participate fully in sharing sessions. Initially, the confidentiality

Signs That Your Son is Using Cocaine

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Maybe you have noticed something unusual in your son’s behavior or you have found unusual items in his room or among his possessions. Your observations have led you to  become concerned that he is using cocaine, but when you confront him directly he denies any and all drug use. Your parental instincts tell you that