When OxyContin is Abused it’s not Medicine Anymore

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OxyContin is an opioid pain medication, or narcotic, which is used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is meant to be used as an around-the-clock treatment of pain rather than on an as-needed basis. When used properly, the medication can relieve pain for up to 12 hours, but when used in excess it can

When You Develop a Dependence on Crack Cocaine

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Crack cocaine abuse has become a worldwide problem, and over 8.5 million people have admitted to using the drug at least once during their lives. The reason crack abuse is so problematic is because if its dependence liabilities and its ability to cause cardiovascular, neurological, psychiatric, and respiratory problems. We’ll explore how crack cocaine dependence

Healing the Wounds of Addiction in the Family

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Addiction causes so much more pain than many people realize, as it affects not only the addict but everyone they’re directly involved with, including family and friends. Growing up with parents who struggle with addiction can cause major damage in children, especially when left untreated. Emotional pain can wreak havoc on our lives, and it

How long does a meth high last?

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Methamphetamine is a synthetic chemical commonly manufactured in illegal, hidden laboratories, mixing various forms of amphetamine or derivatives with other chemicals to boost its potency. It is incredibly strong and stimulates the portion of the brain which is responsible for pleasure. We’ll explore how the drug affects the body and how long those effects last,

How Heroin gets you High

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Heroin is an illegal, highly addictive drug processed from morphine, a naturally occurring substance extracted from the seed pod of certain varieties of the opium poppy plant. It is known to create an intense sense of euphoria and well-being.   It is typically sold as a white or brownish powder that is “cut” with sugars,

Developing a Tolerance to Cocaine

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One of the most addictive and powerful drugs of abuse, a considerable amount of tolerance can build even after a single use. It can also be addictive during the first time using, due to the intense, euphoric high caused by the drug. There are symptoms to look out for when determining whether one has built

Maintaining Sobriety During Alcoholism Recovery

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Many people may ask if sobriety is so easy why failure happens. Relapse rates may be high, with some returning to addiction within a few weeks of recovery. Sobriety is a difficult road which is a daily battle. There is no quick fix or easy answer with individual personalities, situations and determination some of the

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