When you or a loved one is dealing with substance use disorder, successfully managing work, school, relationships, and other responsibilities while using substances or drinking can make you feel like there is no problem. Contrary to common depictions of those struggling with addiction which can show them hurting their careers and families. This has led to the myth of a “high functioning addict” who is dependent on substances but otherwise unimpacted. While a person who is able to maintain these areas of their lives may not feel like they are struggling, any reliance on alcohol or other substances can be…
read moreComorbidity occurs when a person suffers from two illnesses at the same time. They can be both chronic illnesses that affect your physical health, a mental health issue and a physical health issue, or two or more mental health conditions that impact you simultaneously. One of the most common comorbidity combinations in mental health is a mood disorder, like depression or bipolar disorder, combined with a substance abuse problem. These form a complex pairing in which both will continue to exacerbate the effects of the other, creating a cycle of depression and dependence that can be extremely difficult to break…
read moreWith many substance addictions, the temptation to continue using even after you have given up regular use and are in recovery can continue long past the time when you have given up regular use and are in recovery. These cravings for alcohol, opioids, and other substances can be extreme, but giving in to a craving could potentially set you back months in your recovery process. Knowing that it is alright to expect cravings and what to do when you feel one can help you achieve another victory over your addiction and continue to stay in control of your cravings. Coping…
read moreSleep is essential for good health, both mental and physical. This does not mean naps or a few hours of sleep each night, but a full 7 to 9 hours of sleep that includes periods of deep sleep. This helps your mind process events, deal with challenges and stresses in your waking hours, and let your cells and organs continue to work efficiently. Alcohol is a significant obstacle when it comes to sleep, however. Although it can often make you feel tired, drinking actually interrupts your sleep, which is a large part of the reason that alcohol abuse can often…
read moreBenzodiazepines, often shortened to benzos, are an extremely beneficial drug to treat different anxiety disorders like panic disorder or social anxiety. They are highly effective in providing intermediate relief when someone is experiencing a panic attack or intense anxiety by increasing dopamine levels in the brain and making the body feel more relaxed, similar to the way alcohol relaxes. But like opioids and other prescription medication, misuse of benzodiazepines can lead to addiction. This is why it is important to work with your psychiatrist when taking medication for anxiety and be aware of any signs that could indicate that you…
read moreIf you have alcohol use disorder and are looking to get control back over your life, you will need to be aware of the withdrawal process. It is important to know that this process can be a difficult one and there are often challenges along the way. Setbacks are normal as you change behavior that both your mind and body have formed a dependency on. But you can increase your chances of a successful withdrawal and recovery by collecting the right resources and adopting a particular mindset before you begin the process of giving up alcohol. Getting the Right Resources…
read moreWhen you have a family member, significant other, or a friend who is experiencing addiction to prescription drugs, alcohol, or illicit substances, it can be a significant stress for your relationship. You want what is best for them, but they can often seem incapable of doing what is best for themselves. Meanwhile, your efforts to help them may only put further strain on the relationship. Important Facts to Understand About Addiction When someone you love is struggling with addiction, one of the most important things you can do, but also one of the hardest, is to stay compassionate and not…
read moreThe incorrect usage of drugs is a leading concern in Dallas and elsewhere. As a result, you may frequently hear the terms misuse, abuse, and addiction in the conversation surrounding the drug epidemic. But these words are not exactly interchangeable and each describes a particular set of challenges. While all of these can require help and intervention, they also often require a separate approach depending on what a patient is actually experiencing. Here is how each of these drug usage concerns is differentiated and what the solutions are for each use. Specific Drug Problems Based on Usage Type Drugs, including…
read moreDrinking alcohol is a regular occurrence for many adults. In fact, studies show that more than half the adults in the US have had an alcoholic beverage in the last month and almost 90% have had one at some point in their lives. With drinking so prevalent, it can be difficult to tell when drinking alcohol moves past the stage of casual enjoyment and into the realm of alcohol abuse, or alcoholism. Because alcoholism is a serious problem – one that can impact your ability to perform at work, be present in relationships, and keep yourself and others safe –…
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