If you’re struggling with alcoholism, addiction, or a substance abuse disorder, you’re far from alone. 23 million Americans meet the criteria for a substance use disorder annually, making addiction a common problem. Addiction is a cunning and baffling disease because it doesn’t discriminate, meaning anyone who uses a psychoactive substance can ultimately develop a substance…
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Equine therapy is known primarily for its success in helping people with physical and mental disabilities. But new programs are demonstrating that equine-assisted forms of therapy can also strengthen those recovering from trauma, mental illness, and addiction. The North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) has pioneered equine therapy efforts since 1969. As of…
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Recovery from addiction to alcohol and/or prescription or street drugs is a long process. It can be overwhelming to think about. Many addicts cringe just thinking about the initial withdrawal process and never follow through to get started on the road to recovery. For the ones who do—and perhaps you or one of your loved…
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He was angry – angry enough to share his story with a stranger, and angry enough to talk about the effects of alcohol on his life in a half-hour monologue. His ex-wife was alcoholic, and according to him, probably did drugs also. He kicked her out of the house, then divorced her, and became an…
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A new study shows that it takes at least one year for brain functions to improve in methamphetamine users. It supports the idea that brain function can recover after a year of abstinence from methamphetamine. These findings should help recovering abusers and their families understand that it can take an extended period of time for…
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Addiction is a dangerous and chronic disease that can damage your relationships, physical and mental health, and overall quality of life. All psychoactive substances, including prescription medications and legal substances, have the potential to cause addiction. Like other diseases, addiction becomes progressively worse over time. Unfortunately, addiction doesn’t have a specific known cause, although there…
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According to Mental Health America, depression affects more than 19 million Americans per year. Depression often co-exists with other conditions such as anxiety. Clearly, depression and anxiety are widespread problems in this country, and anyone who suffers from the conditions understands why. Persons suffering from depression and anxiety are often prescribed medications in conjunction with…
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Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) are both effective in treating both mental disorders and drug or alcohol addiction. These evidence-based methods include both individual and group therapy led by a licensed treatment specialist. However, there are some differences between CBT and DBT. Ultimately, Dialectical behavioral therapy is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy.…
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Stress is a major trigger for alcohol and drug abuse, especially among recovering addicts. Even non-dependent drinkers often look to alcohol as a way to “decompress” or “take the edge off,” which ends up leading to even more stress. So finding healthy, positive ways to relieve stress will decrease your chances for relapse as well…
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Sometimes we are not the best judge of our own behavior or condition. Such is the case when it comes to gauging our relationship with alcohol. Going on a weekend bender once or twice a year does not necessarily make you an alcoholic. Going on a bender every weekend and sipping a few throughout the…
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