Substance misuse is one form of addiction. However, many other addictive behaviors can interfere with an individual’s treatment and recovery. The side effects of substance use disorder (SUD) often include physiological changes that impact the reward centers of the brain. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), substance misuse “amplifies or disrupts the […]
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Q&A on Interventions
People struggling with addiction frequently notice negative consequences of their substance use or other addictive habits, but their addiction will not allow them to stop using on their own. Whether it involves the use of substances like alcohol and drugs or other destructive behaviors, addiction is a complicated disease that changes brain function and behavior. […]
How to Recognize Addiction in a Loved One
Recognizing addiction in a loved one can be painful. Often we do not want to acknowledge the warning signs. Regardless, addiction is a serious condition that needs to be taken seriously, or it will continue to get worse. In the book Addicted?: Recognizing Destructive Behaviors Before It’s Too Late, author Marilyn Freimuth discusses addiction in […]
How Do I Know if My Loved One Is Right for an Intervention?
When a loved one is struggling with substance abuse or mental health problems, it can be challenging to see the big picture and know the best way to help them. If you haven’t confronted them yet, you may be waiting and unsure how to approach them, not wanting to make things worse. If you have […]
The Importance of Self-Care While Your Loved One Is in Treatment
It can be difficult to see your own self-destructive traits or negative behaviors. It is usually easier to point out others’ problems and provide your loved ones with advice you do not take yourself. To be an effective support system for a loved one in recovery, you need to practice self-care and support their recovery […]
Why People Fear Getting Professional Help
Individuals who get professional treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) and related mental health conditions have better life outcomes. Unfortunately, many people are scared of change or uncertain about the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs, and these feelings can make them hesitate to get the help they need. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health […]
The Effects of Drugs and Alcohol on the Brain and Body
Any amount of substance misuse can affect the brain and body. Long-term side effects and symptoms can develop after even a single instance of misusing certain substances, and chronic misuse puts people at an even greater risk of negative health outcomes. Adults who misuse certain substances, including marijuana, are at a higher risk of developing […]
Recognizing That Your Teenager Is Struggling With Depression
As a parent, you want to ensure your teenager has the support they need to grow into a healthy and happy adult. Sometimes it can be difficult to determine if changes in behavior are a natural part of transitioning into young adulthood or if they indicate a potential problem. Adolescents and young adults with untreated […]
How You May Be Indirectly Enabling Your Loved One’s Addiction
Individuals with substance use disorder (SUD), a disease more colloquially known as “addiction,” often have family members who unintentionally enable their behavior. If a family member struggles with substance misuse, your response to their behaviors will directly affect their disease. You might enable maladaptive behaviors without intending to cause harm or out of a misplaced […]
The Importance of Advocating for Family Recovery
Managing any disease without the support of family and friends can be a lonely road. Despite misconceptions, addiction is a brain disease and not a moral choice. Addiction can gradually take control of an individual’s instincts and brain function, damaging their ability to help themselves. This is why family support is crucial for recovery. In […]