Why do people continue to abuse drugs and alcohol despite the negative consequences? Why would a person continue to use something that can inherently harm them? One explanation is that addiction is a consequence of falling victim to decision failures. An addicted person simply overvalues pleasure and undervalues consequences. While [...]
Is there such a thing as an "Alcohol Gene?" How responsible are your genes for a predisposition to alcohol abuse? How responsible is your surrounding environment? Simply put, there is complex relationship between genetics and environmental factors that contribute to Alcohol Use Disorder. Genetics and heredity are very closely linked. [...]
The term “self-medication” has trivial and negative connotations. Many would use it as a joke about using alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism. However, “self-medication” has become a household term that detracts from the real emotional suffering that accompanies addiction. Although the theory behind self-medication (Self Medication Hypothesis) has [...]
Undiagnosed ADHD Causes Higher Risk A recent study found that more than 15 percent of adults with ADHD struggle with drug and alcohol abuse and/or addiction. Trouble usually starts around adolescence. Before age 15, those with ADHD are no more likely to experiment with drugs or alcohol. After age 15 [...]
Prolonged substance abuse can greatly increase the risk of delusional thinking. Drug or alcohol abuse can cause breaks from reality that can worsen over time. These delusions can cause dangerous behaviors and can lead to manipulation of others to obtain drugs. Studies have found that there is a link between [...]
A bar without alcohol might sound like an oxymoron. Like a bakery with no bread or a zoo with no animals. But the emerging trend of sober bars offers a place to socialize without booze. Sober bars are an alternative for those who want to enjoy the nightlife, but want [...]
How do you know if you have a drinking problem? What makes a person an alcoholic? Is there a difference between alcohol abuse and alcoholism? Is alcohol a drug? If you've considered any of these questions concerning your own drinking, you might have a problem. Alcohol abuse can range from [...]
Recently, the President’s Council of Economic Advisors (CEA) published a report on the underestimated cost of the opioid crisis in America. Curbing illicit drug trafficking, reducing over-prescription by doctors, and cracking down on drug distributors are all major focus points of the report. While these are all good intentions, there [...]
Adventure therapy is a form of psychotherapy that is proven to be highly effective. It’s goal is to build confidence and independence through physically and emotionally challenging exercises that include some risk. “Adventure” can sound a little intimidating, but therapy can range from extreme outdoor activities to relaxed nature outings. Adventure [...]
Getting treatment for drug or alcohol addiction should be your biggest focus. But you might fear that attending treatment will disrupt your life too much. You might think that you need to press pause on all your responsibilities until you have completed a program. The truth is, there are many options for recovery based [...]
