Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder, affects millions of adults in the United States. Though we tend to lump people addicted to alcohol into a stereotype, there is no typical alcoholic. In fact, there are five subgroups of alcohol addiction that are recognized by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Regardless of what kind of alcoholism…
As the holiday season is upon us, how do people in recovery navigate the potential roadblocks and pitfalls that threaten their sobriety? Perhaps you have recently been discharged from alcohol addiction treatment or are still enrolled in an outpatient program as the holidays approach. In this case, some strategies will support you as you enjoy…
Oxycontin, generically known as oxycodone, was approved by the FDA for medical use in 1995. The drug manufacturers’ assurances that it was not particularly addictive meant physicians prescribed it readily for their patients. Many traced the current opioid epidemic to when doctors often wrote prescriptions for synthetic opioids for pain. Prescription medication treatment centers treat…
For 60 years, Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge (PAATC) has been providing evidence-based care to teens 18 and up and adults who struggle with addiction. Serving communities throughout Pennsylvania, several PAATC locations offer dynamic environments, compassionate care, and comprehensive therapeutic programs. If you live in or near Pennsylvania and are looking for professional treatment for…
Heroin addiction continues to be a challenge in the United States, with upwards of half a million people affected each year. Heroin addiction help is available in professional rehab centers in most states. The first thing that has to happen before anyone with a heroin addiction can start recovery is withdrawal. It is often best…
Someone who seeks serious pain management or wants to get high often turns to an opioid. These substances may include heroin, prescription pain medication, or morphine. Opioids impact the brain, impairing its ability to function and produce specific chemicals, quickly leading to cravings and dependence. The only way to return to its original functioning is…
Street-level crystal meth is one of the most devastating illegal drugs available on the black market. It takes a tremendous toll on both body and mind. Though some methamphetamines are used medically for certain disorders, the illicit version of this drug, manufactured illegally in unlawful meth labs, wreaks havoc among nearly 2 million Americans every…
The power and effectiveness of prayer in addiction recovery are being reaffirmed across the country in numerous recovery settings. In fact, almost three-quarters of rehab options in the US include faith-based addiction treatment programs. Whether part of a 12-step program or used in a residential addiction recovery center, prayer can play an influential role in…
Although a drug habit begins due to behaviors triggered by life experience, addiction is not a habit. It is an illness of the brain that is chronic and incurable. However, with proper treatment, it is possible to manage your addiction. The cycle of addiction is a function of numerous elements that play out in a…
People who suffer from substance misuse, dependence, and addiction fall on an addiction severity continuum. Where someone falls on that continuum will not change the fact that they will need an addiction treatment center program. However, it may affect decisions about what kind of treatment will be best. Professional counselors can administer the addiction severity…