Ativan is a prescription medication frequently given to patients to induce a calming or tranquilizing effect. Classified in a category of drugs known as benzodiazepines, it can be addictive if not properly monitored. If you or a loved one has Ativan dependency, you’ll likely need professional treatment to reduce the impact of withdrawal symptoms. Facts...
Medical services around the world felt extreme pressure dealing with the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. Unfortunately, that meant a lot of other severe health issues mounted in its wake, including drug addiction and overdoses. Alarming Data on Lives Lost Early in 2021, PBS Newshour reported that “more Americans died from drug overdose in a 12-month...
A troubling rise in senior citizens with addiction has occurred in the past decade, and loneliness is one primary reason. If you’re concerned about your health or that of a loved one, here’s what to know and how to get help. A Changing World: Why Seniors Are More Lonely Let’s start with an obvious recent...
When you feel in your heart that a teenager you love is struggling with drug or alcohol use, it’s difficult to know where to turn, much less how to solve the problem. Here are some suggestions to help you create a plan to seek professional treatment. What’s Happening in the Adolescent Brain Emotions run high...
While antidepressants aren’t categorized as addictive substances, you should still be cautious about stopping or switching medication. Here are some points to remember when discussing a change with your healthcare provider. Why Most People Take Antidepressants The majority of individuals prescribed antidepressants have some form of clinical depression, often the result of a combination of...
High-Functioning Addiction One of the greatest challenges is recognizing when you or someone you love has a substance problem—especially when they seem to handle daily life just fine. Unfortunately, some people can be what medical professionals deem “high-functioning” but still struggle with drug or alcohol addiction. Misconceptions Hide True Problems There are many preconceived notions...
Prescription sleep aids aren’t supposed to be addictive, but when people have problems with chronic insomnia, they often use these drugs in ways that differ from doctors’ recommendations. They might also use them to get high. A commonly misused sleep medication is Ambien. If someone becomes reliant on Ambien, they’ll likely need professional treatment to...
Once considered a novel pastime called “audio blogging,” podcasts are now a popular form of entertainment, news, and inspiration. At this writing, there are more than one million podcasts, and approximately 68 million people in the U.S. listen to a podcast every week. What’s the Appeal? Podcasts are easily accessible and transportable. Many people appreciate...
Here’s a fast fact: exercise and substance use both activate the release of dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin. So if you’re considering new sober living choices, the natural “runner’s high” you get from regular movement is one of your best tools for long-lasting recovery. Exercise: Good for Body and Mind How can something so simple have...
While many people eagerly anticipate the togetherness and good cheer of the holiday season, it’s important to understand that not everyone feels joyful and bright this time of year. If you or a loved one has trouble with substance abuse and think substances are the only option to make it through the next few weeks,...
