It isn’t always easy to know when recreational enjoyment of alcohol transforms from a harmless social activity into something more disruptive to your daily life. We all seek ways to cope with triggers that induce stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health and mood disorders. But during difficult times, comforts that we rely on to…
Already the most commonly used drug in the US, marijuana conjures a myriad of images in popular culture, ranging from flower children holding hands to couch potatoes watching television until 4 a.m. Whatever its truth is for the individual, it is here to stay and each person needs to understand how marijuana affects their brain…
So many people suffer from anxiety in the modern world that it’s almost more surprising to hear when someone is not anxious about an upcoming event or relationship or conflict in his or her life than to hear a long list of anxiety-related feelings. Although anxiety is a widespread condition, it’s not always crippling. Many…
A substance induced mood disorder affects a person’s physical, spiritual, and emotional wellbeing. However, identifying the exact causes can be difficult. Many people live with the symptoms of severe mental health disorders, but are unable or unwilling to seek help. Some think that they can just get over these symptoms, or cannot see how their…
Comorbidity describes when a person suffers from two chronic illnesses at the same time. A common incidence is when an individual is dealing with a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder at the same time. This is a dangerous cycle, no matter the severity or substance. Getting professional addiction and mental health treatment…
With the abundance of treatment options and mental health professionals, each promising different approaches and better results, finding the right care for you or a loved one can be an added stressor in an already challenging situation. One of the first, and biggest, decisions you’ll need to make as you begin your addiction treatment search…
Benzodiazepines, also known as “benzos” are among the most commonly prescribed drugs in America. The benzodiazepine family of anti-anxiety medication helps millions of men and women suffering. This can include everything from anxiety, to seizures, to insomnia. The family includes familiar brand names like Ativan, Xanax, Valium, and Klonopin. But as the number of benzodiazepine…
In the movies, the character with a drinking problem is easy to spot: sullen, unemployed, and estranged, typically found drinking alone or picking fights. Outside of Hollywood fiction, however, those with a drinking problem often look like our neighbors, co-workers, loved ones, and friends. They may be highly respected in their careers, beloved by their families,…