The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) classifies substance use disorders as a type of mental health disorder. Over time, a substance use disorder (SUD) can impact all mental, physical, social, and emotional health levels. What is Substance Abuse? According to the DSM, a substance use disorder is when someone has a problematic pattern of use that impairs their daily life. They may also experience distress because of their alcohol or drug use. Unfortunately, mental health and substance… Continue Reading
Types of Substance Abuse and Strategies to Overcome Addiction
Many of us use substances to relax, unwind, and enjoy ourselves. Though there are also those who use them for other reasons, including escaping the stresses of life, masking emotional pain, or eliminating chronic anxiety. But the comfort provided by drugs, alcohol, or other substances is often nothing more than a band-aid for deeper mental health disorders that need more hands-on treatment. After the effects of a substance wears off, the returning pain, anxiety, or stress can be overwhelming. The… Continue Reading
Connection Between Mental Health Disorders and Chemical Dependency
When someone receives a dual diagnosis, it usually means they will require treatment for a mental health condition and for substance abuse. These disorders are frequently associated with each other and increase the damaging effects on a person’s well-being. Another name for this connection is a co-occurring disorder that combines the effects of having two major diseases. About 50% of people who suffer from mental health disorders are also affected by substance abuse. While these two are closely linked, drugs… Continue Reading
Chemical Dependency Vs. Addiction: What’s the Difference?
When comparing chemical dependency and addiction, many people may believe they are the same thing. While they do share some similarities in causes and symptoms, there are some contrasts between these two mental health conditions. Learn about the differences between chemical dependency and addiction so you can help yourself or a loved one overcome either of these challenges. What is Chemical Dependency? Among the biggest mental health conditions in the United States, chemical dependency is defined by people who physically… Continue Reading
Substance Abuse in Adolescents & How to Help Your Teen
The rising rate of substance abuse in adolescents is becoming a bigger concern than ever for parents with teenagers. As these problems continue to grow, it is vital that parents are prepared to provide the support their children need. Get all the most important information about substance abuse in teens, why teens turn to these habits, and ways to help them get past it. Why Teens Struggle with Substance Abuse There are many reasons why a teen may turn to… Continue Reading
The Risk Factors, Effects on the Brain, and Signs of Substance Abuse
Every year, millions of people struggle with substance abuse from alcohol, drugs, and other substances. These disorders can have long-lasting effects on a person’s physical and emotional state. If you or someone you love has developed a substance use disorder, you’ll want to learn more about what this means, risk factors that could lead to it, and how to help. What is substance abuse? Substance abuse is a pattern of someone excessively consuming alcohol, drugs, or prescriptions. It becomes a… Continue Reading
Chemical Dependency: When to Get Help
As time goes on, more people are struggling with chemical dependency and other mental health concerns. Major impacts such as the global pandemic have affected individuals in numerous ways, which has led many of them to turn to alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism. To ensure these problems don’t continue, it is vital that everyone is educated on factors of substance abuse, what it is, and the easiest ways to determine if someone has a problem. From there, the… Continue Reading
Doing Your Part for National Recovery Month
This September is National Recovery Month’s 31st year. During National Recovery Month, people share the central message that individuals who suffer from mental health conditions can achieve lasting recovery. One can achieve mental health recovery by receiving evidence-based treatment. A person’s mental health challenges do not have to control a person’s life, and one does not have to live with a mental health condition forever. Below, we detail the origins of National Recovery Month. We then share ways to participate in… Continue Reading
Opiate Addiction: Side Effects and Treatment Options
Opiates come in a variety of types and with a variety of demons associated with abuse. If you suspect a loved one is suffering from opiate abuse, we recommend becoming informed on the treatment options available to them. How Opiate Addiction Destroys Families and Lives Addicts don’t wake up one day and decide to get themselves hooked on a substance that could potentially destroy every good thing they’ve ever had in their lives. For some, the addiction happens by accident,… Continue Reading
How to Help Someone Struggling with Addiction
Merriam-Webster dictionary defines an addiction as “a strong and harmful need to regularly have something (such as a drug) or do something (such as gamble).” Watching a friend or loved one struggle with their need to take something you know is detrimental to their life is painful. You love them. And you want to do anything you can to help them. Though our desire to help comes from a place of caring and concern, sometimes it can actually hinder the… Continue Reading