Knowledge about substance use disorder and its treatments is always advancing. Choosing a rehabilitation program that adheres to the latest and most effective treatment practices can lead to improved outcomes for people struggling with addiction and the people who love them. As part of its Evidence-Based Resource Guide Series, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health…
The return of a loved one after time in a residential treatment program is a joyous occasion. But it’s not without its share of uncertainty, too—including how the readjustment process will go for both of you. Knowing what to expect can be helpful when it comes to navigating this happy but often also challenging time….
No one wants to think that a family member or close friend is suffering from a substance use disorder. However, this is very much the reality for millions of Americans. And the sooner the problem is brought into the light, the sooner your loved one can start on the path toward recovery. Which begs the…
Approximately 10 percent of Americans have had a substance use disorder (SUD) at some point in their lives, according to a study funded by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). That means that one out of every 10 people you know has suffered with—or is currently suffering with—this struggle. Unfortunately, 75 percent…
In recent years, knowledge about the relationship between substance use and mental disorders has continued to grow. According to the epidemiologic Catchment Area (ECA) study, the prevalence of a psychiatric disorder is 44 percent among people with alcohol disorders, and skyrockets to 64.4 percent among people with other drug-use disorders. Furthermore, research shows that the…
Addiction is a terrible condition that can take over your life. The decision to take control and work toward sobriety is a monumental one, as is the journey that follows. When we talk about substance use treatment, we usually talk about finding the right rehab program, medication assisted treatment options, and a strong support system….
Social distancing is considered to be one of the best defenses against the spread of COVID-19. However, the isolation it leads to is not without consequences of its own. While all people are impacted by pandemic-related social distancing requirements, experts say that people with substance use disorders (SUDs) and those who are homeless face unique…
When COVID-19 first reached pandemic proportions earlier this year, Dr. Nora Volkow, the director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) warned that people with substance use disorders (SUDs) could be hit particularly hard by the virus. Now, research published in the academic journal, Molecular Psychiatry, confirms Dr. Volkow’s prediction to be true. While…
Prescription opioid and heroin misuse affects millions of Americans every year. Unfortunately, the prevalence of opioid use and misuse is on the rise. You may have heard the words “dependence” and “addiction” to describe this growing public health problem. While these terms are related, they are not interchangeable. Here’s a closer look at the difference…
The teen years are often thought of as a time for experimentation. Unfortunately, this can be a damaging perspective when it comes to experimentation and drug use. Why? Because what many people assume is a passing phase can easily turn into drug abuse and addiction. Vaping, in particular, represents a new threat to the health…