We all know the dangers associated with drinking alcohol: the damage to your liver, brain, heart, and many other parts of your body are no surprise. Some drinks, however, can take an even bigger toll on your body. In addition to the obvious health hazards associated with drinking, some cocktails are high in calories, alcohol…
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Communicating with the addict in your life always seems to end in an ugly argument. You are tired of listening to lies and excuses, and you’re weary of the blame game. You’ve established rules, yet the addict in your life constantly breaks them — and you feel powerless to change. Instead of giving up on…
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It’s true: Drugs can make you ugly. Yes, “ugly” is a subjective term, but if you’ve ever seen a before-and-after picture of someone who’s done meth for many years, you’ll likely find some objectivity there. Don’t get us wrong — we’re not out to offend anyone. We simply understand the power of addiction, and we…
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MDMA, more commonly known as ecstasy, X, or molly, is a synthetic, psychoactive drug chemically similar to methamphetamine. It produces an energizing effect, along with distortions in time, perception and enhanced enjoyment from tactile experiences. Used to promote euphoria, it is most commonly used by adolescents and young adults. It also creates feelings of closeness,…
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Marijuana, also known as “pot,” “weed,” or “cannabis,” is the most commonly abused drug in the United States. It is comprised of a dry, shredded green/brown mix of flowers, stems, seeds, and leaves of the plant Cannabis sativa. It is usually smoked as a cigarette (joint) or in a pipe (bong or bowl). It is…
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You worked hard to recover from substance abuse. You went through withdrawal, suffered cravings, and felt awkward and angry. Let’s face it: addiction recovery is a process that takes a lifetime to achieve. You’re working hard and are glad to be sober — but life would be a lot easier if the people you worked…
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As the parent of an individual with a substance abuse problem, you already know that addiction can cause your child to lie, cheat or steal — whatever it takes to get the next high. Reestablishing trust after months or even years of bad behavior is tremendously challenging. After all, you want to believe the best,…
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You worked hard to quit using, but now that you’re sober, you’re finding yourself feeling angry and resentful. You blame others for the problems in your life, and you believe things would be different if only this person or event hadn’t happened. The problem with resentment is that it lets you avoid dealing with your…
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Hallucinogens are dangerous, habit-forming substances that change the user’s perception of reality. There are three types of hallucinogens: deliriants, dissociatives, and psychedelics, and these drugs can put users into a trance, produce a dream-like “reality,” and even result in insanity. Drugs such as LSD, PCP, MDMA, mescaline, and ketamine are common hallucinogens, as are the…
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Supporting a partner as they travel the tough road through addiction and recovery is a challenge requiring patience, trust, love, and dedication. Your loved one is in a fragile emotional place after rehab. Cravings persist. Anxious and resentful feelings can build quickly. Unresolved anger simmers just below the surface. You know you have to learn…
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