Smokers could be considered the forgotten addicts. Government and law enforcement crack down on illicit street drugs. Most rehab centers focus on treating the “hard” drugs, such as opiates, amphetamines and alcohol. Yet tobacco — which remains freely available and, for the most part, socially and legally acceptable — causes major health problems, ultimately killing […]
Tobacco Addiction: The Major (Forgotten) Killer Read More »
To be truly effective, addiction recovery cannot focus solely on the physical effects of substance abuse. Addiction also damages people on emotional and spiritual levels. A holistic approach to alcohol and drug addiction recovery provides for the mind, body, and spirit as a whole. At The Ranch PA, we understand everyone has different experiences and
Alternative Healing and Addiction Recovery Read More »
Combining alcohol with other substances increases the risk of serious health conditions and side effects. Alcohol intensifies the effects of many drugs, including street drugs and prescription medication. Seemingly harmless over-the-counter drugs and herbal treatments can also cause problems when taken with alcohol. Effects of Alcohol on Men and Women Alcohol affects women faster than
Alcohol and other Drugs: A Dangerous Mix Read More »
Every year thousands of people successfully combat addiction. In the months and years following treatment, some of these people relapse, returning to substance abuse. The word “relapse” means “to fall again,” and it’s a possibility all recovering addicts face. In November of 2012, police laid DUI charges against an addiction counselor from Torrance, California. Tragically,
Understanding Relapse Read More »
Holidays are stressful times for people living with addiction disorders. Social pressure to drink at parties increases, celebrations interfere with daily routines and stress levels rise. Family members can help loved ones avoid alcohol or drug use and still enjoy the holidays. Preventing HALT HALT stands for Hungry, Angry, Lonely and Tired, all of which
Holidays, Families and Addiction Support Read More »
In November, Jon Bon Jovi’s 19-year-old daughter, Stephanie Bongiovi, was rushed to hospital after a heroin overdose. She was charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and marijuana possession. Though Bongiovi’s has left the hospital in better health, her overdose serves as a grim reminder that heroin use in on the
Heroin: Why More Young People are Using this Devastating Drug Read More »
Addicts often feel a great deal of shame about their addiction. It’s easy to see where this notion stems from. Myths about addiction contribute to the widespread belief that addicts are bad people. Popular opinion, television shows and media stories create the impression that addicts are selfish, weak and lacking self-control. The idea may also
Addicts Aren’t “Bad People” Read More »
Substance abuse provides a motivation for many crimes, from petty theft to physical assault. Traditionally, law courts focus on the crime, not the underlying cause. As a result, many addicts find themselves caught in a repeating cycle of arrest, imprisonment and release. The cycle costs the legal system millions every year. More importantly, people suffering
Drug Courts Recognize Addiction as Disease, Not Crime Read More »
