Functional addiction means an addict can maintain relationships with family, friends and coworkers while also struggling with substance abuse. A functional addiction is usually kept a secret, but, when the addict suffers a breakdown or hits rock bottom, the secret is usually discovered....
Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT, is a modified form of cognitive behavioral therapy, which is very effective for addiction treatment with most drugs, but particularly for those with a Dual Diagnosis – individuals struggling with both mental illness and drug abuse. Gaining an...
People who believe they can lead sober lives in recovery after one bout of treatment may have unrealistic expectations. Recovery is a lifelong commitment that requires close attention and dedication, and the high relapse rates associated with drug use argue that maintaining sobriety is an...
Addiction is a disease that affects every area of life, so rehab must address these same areas to improve recovery lifestyle and to reduce the likelihood of relapse. Components of Addiction Many people think addiction is nothing more than substance abuse; they see people abusing drugs and...
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports facts about the relationship between mental health disorders and addiction, including the following: Approximately 50% of individuals with severe mental disorders are affected by substance abuse. 37 percent of alcohol abusers and 53%...
Many people mistakenly believe that addiction is exclusively caused by reckless behavior, a lack of personal character, or cultural pressure. While these things certainly contribute to the epidemic of substance abuse and dependence plaguing the world right now, millions of people become...
Most people think of pills and powder when discussing addiction, but people also become addicted to behaviors. Process (or behavioral) addictions can include gambling, eating, playing video games, surfing the Internet, engaging in sexual activity and shopping, and the Asian Social Science...
Because the body and the mind become dependent on the feelings that drugs and alcohol produce, drug abuse is much more than just a bad habit; rather, it is a disease. Addiction is a chronic disorder characterized by compulsive drug use. Addicts can be genetically predisposed to the...
Alcohol use can lead to problem drinking. Problem drinking involves drinking too often, too much or for the wrong reasons, but it does not always imply addiction or alcoholism. Alcohol abuse is considered problem drinking but it does not involve physical dependence. Problem drinkers or...
Alcohol affects the central nervous system and causes the user to feel and think differently. However, the effects of alcohol abuse are more serious. Abusers become sedated and experience lowered inhibitions, slower reaction times, and sometimes breathing difficulties. Alcohol affects...
Prescription drug abuse is a major problem in American culture. The National Institute on Drug Abuse has reported that the US makes up only five percent of the world population, but its citizens consume 75 percent of the world’s prescription drugs. Sometimes, even recovering addicts may...
Autism is a disorder that can vary greatly in severity, but, when combined with a process addiction, it can make it almost impossible for someone to function at a normal level. If you or someone you know suffers from autism and a process addiction at the same time, then seek professional...