The Opiate Addiction Crisis

The Opiate Addiction Crisis

Since 1999, the rate of overdose deaths involving heroin and prescription opioid pain relievers such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine, fentanyl and others, has practically quadrupled. Many believe the opiate addiction crisis can be linked to the medical...
Drug Misuse Versus Drug Abuse

Drug Misuse Versus Drug Abuse

The words misuse and abuse are thought to be interchangeable; however, drug misuse and drug abuse are not the same thing. Prescription medication is designed and intended to help with a variety of medical needs. However, misuse and abuse of prescription medication is...
What Are Behavioral Addictions?

What Are Behavioral Addictions?

Most people understand that we can become addicted to substances like alcohol or drugs. But they may not realize that we can also become addicted to behaviors. Physical dependence is the cornerstone to the compulsive use of drugs and alcohol. However, behavioral...
Rise of Synthetic Drugs

Rise of Synthetic Drugs

Illicit drugs that come from natural sources are extremely dangerous, and now a new danger is on the rise: synthetic drugs. Synthetic drugs contain chemical substances artificially manufactured to mimic the effects of drugs like cannabis, cocaine, and heroin. Spice...
Heavy Drinking versus Alcoholism

Heavy Drinking versus Alcoholism

There is a fine line between heavy drinking and alcoholism. Many people tiptoe that line and struggle with trying to determine whether they might have developed an addiction. Addiction is a disease: someone who has become addicted to a substance like alcohol has lost...