Opioid Addiction and Treatment Options
It’s unfortunately common to read or hear about heroin related overdoses in the news. Some of us may even have a friend or loved one who has struggled or is currently struggling with opioid addiction. It’s understandable, then, that heroin is often the first thing that comes to mind when hearing terms like “opioid abuse” or “the opioid epidemic.” However, illicit drug use is only one part of opioid addiction and the current opioid crisis afflicting the U.S. Sadly, opioid abuse often begins with prescription painkillers. Common opioid drugs While heroin was responsible for about 15,400 overdose deaths in 2017, [...]
PTSD: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Post-traumatic stress disorder, commonly known as PTSD, is a type of anxiety disorder that is triggered by a traumatic event. It is commonly associated with veterans, but anyone can develop this condition. Here are the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for PTSD. What Causes PTSD? People develop post-traumatic stress disorder in response to a life-threatening, traumatic event. It could be an event that happened to them or an event they witnessed or heard about. PTSD can be caused by: Physical abuse Rape or sexual assault Violent crimes Fire Natural disaster Car accident Plane crash Exposure to war and/or military combat [...]
Different Types of Depression
Depression is a mental health disorder that affects an individual’s mood and energy levels. It often interferes with everyday tasks and normal functioning. If left untreated, it can even lead to death by suicide. Depressive disorders are a complex area of mental health. Researchers are still trying to figure out what causes depression, but there are many different risk factors that have been identified, including genetics, a history of trauma, and substance abuse. Do you suspect you or a loved one has depression? Are you unsure what type you have? Here is an overview of the different kinds of depression. [...]
Drug Addiction: What You Need to Know
Despite the fact that the U.S. Surgeon General released a report in 2016 that stated 21 million Americans are struggling with addiction, stigma still remains. This often makes people reluctant to get the help they need. In order to encourage you to get help for yourself or a loved one, there are important facts about drug addiction, clinically known as substance use disorder, to take into consideration. 1. Addiction is a disease One of the biggest misconceptions about addiction is that it is a choice. In reality, addiction is a disease. People living with this condition do not choose to [...]
What Is Alcoholism?
The terms 'alcoholism' and 'alcoholic' are often used to describe anyone who drinks heavily. The proper term for this condition is alcohol use disorder, and it refers to a serious disease. Learn more about the condition commonly known as alcoholism and how it affects an individual’s health and wellbeing. Alcoholism Symptoms There are varying degrees of alcohol use. Some people drink heavily but do not become physically dependent on alcohol. Others may have just a few drinks and become addicted. Alcoholism is the most serious form of use. Alcohol use disorder is classified as a mental illness and is diagnosed [...]
Understanding the Different Types of Anxiety Disorders
There are two types of anxiety that people can experience: normal, healthy anxiety, and excessive worrying that takes over an individual’s life. The latter is considered an anxiety disorder. These are usually chronic conditions, but they can be effectively managed with treatment. If you’re concerned about yourself or a loved one, you’re not alone. About 18 percent of adults and 8% of adolescents in the United States have an anxiety disorder. Here is an overview of the different types of anxiety and their symptoms. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) People with generalized anxiety disorder worry excessively about a variety of common [...]
How the Use of Meth Affects the Body
Methamphetamine was once a highly taboo substance, partly due to the success of the “Faces of Meth” campaign. However, it is now becoming more regularly used by teens and young adults who see meth as a fun “party drug.” It is important to understand what methamphetamine is and how dangerous this substance can be. Forms of meth Meth typically takes the form of a white crystalline powder and is ingested through snorting, smoking or shooting it. The drug is known by several slang names, including: Crystal; Ice; Glass; Crank; Chalk. Methamphetamine is a highly addictive, illicit drug developed from its [...]
What to Expect During The Mental Health Assessment Process
If your doctor or health professional has recommended a mental health assessment, there's no need to worry—the process is straightforward and painless. Mental health issues are more common than you might think; research suggests that nearly one in five adults in the United States deals with some form of mental health disorder each year.1 A mental health assessment is an important diagnostic tool that can help you get the treatment you need. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the main elements of the mental health assessment process. What Is the Purpose of a Mental Health Assessment? A [...]
