Alcohol use disorder (AUD) and food addiction are complex conditions that share many similarities in brain function, behavior, and emotional regulation. Although food addiction is not currently recognized as an official diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), research suggests that some highly processed foods rich in sugar, refined carbohydrates, fat, … Read more
The illicit drug supply continues to evolve, creating new dangers for individuals with opioid use disorder and for the healthcare professionals who treat them. One emerging concern is the presence of medetomidine, a potent veterinary sedative, mixed with illegally manufactured fentanyl. Like xylazine, medetomidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that is not approved for human … Read more
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder (SUD) are closely connected conditions that often occur together and can have profound effects on a person’s physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. PTSD develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as military combat, childhood abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, serious … Read more
Trauma and addiction are closely connected, with many individuals using alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with the emotional pain caused by adverse life experiences. Trauma may result from childhood abuse or neglect, domestic violence, sexual assault, military combat, serious accidents, natural disasters, community violence, or the loss of a loved one. These … Read more
Suicide is a major public health concern that affects individuals, families, and communities across the world. While immediate crisis intervention is essential, long-term recovery often requires practical skills, ongoing support, and meaningful connections with others. Project Life Force (PLF) is an evidence-based, group-based suicide prevention program that builds upon the use of individualized suicide safety … Read more
Mental health conditions and substance use disorders are among the most common and treatable health conditions, yet millions of individuals do not receive the care they need because of numerous barriers to treatment. These obstacles may include stigma, financial hardship, limited access to qualified healthcare providers, transportation difficulties, childcare responsibilities, insurance restrictions, cultural differences, and … Read more
Addiction recovery facilities for mothers with children provide a unique, family-centered approach to treating substance use disorders by addressing the needs of both the mother and her children. Many women delay or avoid seeking treatment because they fear being separated from their children, losing custody, or being unable to meet their parenting responsibilities while receiving … Read more
The Relief-Loop Repatterning (RLR) model is an emerging clinical framework that offers a compassionate perspective on addiction by focusing on the repeated cycle of seeking relief from emotional or physical distress. Rather than viewing substance use solely as a harmful behavior, the model encourages healthcare professionals and individuals in recovery to explore the underlying needs … Read more
Recovery from addiction is a unique and deeply personal journey that cannot be measured by a single timeline or treatment approach. Every individual enters recovery with different life experiences, health conditions, family dynamics, emotional challenges, and personal goals. Factors such as the type of substance used, the duration of addiction, co-occurring mental health conditions, available … Read more
Methadone is a well-established, evidence-based medication for treating opioid use disorder (OUD), helping reduce opioid cravings, relieve withdrawal symptoms, and lower the risk of overdose and death. In the United States, however, methadone for OUD is generally dispensed through federally certified Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs), which can limit access for individuals living in rural areas … Read more