About teenagers and college students additions
The Disease Model Theory of Addiction explains addiction as a chronic, relapsing medical condition that involves changes in brain structure, function, and behavior. Rather than viewing addiction as a failure of character or willpower, this model recognizes the role of genetics, brain chemistry, mental health, and environmental factors in driving substance use. Understanding addiction through … Read more
Addiction does not develop in isolation, nor does it affect all individuals equally. Research shows that people with genetic vulnerability, early exposure to substances, untreated mental health conditions, trauma histories, chronic stress, and limited social support are most susceptible to developing addiction. Identifying these risk factors early is critical for prevention and long-term health. Effective … Read more
Recovery success rates vary across different types of addiction, shaped by biological dependence, brain changes, social conditions, and access to treatment. Opioid use disorder is often identified as having one of the lowest long-term recovery success rates due to intense physical dependence, high relapse risk, and structural barriers such as stigma and limited access to … Read more
For decades, addiction was often addressed through “tough love,” an approach rooted in the belief that strict consequences, confrontation, and emotional withdrawal would force individuals to stop using substances. However, advances in neuroscience and behavioral health have shown that addiction is a complex medical and psychological condition involving changes in brain function, emotional regulation, and … Read more
Addiction-related gastrointestinal and liver disorders are serious but often preventable health consequences of substance misuse. Alcohol, drugs, and improperly used medications place continuous stress on the digestive system and overwhelm the liver’s ability to detoxify the body. Over time, this can lead to chronic stomach irritation, ulcers, constipation, hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and even life-threatening … Read more
Dextromethorphan (DXM) addiction is a growing concern due to easy access to over-the-counter cough medicines. Although safe at recommended doses, high-dose DXM can cause mind-altering effects, dependence, and health problems. Recovery requires more than stopping use and relies on self-management, family support, and community resources working together to restore stability and long-term well-being. Dextromethorphan Addiction: … Read more
Pregabalin addiction is an increasing concern as prescription medication misuse rises. Although effective for nerve pain, anxiety, and seizures, high doses can cause dependence, especially in those with a substance use history. Recovery requires more than tapering alone and depends on self-management, family support, and community resources working together to restore health and stability. Pregabalin … Read more
ADHD, bipolar disorder, and addiction form a powerful and often overwhelming combination of co-occurring conditions. ADHD affects attention, impulsivity, and self-regulation, while bipolar disorder brings cycles of depression and mania that destabilize mood and behavior. When addiction enters this picture, substance use can become a way to self-medicate distress, intensify impulsive actions, and disrupt brain … Read more
Cocaine-related deaths have increased at an alarming rate in recent years, creating a growing public health crisis. A major factor driving this rise is the unpredictable drug supply, particularly cocaine contaminated with synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. This contamination has led to unexpected overdoses, even among individuals who do not regularly use opioids. While medical … Read more
Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) has become one of the most effective interventions for reducing opioid-related deaths and supporting long-term recovery. Medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone stabilize brain chemistry, reduce cravings, and protect against fatal overdose. Research consistently shows that individuals who remain on MOUD for extended periods experience significantly higher survival … Read more