Naltrexone versus Ozempic

Naltrexone and Ozempic take different approaches to treating alcohol use disorder (AUD). Naltrexone is FDA-approved, affordable, and well-studied; Ozempic is promising but off-label, costly, and less researched. Ethical concerns include access, safety, and informed consent. Both have side effects, and choosing between them reflects the trade-off between innovation and proven care. Naltrexone vs. Ozempic: Comparing … Read more

Evolution of Alcohol Treatment

Alcohol treatment in the U.S. has evolved from institutional care to personalized approaches like therapy, medication, and digital tools. While offering more options, these come with challenges such as high costs, access gaps, and ethical concerns. The best treatment depends on individual readiness, health, values, and support for a truly effective recovery. From Asylums to … Read more

Dry Drunk and Alcoholism

A dry drunk is someone who has stopped drinking but still displays the negative behaviors and mindset of active addiction, such as anger, denial, and emotional immaturity. In contrast, a functional alcoholic continues to drink while appearing to manage daily responsibilities, often hiding their dependence. While functional alcoholics need help stopping alcohol use through detox, … Read more

Addiction Denial

People with addiction remain in denial, often unaware of the severity of their condition due to both psychological defenses and brain changes that affect judgment and self-awareness. This denial can lead to blaming others and resisting help. Breaking through it requires self-management, supportive family involvement, and access to community resources like support groups and outreach … Read more

A Functioning Alcoholic

Functioning alcoholism masks the struggle with excessive drinking. Signs include hangovers, mood swings, secrecy, and denial. Identifying it requires recognizing performance declines and emotional instability. Prevention and recovery rely on self-management, family support, and community resources like counseling and support groups. Early intervention is crucial for long-term health. The Hidden Struggle of a Functioning Alcoholic … Read more

Youth Addiction and Brain Changes

Addiction disrupts brain development, affecting memory, decision-making, and impulse control. It also causes withdrawal and mood swings. Prevention involves government policies, self-management, family support, and community resources, helping youths build resilience and make healthy choices. How Teen Addiction Disrupts Brain Development Adolescence is a crucial period for brain development, with key regions still maturing well … Read more

Science-Based Addiction Therapy

Science-based addiction treatment uses medical, psychological, and behavioral approaches like MAT and CBT to support recovery. While effective, it raises ethical concerns about autonomy, privacy, and access, alongside challenges like high costs and medication dependence. Success also relies on self-management, family support, and community resources to promote long-term sobriety. The Science Behind Effective Addiction Treatment … Read more

Teen Screening for Addiction

Screening teens for addiction and mental health enables early intervention and prevention. It helps detect behavioral, emotional, and physical warning signs before they escalate. Self-management strategies, like stress management, along with family support and community resources, provide crucial guidance and care. A combined approach ensures better mental health and addiction prevention for teens. The Importance … Read more

Weight-Loss drugs for Alcoholism

Weight loss medications, while designed for obesity, are being explored for managing alcoholism, particularly for individuals facing both alcohol use disorder and weight issues. These medications may help reduce cravings and improve impulse control, but their use raises ethical concerns, such as dependency and misuse. Effective treatment requires more than medication, with self-management strategies, family … Read more

Withdrawal From Alcohol Safely

Alcohol withdrawal impacts both body and mind. This guide offers tips for safely managing the challenges of cutting back or quitting alcohol. Many people decide to withdraw from alcohol for various reasons, from health concerns to personal goals. However, the process is not as simple as just stopping drinking overnight. It requires careful planning, support, … Read more