About alcoholism disease and treatments
Drug use can affect many parts of the body, but the impact on the respiratory system is one of the most concerning. Whether it’s tobacco, prescription drugs, or illegal substances, many types of medicines can cause breathing problems that range from mild irritation to life-threatening complications. I’m going to break down how different drugs affect … Read more
If you’re like most people, there’s probably something in your daily routine that gives you a little boost of energy or helps you focus. While these stimulants can be handy if you need a quick wake-up call or to get through a tough day at work, some actually have a track record of causing dependency. … Read more
Many people know that smoking, drinking alcohol, and using certain drugs can be hard on the body, but the long-term risks go much deeper than most realize. These substances don’t just cause short-term symptoms—they can create cellular damage that greatly increases the risk for several types of cancer. Over years of use, chemicals in tobacco, … Read more
When people talk about the effects of drugs and alcohol, the focus usually lands on the more familiar consequences—liver disease, withdrawal, or addiction itself. But one of the most critical and often overlooked areas is how these substances impact the brain and nervous system. The truth is, repeated or heavy use can disrupt the very … Read more
Heart damage from drug use is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most serious health effects of substance misuse. Many drugs—legal, illegal, and even common everyday substances—can quietly strain the heart, weaken blood vessels, and disrupt normal heart function. Early warning signs are easy to miss and often mistaken for stress or fatigue. Stimulants, … Read more
Losing custody of my kids because of drug use changed my life. It forced me to face the reality of addiction—not just how it affects me, but how deeply it impacts the people I love most. You can think you’re in control, but addiction can take over and leave consequences that cut deep. Sharing this … Read more
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping addiction therapy by improving relapse detection, personalizing treatment, and expanding access through apps and virtual tools. While it offers clear advantages, it also poses challenges such as privacy risks, over-reliance on technology, and reduced human connection, raising ethical concerns about autonomy, fairness, and accountability. Effective use requires self-management, in which … Read more
I used to think a stiff drink after work was something everyone deserved, a little ritual that helped me unwind and celebrate the end of the day. For years, I brushed aside warnings, dismissing them as worry or overreaction. It wasn’t until I found myself in a doctor’s office, staring at scans, blood panels, and … Read more
Shame can feel incredibly heavy and isolating, especially for anyone navigating addiction. It’s not just embarrassment—it’s that deep, lingering belief that something is wrong with you at your core. And unlike passing emotions, shame tends to stick, quietly influencing how you see yourself and the choices you make. For many people struggling with addiction, shame … Read more
Emotional suppression can quietly stall your progress, especially if you’re working through recovery—whether from grief, addiction, or a major life change. Pushing down uncomfortable feelings might seem harmless at first, even helpful, like a way to stay in control. But over time, it becomes a barrier to real healing. You can only hold so much … Read more