Women with addiction retain fundamental reproductive rights, including the right to become pregnant, receive prenatal care, and parent their children, provided they can ensure the child’s safety and well-being. State governments, through child protective services, assess factors such as substance use during pregnancy, home environment, parenting capacity, and the availability of a support network to … Read more
Incubation of craving refers to the phenomenon where cravings for substances intensify over time during abstinence, often triggered by cues such as sights, sounds, emotions, or memories linked to past use. This growing sensitivity can catch individuals off guard, increasing the risk of relapse even after weeks or months of sobriety. Preventing relapse in the … Read more
During addiction recovery, triggers like stress, emotions, or environments can spark cravings and relapse. Effective management combines self-skills, family support, and community resources, helping individuals cope with stress, avoid triggers, and build lasting sobriety. Understanding and Managing Triggers in Addiction Recovery In addiction recovery, triggers are people, places, things, emotions, or situations that spark cravings … Read more
Stigma in faith-healing communities frames addiction as a moral failing, discouraging treatment. Educating pastors in addiction science can bridge faith and healthcare. Still, challenges—such as theological resistance, blurred roles, and cultural or ethical concerns—must be addressed through respectful dialogue and workshops. Breaking Barriers: Confronting the Stigma of Addiction in Faith-Healing Communities Faith plays a decisive … Read more
Self-efficacy—the belief in one’s ability to handle challenges—is crucial in addiction recovery, boosting confidence to resist cravings, improving self-esteem, and reducing loneliness by fostering social connections. When integrated into treatment through goal-setting, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and peer support, it enhances motivation and outcomes. However, overconfidence can lead to relapse risk, self-blame, and resistance to help, and … Read more
Opioid settlement funds are helping communities tackle the epidemic by supporting treatment programs, prevention campaigns, and harm reduction initiatives. But these funds aren’t without challenges. Delays in distribution, limited resources, and the risk of misallocation can reduce their impact. Ethical questions around fairness, transparency, and corporate accountability make it clear that careful planning and oversight … Read more
Employer involvement in addiction care supports employee recovery and workplace productivity by providing resources and reducing stigma. Benefits include better well-being and reduced absenteeism, while challenges include privacy concerns, expertise gaps, and potential discrimination. Ethical issues focus on balancing autonomy with safety. Success also depends on individual self-management, family support, and community resources that help … Read more
Allowing pharmacists to prescribe buprenorphine for opioid use disorder improves access to treatment, especially in underserved areas. Benefits include convenience and reduced stigma, while challenges involve care coordination and privacy concerns. Ethical issues focus on informed consent and quality of care. Pharmacists must have a valid DEA registration, complete the required training, and comply with … Read more
Medicaid cuts significantly reduce access to vital mental health and addiction services, placing some of the most vulnerable individuals at heightened risk for untreated illness, relapse, and overdose. Many people with substance use disorders and serious mental health conditions rely on Medicaid for medications, therapy, inpatient and outpatient treatment, and recovery supports. When funding is … Read more
Sexual misconduct in addiction treatment facilities is a serious issue that targets vulnerable individuals in recovery. Patients may face trauma, power imbalances, and emotional instability, increasing their risk. Prevention relies on self-management strategies like boundary-setting, strong family advocacy and communication, and community resources such as oversight agencies and reporting systems. These combined efforts help ensure … Read more