The National Alliance to End Homelessness (NAEH) reports that there are more than 580,000 homeless individuals in the United States. About 46,000 of these people – or approximately 8% of the U.S. homeless population – live in the city of Los Angeles. As local, state, and national leaders examine both possible causes and potential solutions…
Although marijuana is one of the most commonly abuse substances in the United States, many myths persist about how this drug can impact people. One of these myths is that a person cannot become addicted to marijuana. The truth is that many people can and do develop cannabis use disorder (which is the clinical term…
If someone in your family has been struggling with addiction, it is important to acknowledge how you have been affected by their behaviors. When you understand the family roles in addiction, you will be better able to help yourself, your loved one, and your entire family. What Do Family Roles in Addiction Mean? Substance use…
Meth, which is short for methamphetamine, is a powerful and dangerous stimulant. People who abuse this drug put themselves at risk for considerable harm, including a phenomenon called meth psychosis. Luckily, meth psychosis and addiction to this drug can be treated at a methamphetamine detox center such as ours. About Meth Psychosis Psychosis refers to…
What is neuroplasticity, and how long does it take to rewire your brain from addiction? Addiction can cause both functional and structural changes to your brain. When you end your substance abuse, your brain can begin to repair this damage. Clinicians refer to the brain’s ability to reorganize its internal connections as neuroplasticity. Informally, this…
Mixing prescription drugs with alcohol can be extremely dangerous and potentially deadly. Given the many risks that are associated with this behavior, why anyone would ever do it? Why Do People Mix Prescription Drugs with Alcohol? Here are a few reasons why someone might take a prescription drug along with alcohol: Lack of awareness: Most…
Thanks to concerted public awareness campaigns, most people now understand that alcoholism is a disease, not a character flaw or a sign of poor self-control. But why do some people develop this disease, while others are able to drink in moderation without becoming addicted? Is alcoholism genetic, or is some other cause to blame? Is…
For people who have ADHD and certain other concerns, Adderall can be a life-changing medication. But if someone misuses this drug, they risk becoming addicted. In the absence of effective professional care, Adderall addiction side effects can be extremely harmful and possibly fatal. Is Adderall Addictive? Adderall is the brand name of a prescription medication…
Advances in pain management medications have allowed countless people to live much more active and satisfying lives than they would previously have been able to experience. Unfortunately, as is the case with virtually every medication, the use of Percocet and other pain pills can be dangerous. Potential problems can include abuse, Percocet addiction, overdose, and…
Xanax and other prescription medications have enabled countless people to live healthier and more satisfying lives. Unfortunately, as is the case with virtually every type of prescription drug, Xanax use can be accompanied by a variety of dangerous side effects, including a risk of abuse and dependence. With millions of people using this drug every…