Addiction is complex. What happens in the brain and body can be a challenge to understand because of the numerous changes that may occur. Chemical dependency is one of them. A person who may be using drugs or alcohol on a compulsive basis may be unable to stop using because of dependency. What is it?…
When a parent, sibling, or other close family member suffers from addiction, a child can be impacted in various ways. Evidence indicates that a child’s environment when growing up and their brain is developing affects their life’s outcome, including personality traits, beliefs, as well as mental and physical health. Learning how addiction affects children is…
The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence started Alcohol Awareness Month to help educate the public on alcohol addiction. It had an original intention to target college-aged students, but today it’s used to provide education to people of all ages. This Alcohol Awareness Month, find ways to give back to the community or reach…
Understanding the difference between drinking a bit too much and alcoholism is hard to do. Many people engaging in alcohol abuse believe they can control it and that they don’t need to change. Yet, when you realize you have a drinking problem, you can then take steps to get help. That help can change the…
If you have a parent who struggles to control his or her drinking, you may be wondering how to confront him or her. You love your parents, and you only want what is best for them. Whether you have a beer dad, a wine mom, or someone else entirely, it is important for you to…
Self-medication refers to the process of taking substances to treat perceived conditions or symptoms without consulting a healthcare provider. It is a self-care initiative of handling conditions and ailments without professional understanding and diagnosis. Unfortunately, individuals with underlying drug addiction issues often opt for self-medication instead of seeking appropriate medical attention in a rehab facility…
Why do people drink alcohol? Usually, it is to enhance their mood. When people drink a bit, they tend to lose some of their inhibitions and become much more open to their emotions. In this way, alcohol acts as a stimulant. However, alcohol is also a depressant. But, you may wonder, how is alcohol a…
Drinking alcohol is not bad, per se. Just the right amount of it can have a relaxing effect. And drinking with friends is an excellent social experience. However, drinking heavily can lead to severe repercussions, making it vital to know the signs of alcohol overdose. Fortunately, Georgia Addiction Treatment Center can provide the treatment necessary.…
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms occur when you suddenly stop using alcohol after you have been drinking excessively. It can range from mild to severe and can be quite dangerous. In rare cases, alcohol withdrawal can even be fatal. One of the disturbing aspects of alcohol withdrawal is that the symptoms get worse over time. It’s also…
Do you sometimes wonder, “Is alcohol a drug?” A lot of people think alcohol isn’t a drug because most equate drugs to various medications in pill form. However, the definition of a drug is any substance besides food that affects the body’s function. However, alcohol affects the body in the same way drugs do and…