Unfortunately, uninformed stigmas of individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) are common. Most people do not understand that addiction is a chronic disease, not a moral weakness or compromised willpower. It is caused by significant changes in an individual’s brain structure. This makes it incredibly hard for an individual to stop using drugs and alcohol. […]
Coping With the Stigmas of SUD Read More »
Bipolar disorder and substance use disorder (SUD) often co-occur. There are several reasons for this occurrence. It is common for a person with a mental health condition to self-treat with certain substances. Thus, this can often lead to addiction. Additionally, SUD can lead to an increased likelihood of an individual developing a mental health condition
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Now that a bit of time has passed, you may be more able to reflect on your condition and understand where it all started. Maybe you were exposed to the toxic substance at a young age. Perhaps you waited until college to try your first drink. The fact is, addiction is not a choice, but
Overcoming Alcohol Use Disorder Read More »
There are many reasons why people use drugs. Some use them to ease curiosity or social pressures. Others use them to self-medicate. Recreational drug use, regardless of the reason, poses risks. Self-medicating practices bring about challenges throughout treatment and recovery, though. It is essential to understand what self-medicating is and what it has to do
What Does Self-Medicating Have to Do With Addiction? Read More »
Today, alcohol and drug use is often glamorized in its presentation so that it camouflages the difference between fantasy and reality. Substance use is portrayed on film and in music, on social media and in ads, as fun, cool, or as an indication of success and rebellion. These depictions can downplay the devastating effects of
How Is Alcohol and Drug Use Glorified in Society? Read More »
Individuals with a mental health disorder are particularly vulnerable to developing substance use disorders (SUDs) and vice versa. The presence of both a mental health disorder and SUD is referred to as a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder. Prevalence rates for dual diagnoses remain high, affecting nearly half of those with mental illness or SUD.
What Is a Dual Diagnosis? Read More »
Adolescence is a developmental period that begins at the onset of puberty and carries into young adulthood, from ages 10 to 19. This period is a time of immense transition, especially as children begin to reach their teenage years. As so, teenagers are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues. As a parent of a teenager,
What Are the Risk Factors for Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder in Teens? Read More »
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are complex disorders of the brain, with addiction being the most severe form of SUD. These disorders range in severity and intensity, affecting every individual differently. However, what all SUDs have in common is that they affect an individual’s brain and behavior in long-lasting ways. While it is often common knowledge
How Does Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Affect the Brain? Read More »
Discover how addiction progresses as we take a look at the four stages of addiction and what they entail in this insightful guide from 12 South Recovery.
What Are the 4 Stages of Addiction? Read More »
Is your loved one struggling with substance abuse, but you don’t know what to do? Discover healthy ways to help someone with an addiction in this guide.
How to Help Someone You Love Who Has an Addiction Read More »
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