Addictive drugs generally fall into two categories: depressants vs stimulants. While some people may use them together, most of the time, individuals prefer one or the other. And how they act when using can signal to you what type of drugs your loved one is using. What Are the Signs of Use? Stimulants, or “uppers,”…
The link between depression and drug addiction may be complicated. But it’s no secret. Those with diagnosed depression drink 69% of the alcohol in the US. They use 84% of the nation’s cocaine. In many people, addiction also intensifies feelings of loneliness, despair, and lack of interest in normally enjoyable activities. So drugs accentuate hallmarks of depression.…
The link between alcoholism and depression isn’t that shocking. Most people, after all, are aware that alcohol is a depressant. That, of course, means that symptoms like depression are more easily and likely to be experienced. The link between depression and alcoholism goes much deeper than the mere fact that alcohol is a depressant. Studies…
What are some major signs of a high functioning drug addict? It’s not always easy to tell. A high functioning drug addict isn’t going to have the traditional markers of drug addiction, because they are functioning well. Here’s how to tell if someone is a high functioning drug addict. 1. Constantly Being Around Drinking and Drugs Someone…
There are two major types of opioids: synthetic and natural. It isn’t always necessary to distinguish between the two. Most are just referred to as opioids to the medical community, and narcotics to the law enforcement community. However, there are differences between the two, and synthetic opioids can potentially be far more powerful. Thus, it’s vital…
Percocet is an opioid pain medication that is a combination of the drugs oxycodone and acetaminophen. Doctors typically prescribe it as a last resort to those not responsive to non-opioid pain relievers. The dangerousness of Percocet to individuals lies in its addictive qualities. Individuals who misuse their prescription can quickly end up abusing Percocet and…
In 2017, more than 70,000 people in this country died from a drug overdose in part due to a very dangerous opioid — fentanyl. It’s essential for anyone who knows someone with an addiction to be aware of fentanyl withdrawal symptoms and to understand why this drug is so dangerous. What is Fentanyl? Before you can…
What is hydrocodone? You might ask this question if your physician has written you a prescription for a brand-name drug such as Vicodin or Lortab. Hydrocodone is the generic form of an opioid painkiller that’s present in various brands of medication; hence, the different names. It’s a schedule II controlled substance. This means it has…
An opioid is a powerful painkiller. It works by causing a mental stupor that reduces your ability to feel discomfort. While opioids can be used per doctor’s orders, they’re highly addictive and often abused. In 2017, over 1200 Virginians died from an opioid overdose. And even someone who is using them correctly may develop dependence. That’s why…
Last year, over 21 million people in the US needed substance treatment. That’s one in 13 people. If that number surprises you, consider this. Each of those 21 million was in different stages of addiction when they got treatment. Some may not have yet reached rock bottom. They began reclaiming their life at earlier stages. For this…