Bipolar depression is a disorder that is defined by cycling moods and energy levels that fall far outside the norm. This combination of manic or hypomanic episodes punctuated by depressive episodes is the primary defining characteristic. To begin to understand this disorder, it helps to know the three main types of bipolar depression.
What is Bipolar Depression? Read More »
Opiates are notorious for their addictive qualities and the impact they have on people who become dependent on them. Opium and its derivatives have been a part of human history for more than 3000 years. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, it wasn’t until 1806 that the active ingredient in opium was first isolated. It was named morphine, after the ancient Greek god of sleep and dreams. (1) That marked the beginning of humanity’s complex pharmacological relationship with opioid compounds.
Why Are Opiates So Addictive? Read More »
The Addiction Severity Index (ASI) is an assessment used by clinicians or researchers to evaluate a person’s need for substance abuse treatment. ASI is an instrument that guides treatment planning, and a semi-structured interview process that also assesses the history, intensity, and consequences of substance abuse.
What Is the Addiction Severity Index? Read More »
The 4th of July is synonymous with drinking and partying. For people in sobriety, it can be difficult to navigate the holiday. However, if you feel strongly that you want to have the 4th of July experience while staying true to your recovery, these sober party tips can help.
6 Tips for Navigating 4th of July Parties While Sober Read More »
To feel “low” from time to time is to be human, but what happens when it takes over your life? Major Depressive Disorder, or clinical depression, is a mood disorder that affects how you think, feel, and behave. It can manifest in physical symptoms like extreme fatigue and can affect normal day-to-day functioning. In some cases it can be so severe that sufferers feel that there is no reason to live and can become suicidal.
Understanding Major Depressive Disorder Read More »
Nitrous oxide, also known as Laughing Gas or Whip-its, is a colorless, odorless gas which works as an inhalant. It has been provided in clinical settings for over a century to relax patients for procedures. Reusable whipped cream canisters, like the ones for professional chef use, use Nitrous Oxide as a propellant. This is how it is more commonly acquired for recreational use.
What is Nitrous Oxide? This Risky Inhalant Poses Health Concerns Read More »
In the past, men reported higher rates of addiction and substance use disorder than women, but in the past few decades women have swiftly closed the gender gap. Today, men and women experience roughly equal rates of these issues. However, women’s rates of progression, experiences, reasons for use, and stigmas can vary greatly from their male counterparts.
Women’s Healthcare Month: How Addiction Affects Women Differently Read More »
Tobacco has always been said to be a gateway into heavier alcohol, drug and substance use among the teens. This was proven in 2007, when a study at Columbia University found that the nicotine in tobacco products poses a significant risk of structural and chemical changes in developing brains. These changes actually put teens at greater risk of developing addictions to alcohol and drugs.
Substance Abuse Rates Are Higher in the LGBTQ Community Read More »
Tobacco has always been said to be a gateway into heavier alcohol, drug and substance use among the teens. This was proven in 2007, when a study at Columbia University found that the nicotine in tobacco products poses a significant risk of structural and chemical changes in developing brains. These changes actually put teens at greater risk of developing addictions to alcohol and drugs.
Effect of Tobacco on Teens and Addiction Read More »
Memorial Day is coming up fast and while many are looking forward to the long weekend, holidays like this one can create some anxiety for those of us in recovery. It might be a little easier than usual, since we’re still technically in the time of social distancing, but we asked some of our sober friends for their tips for navigating Memorial Day.
7 Sober Tips for Memorial Day From People Who’ve Been There Read More »
