Synthetic drugs are gaining in popularity in Florida. Just because you can find something at a local convenience store, that does not make it safe. One of the most commonly-used types of synthetic substances is bath salts, which are composed of a variety of chemicals, none of which are used for bathing. In Florida, these are now considered controlled substances, … Read More
Is There a Difference Between Morphine Dependence and Addiction?
Morphine is a prescription pain medication that is often prescribed to treat acute pain in a hospital setting. It changes how the brain perceives pain by binding to its pain receptors. It can also have other effects such as euphoria and mood changes. While morphine is highly addictive, there is a difference between morphine dependence and addiction. How Addictive Is … Read More
How Alcohol Blackouts Affect Your Health
Drinking so much that you cannot remember events from the night before might seem funny in movies or on television, but, in reality, the experience can be frightening. Alcohol blackout experiences can result in you being in a dangerous situation or you might even find out that you have done something you might regret for the rest of your life. … Read More
The Rising Tide of Benzo Abuse: Have You Been Affected?
In the world of prescription drug misuse and addiction, opioids might get significant media attention. But there is another type of drug that poses a significant risk: benzodiazepines. Also called benzos, these controlled substances include Valium, Ativan, Klonopin and Xanax. This line of drugs is prescribed by medical professionals for anxiety, insomnia, seizures and alcohol withdrawal. While short-term use of … Read More
The Double Trouble of Domestic Violence and Addiction in Florida
When someone in a family or intimate relationship holds power over another, this can create a pattern of abusive behavior. This type of domestic abuse is common in Florida, and it often has associations with alcohol and drug misuse. Fortunately, there are Florida addiction treatment resources that can help break this cycle of abuse and chart a pathway to recovery. … Read More
How to Choose an Interventionist
It can be heartbreaking and nerve-wracking when someone you care about has a substance use disorder. You might have a family member or another loved one who is unable to stop drinking or using drugs. They may also be resisting your pleadings to get the help they need and deserve. You have decided that it is time to stage an … Read More
Drug and Substance Abuse Disorders: A Look at the South
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released the 2018 Annual Surveillance Report of Drug-Related Risks and Outcomes. The report outlines the effects of illicit and prescription drugs and how they are impacting the United States. It breaks up some of its data into regions and individual states, so there is information regarding how this nation’s drug crisis … Read More
Rehab Instead of Jail: Police Plan to Strike a Blow For Addiction Recovery
Millions of people in the United States are arrested on alcohol and drug-related crimes each year. More than 24.5 million Americans have a substance use disorder, and some of the risky behavior associated with substance misuse can lead to criminal charges. Unfortunately, spending time in jail does not cure addiction. Even though about half of all prison inmates meet the criteria … Read More
Why Accreditation Matters for Florida Drug Rehab Facilities
If you or any of your loved ones are seeking treatment for a substance use disorder, you might see hundreds of online ads that promise miracle results. How do you know when a treatment center is reputable? Media stories about fraud in Florida drug rehab facilities abound, so this is an important decision. With so many options for addiction treatment, … Read More
6 Aftercare Options for Long-Term Recovery Support
While the rehab experience can be transformative for someone with a substance use disorder, recovery must continue after discharge or the risk is high for a return to use. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that 40 to 60 percent of people with a substance use disorder experience a recurrence of use after treatment. These figures are similar … Read More