Polysubstance abuse is a dangerous behavior that involves the intentional misuse of two or more drugs at the same time. There’s no such thing as safe polysubstance abuse, but some drug combinations – such as mixing benzos with alcohol – can be especially hazardous. What are the Dangers of Mixing Benzos With Alcohol? Before we…
With the exception of alcohol and (in some states) marijuana, recreational substance abuse typically involves either illegal drugs or illicitly diverted prescription medications. The underground nature of this behavior has led to the development of myriad slang terms for street drugs. For example, discussions about study buddies or disco biscuits may be less likely to…
If you were to ask a group of people to name the first addictive substance they can think of, the odds of someone mentioning Benadryl are fairly slim. Is that because there’s no such thing as Benadryl addiction, or because most people don’t realize that Benadryl is addictive? What is Benadryl? Benadryl is an over-the-counter…
Over the past 20 years, the popularity of kratom has increased considerably in the United States. But many people who use it aren’t aware of the damage it can cause. This lack of information includes not knowing if they can become addicted to this substance and failing to understand what could happen to them during…
Could one of the most widely prescribed ADHD medications increase a person’s risk for harmful psychological side effects? In today’s post, we investigate an important question about a popular prescription drug: Does Adderall cause depression or other mental health challenges? History of Adderall The medication that we know as Adderall has been authorized for use…
If you’ve never encountered the drug called krokodil, consider yourself fortunate. This dangerous substance has the ability to cause grievous harm to anyone who uses it – and in recent years, reports of its presence in cities throughout the United States have become increasingly common. What is the Drug Called Krokodil? Krokodil (which is the…
If you think that someone you care about has been abusing substances, being able to identify drug paraphernalia can help you confirm your suspicions. This can be an important step toward connecting your loved one with professional help. What is Drug Paraphernalia? Drug paraphernalia is an extremely broad term that can be applied to a…
When someone that you care about becomes addicted to alcohol or another drug, it’s understandable to feel frustrated and helpless. And while you can’t cure your loved one’s substance use disorder, you can play an important role in their recovery efforts. Simply offering encouraging words for someone in rehab can make a tremendous positive impact…
SMART Recovery groups and AA meetings are two of the most widely known support resources for people who have been struggling with addictions to alcohol and other drugs. When you understand the similarities and differences between SMART Recovery vs. AA, you can make the most informed choice about which approach is right for you. What…
The impact of addiction extends far beyond the individuals who have become dependent on alcohol or other drugs. Spouses, partners, and children are among those who are most likely to also be negatively affected when people develop substance use disorders (which is the clinical term for addiction). Understanding how to deal with your husband and…