There is no one known cause of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) that has been identified. Evidence has shown multiple factors are usually at play, influencing development of GAD. Some factors include things like genetics, brain chemistry, family history, and life experiences. Learn more about GAD. Genetics Genetics may play a role in determining whether or…
Depressants are drugs that inhibit function of the central nervous system (CNS) and are among the most widely used drugs in the world. These drugs operate by impacting neurons in the CNS, which leads to symptoms like drowsiness, relaxation, decreased inhibition, anesthesia, sleep, coma, even death. Addiction is a possibility with them and, over time,…
The harmful effects of a man-made drug like Spice or K2 seems to have created widespread health-related issues. Synthetic marijuana contains powerful chemicals and may even induce seizures for some people. Learn more about the connection between drugs and seizures. Mind-Altering Drugs Synthetic cannabinoids are not detectable on most standard in-house hospital drug screens. Poison…
Marijuana is made from shredded and dried up parts of the cannabis plant, including flowers, seeds, leaves, and stems. While many people smoke or vape it, it can also be consumed as an edible. Different methods of taking the drug may impact the body differently. When it is inhaled, the drug is released into the…
Meth impacts a person’s body and mind. Someone who uses meth is going to experience some challenging effects during use and during withdrawal phases of use. Learn more about the impact of meth on a person’s mind and body, including overall health. Skin The skin gets greatly impacted by meth use. Low blood flow, destroyed…
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health disorder caused by witnessing a traumatic event or experiencing it first hand. Those who experience PTSD may end up using self-medicating techniques like drugs or alcohol to reduce anxiety and stress. Most people who have suffered through events like this eventually overcome anxiety, depression, and agitation. When…
A difficult area of life for people who walk away from addiction can be interpersonal relationships. Often people find their discomfort around people drives them into substance use. When people are sober they need to learn how to deal with humans without crutches of substances. This can be difficult in the beginning and lead to…
Risky behavior in recovery is a formula for relapse. It is easy to forget that there are triggers and things which can trip you up if you are not careful. Recovery is not a game, it is serious business. It is easy to forget, but addiction can rear its ugly head in many ways if…
Ambien is a drug that depresses the brain and body. When withdrawal kicks in, the person may want to take more of the drug to avoid experiencing debilitating side effects. In people who have not abused the drug, possible withdrawal side effects include nausea, fatigue, irritability, anxiety, depression, memory loss, and confusion. Most people with…
The difference between addiction and dependence can be difficult to understand. Some organizations have different definitions and may even abandon these terms because ‘substance use disorder’ is being used more frequently. However the terms are used, addiction and dependence are key terms in understanding how a person comes to struggle with substance use. Addiction Addiction…