Doctors prescribe many prescription painkillers, but there are also a number of opioids that people buy on the streets. Whether people get these drugs from a doctor or from a dealer, they can all lead to substance abuse. The following are some of the most addictive painkillers. At The Willows at Red Oak Recovery, we…
The definition of a gateway drug doesn’t change. However, the substances that experts consider to be gateway drugs are up for debate. Most importantly, though, people need to understand the definition. Understanding the term “gateway drug” can help them make up their own minds about which substances fall in that category. A gateway drug could…
Opioids can lead even those who have never used illegal drugs to develop addictions. Therefore, preventing addiction to drugs starts with doctors regulating the use of these opioids. However, they also must encourage their patients with signs of opioid addiction to get help as soon as possible. If you or a woman you love is…
The United States continues to battle the fallout from the opioid health crisis that first emerged in the early 90s. It started when pharmaceutical companies began focusing more on eliminating pain versus managing it safely. Women ended up suffering the most, with millions finding themselves trapped in a spiral of opioid addiction. Women also started…
Addiction recovery can be a long and sometimes painful journey. It can be challenging to overcome physical and psychological dependence on drugs or alcohol. During the process of recovering from drug or alcohol addiction, your emotions may be all over the place. The good news is that you can find techniques to help you manage…
Benzodiazepine, or benzos, is a sedative type that many people rely on to manage mental health symptoms. It is not entirely healthy or safe for its users as it is also associated with dependence. But, a benzo shortage due to increased demand or disrupted production is still dangerous. An abrupt benzo shortage could leave dependent…
Many people are asking, “What is kratom?” Reports about the supposed benefits of the imported “wonder herb” has many taking a closer look. Others feel a bit suspicious about such supplements due to their perceived connection to opioids. Perhaps it is time to look at the facts and try and understand what kratom is and…
Methamphetamine is a drug that impacts millions of families and individuals alike around the globe each year. With methamphetamine, individuals feel a rush of energy and typically feel euphoric. This makes the drug extremely appealing and addictive, even after just one use. Understanding the long-term effects of meth on the mind and body is essential.…
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2 million people had an opioid use disorder in 2018 alone. The state has enforced different protocols to help reduce the number of overdoses and deaths contributing to the opioid epidemic. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services states that the opioid epidemic…
Many people do not know enough about alcohol and substance abuse. Some might ask, “Is alcohol a drug?” and “What are the effects of alcohol? Alcohol is a drug that reduces a person’s ability to think clearly and messes with their judgment. It will disturb your brain’s normal functioning, which could cause you to depend…
