Feels So Good...Hurts so Bad: Body's Response to Alcohol Abuse, The
Even if the drinker does not recognize the effects alcohol is having, the body does. It causes memory impairment and loss, vitamin deficiency, and blackouts. Alcohol affects the interaction among nerve cells in the parts of the brain responsible for...
Web of Addiction: Role of Families in Cycle of Addiction
The role families play in the cycle of addiction is often overlooked. For example, it is important not to give the addict money, even when they threaten to harm themselves if you don't. Family therapy can provide supportive structures that will prom...
Feels So Good...Hurts so Bad: Risk Factors Related to Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol is an engrained part of our society. Fifty-two percent of Americans drink, many responsibly without threatening their health or relationships. In Europe, where the use of alcohol is part of the ritual of life it is uncommon to see adults dri...
Feels So Good...Hurts so Bad: Seeking Help
Jerry Rathner talks about her struggle to stop drinking. Inpatient treatment, in which the alcoholic lives at the treatment facility is helpful during the early phases of treatment, particularly acute detoxification. About 10% of the patients need ...
Feels So Good...Hurts so Bad: Put Down That Cigarette: Difficulties and Rewards
Two genetic indicators may influence whether or not people are successful in their attempts to quit smoking: dopamine and serotonin transporters. Because the process of withdrawal is difficult, counselors often recommend that patients try the patch ...
Feels So Good...Hurts so Bad: Increased Incidence of Smoking Among Adolescents and Teens
A recent survey of 12th grade students showed that 1/3 did not believe there was a great risk in smoking cigarettes. Although smoking rates among adults have declined significantly, adolescent rates have climbed, particularly among teenagers who are...
Feels So Good...Hurts so Bad: Smoking: A Chronic Relapsing Disease
Addiction is a chronic relapsing disease. People who try to quit smoking may fail 7 to 10 times before succeeding. People contend it is more difficult to stop than heroin or cocaine use, perhaps because of the biology of nicotine addiction or simply...
Web of Addiction: Breaking the Hold of Drug Dependence
When people are addicted to drugs like alcohol or heroin their brain is saying, "Danger, don't stop this drug!" It takes a lot of help to kick the habit because of the pain of withdrawal. Some programs use substitute drugs, such as methadone for her...
Web of Addiction: Destructive Effects of Cocaine, The
Cocaine is a reinforcing stimulant drug that is extremely addictive. Users are not satisfied with the same dose day after day; they must have more. The rapid high associated with cocaine can cause disturbances in heart rhythm, heart attacks and stro...
Web of Addiction: Marijuana Use
Other than alcohol, marijuana is the most prevalent drug of choice in our society, particularly among younger people. It has toxic effects because it is inhaled and appears to be linked to increase risk of cancer, bronchitis, and asthma. Marijuana i...