Addiction Help Center » Addiction Help http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5.1 What’s the Difference between Addiction and Pseudo-Addiction? http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/whats-the-difference-between-addiction-and-pseudo-addiction/ http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/whats-the-difference-between-addiction-and-pseudo-addiction/#comments Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:35 +0000 frn-admin http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/?p=1511 Pain medications like Oxycodone, OxyContin, Demerol, and Hydrocodone are extremely addictive. As addictions to these commonly prescribed medications are on the rise, medical professionals are increasingly on the lookout for potential signs of addiction and addiction-seeking behavior. A new term has arisen out of this issue: Pseudo-addiction (sometimes called “pseudoaddiction”). Pseudo-addiction can look a lot [...]

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]]> What’s the Difference between Addiction and Pseudo-Addiction?Pain medications like Oxycodone, OxyContin, Demerol, and Hydrocodone are extremely addictive. As addictions to these commonly prescribed medications are on the rise, medical professionals are increasingly on the lookout for potential signs of addiction and addiction-seeking behavior. A new term has arisen out of this issue: Pseudo-addiction (sometimes called “pseudoaddiction”).

Pseudo-addiction can look a lot like true addiction to the outside observer. Pain can cause a person to feel afraid and panicked. If a person has suffered a serious injury or illness, he may even experience PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) symptoms when pain triggers uncomfortable memories. It is human nature to avoid pain—therefore a person who is in a great deal of it can appear as desperate as a drug-seeking addict.

Pseudo-addiction differs from true addiction. Some of the symptoms of pseudo-addiction that are similar to addiction symptoms include the following:

  • Anxiety about finding or keeping pain medication available
  • Constant thinking or discussing pain management or pain medication
  • A need to keep pain medication on hand, even if it is not being used

A true painkiller or opiate addiction has other more serious symptoms including the following:

  • Needing increasing amounts of the drug to feel comfortable, resulting in dependence
  • Using the medication to deal with painful emotions or anxiety
  • Engaging in dangerous or atypical behavior, such as stealing more drugs, seeking drugs outside of the doctor’s office, “doctor shopping,” or stealing to get more medication
  • Using the drug even though the drug user cannot afford the medication or the drug has caused mental distress, damaged relationships, or damage to home, life, or relationships
  • An inability to stop using the drug without assistance or severe illness

The problem is, pseudo-addiction and true painkiller addiction can look strikingly similar to even experienced medical professionals. It can be incredibly frustrating and disheartening to suffer chronic or acute pain and feel ignored by professionals who are supposed to care.

Keep in mind that you are not alone. Your doctor and medical team understand that painkiller addiction is not a moral or character flaw. Painkiller addiction can happen to anyone. Opiate dependence can happen quickly to any person of any age, background, race, or gender. In some cases, nurses and doctors have been so well trained to recognize the signs of addiction that they can misjudge true pain symptoms and accidentally prevent patients who are in true need from getting much needed pain assistance.

By arming yourself with knowledge about pseudo-addiction and true addiction, you can be a more informed patient and demand a higher quality of care. You will also be better able to discern when painkiller drugs have become less effective and more addictive.

Suffering with Pain for Fear of Being Labeled as a Drug Seeker

Believe it or not, there are patients who are afraid to ask their doctors for pain assistance because of the stigma associated with painkiller addiction. Many people fear appearing addicted, and instead struggle with pain without proper medication.

If you or someone you love is struggling with severe pain, you deserve quality care. You have a right to benefit from available treatment options. If you fear that your doctor or nurse is withholding medication when you are truly in pain, you may want to seek out a second medical opinion.

If in Doubt, Call to Learn More

If you are concerned about your own pain medication use or the pain medication use of someone you love, please call us.

You may feel like there is no way to get past a painkiller addiction without neglecting your pain. You don’t have to live in pain or struggle with an addiction. There may be other solutions to keep you well and happy. Call our confidential helpline today to speak with a counselor who can help you learn more about pain management and addiction.

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]]> http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/whats-the-difference-between-addiction-and-pseudo-addiction/feed/ 0 Reward Deficiency Syndrome and Addiction http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/reward-deficiency-syndrome-and-addiction/ http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/reward-deficiency-syndrome-and-addiction/#comments Sun, 28 Apr 2013 00:00:58 +0000 frn-admin http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/?p=1495 Reward Deficiency Syndrome is a condition in which an individual lacks a proper brain chemical balance, and as a result experiences stress, pain, discomfort, and agitation. More specifically, the human brain produces several “feel good” chemicals, like serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, GABA, and endorphins. These chemicals are responsible for activating the brain’s “reward center” or specific [...]

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]]> Reward Deficiency Syndrome is a condition in which an individual lacks a proper brain chemical balance, and as a result experiences stress, pain, discomfort, and agitation. More specifically, the human brain produces several “feel good” chemicals, like serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, GABA, and endorphins. These chemicals are responsible for activating the brain’s “reward center” or specific brain receptors. When these “feel good” chemicals are low or blocked from the brain’s receptors, a person can experience mood instability, anxiety, hypersensitivity, and irritability. This condition is known as Reward Deficiency Syndrome.

The Connection between Reward Deficiency Syndrome and Addiction

Individuals can be born with the genetic make-up that interferes with proper production or utilization of “feel good” brain chemicals; this is true for many individuals with a family history of alcoholism, addiction or other mental health disorders. Addiction has been linked to a defective dopamine receptor gene known as D2A1 allele. Individuals with a defective dopamine receptor gene lack enough dopamine receptors in the brain to experience a “neurochemical reward” or feelings of wellbeing. Therefore, individuals with a family history of addiction are susceptible to this gene and Reward Deficiency Syndrome. Conversely, drug and alcohol use can also lead to the development of this defect. Addiction changes the way the brain works, including the brain’s natural chemical reward process. As drugs or alcohol continue to interfere with the brain’s chemical process, a person can lose the natural ability to produce “feel good” chemicals and this may prompt continued substance abuse for self-medicating purposes. Reward Deficiency Syndrome may also develop from prolonged stress and trauma.

Individuals with Reward System Deficiency, from genetic or environmental causes, are both highly-susceptible to addictions. If a person cannot naturally make themselves feel good, they are likely to seek out substances or behaviors that will produce these feelings for them. Drugs and alcohol are substances that have the ability to chemically active the brain’s reward system and alter mood and energy levels. People are able relieve stress, suppress physical pain, escape from emotional pain and combat symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mood disorders temporarily with the use of these substances. Self-medicating Reward Deficiency Syndrome significantly increases the risk of developing chemical dependency and addiction. Food is another substance that can affect the brain’s reward system and this can lead to a food addiction, weight gain, obesity and major health problems. Behavioral addictions, like gambling or sex, can also result from Reward Deficiency Syndrome, because these activities also affect brain chemicals.

Treating Reward Deficiency Syndrome during Addiction Treatment

While certain substances or behaviors may temporarily relieve the symptoms of Reward Deficiency Syndrome, addiction only exacerbates these symptoms and causes more damage to the brain. Individuals with Reward Deficiency Syndrome must find and practice healthy ways of creating feelings of wellness. There are many options for addressing the genetic factors that contribute to this condition and developing strategies to manage the condition so it has limited effects on one’s life. Individuals struggling with addiction can learn to manage Reward Deficiency Syndrome through addiction treatment programs.
Get Help for Reward Deficiency Syndrome and Addiction

If you are concerned that you or a loved one is suffering from Reward Deficiency Syndrome and/or addiction, we can help. Please call our toll-free number to speak with a recovery professional that can help. Recovery professionals are happy to assist you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Whether you have questions, need information, or are ready to find treatment and recovery services today, we can help.

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]]> http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/reward-deficiency-syndrome-and-addiction/feed/ 0 Grief and Prescription Drug Addiction http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/grief-and-prescription-drug-addiction/ http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/grief-and-prescription-drug-addiction/#comments Mon, 08 Apr 2013 18:09:14 +0000 frn-admin http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/?p=1472 Grief is a natural result of loss—loss of a loved one, job, relationship or prized possession. In some cases, people may deal with the accompanying emotions negatively. While using prescription drugs to numb pain may seem like a good option, addiction can complicate grief and make recovery more difficult. However, with professional help you can [...]

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]]> Grief is a natural result of loss—loss of a loved one, job, relationship or prized possession. In some cases, people may deal with the accompanying emotions negatively. While using prescription drugs to numb pain may seem like a good option, addiction can complicate grief and make recovery more difficult. However, with professional help you can overcome grief and resume a happy life.

How Grief Leads to Prescription Drug Abuse

Reasons why grieving people may abuse prescription drugs include the following examples:

  • It’s easier. Some people abuse prescription drugs because it is easier than admitting they need emotional help. Rather than turning to someone to work through grief and emotional pain, people may turn to prescription drugs to overcome emotional issues. Abusing drugs to numb your emotions is easier than dealing with grief, because it induces a relaxed feeling that makes life seem enjoyable.
  • It’s what you’ve learned. Children learn patterns of behavior and ways to cope from their caregivers. If parents or close relatives numbed emotional pain or grief through prescription drug abuse, the child is more likely to turn to drugs to relieve negative emotions.
  • It provides instant relief. Today’s culture promotes instant gratification. Therefore, dealing with problems over time seems overwhelming, especially when people want relief as soon as possible. In such a “quick fix” culture, people may be unwilling to take the long, hard road of recovery from the pain of loss. Instead, these people may turn to prescription drugs, because these substances instantly relieve the trauma or pain. Unfortunately, prescription drug use often magnifies pain in the long run.

Prescription drug addiction does not take away grief, but only delays its expression. Only by dealing with the source of grief can people find the peace they long for. Fortunately, professionals who are trained in dealing with concurrent issues such as prescription drug addiction and grief can help you deal with both issues at the same time.

Help for Grief and Prescription Drug Abuse

You can recover from both prescription drug addiction and grief if you seek professional help. There is a way through the pain that doesn’t involve drug abuse. If you struggle with an emotional problem that is compounded by drug use, know that we can help. Please call our toll-free, 24 hour helpline anytime. You can talk with one of our addiction recovery specialists who will discuss the best treatment options for your unique situation. We can help you find relief from your prescription drug abuse and the grief it masks. Call us today and find the better life you are looking for.

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]]> http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/grief-and-prescription-drug-addiction/feed/ 0 Mephedrone Addiction Help http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/mephedrone-addiction-help/ http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/mephedrone-addiction-help/#comments Mon, 11 Mar 2013 00:00:54 +0000 frn-admin http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/?p=1449 Mephedrone is a recent arrival on the drug scene but is becoming more prevalent in the United States. It can be very addictive, produce serious adverse side-effects and has been implicated in the death of at least one U.S. citizen. What Is Mephedrone? Mephedrone is a synthetic analogue of the stimulant cathinone that occurs naturally [...]

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]]> Mephedrone is a recent arrival on the drug scene but is becoming more prevalent in the United States. It can be very addictive, produce serious adverse side-effects and has been implicated in the death of at least one U.S. citizen.

What Is Mephedrone?

Mephedrone is a synthetic analogue of the stimulant cathinone that occurs naturally in the khat plant of East Africa and Southern Arabia. Mephedrone is chemically similar to amphetamines and has virtually identical effects. It is typically sold in pill form that users can swallow or as a powder that users can snort or inject, producing effects similar to those of other stimulants such as MDMA, amphetamines, methamphetamines and cocaine.

Mephedrone has emerged recently as one of many designer drugs intended to skirt anti-drug laws in the ongoing quest for a legal high. Although it was first synthesized in 1929, mephedrone went largely unnoticed until it was rediscovered in 2003. Since then it has become relatively common in Middle Eastern and European countries. The United Kingdom in particular has experienced a significant mephedrone problem, and the drug has been detected in at least 38 cases of overdose fatalities.

The legal status of mephedrone is somewhat complicated. It has been outlawed in numerous countries in the European Union as well as Australia and Israel, among others. In the United States, however, a country usually in the vanguard of prohibition, mephedrone is not currently scheduled as a controlled substance. Since it is a synthetic analogue of the naturally occurring stimulant cathinone, which is a controlled substance, the Drug Enforcement Agency claims that it can be controlled under the Federal Analogue Act. However, this statute applies only to substances that are sold for human consumption; to sidestep this regulation, mephedrone is often sold as plant food or “bath salts” not intended for human consumption. The United States did place a temporary ban on mephedrone effective September 2011.

Effects of Mephedrone

Mephedrone has not been around long enough to have been studied adequately under laboratory conditions, so knowledge of its effects comes almost exclusively from reports by users. However, these reports confirm what is to be expected, namely that mephedrone produces effects consistent with stimulants as a class, including increased alertness and energy and a sense of euphoria. However, according to user reports and consistent with expectations, mephedrone also produces a wide range of negative side effects, including impaired concentration and short-term memory, hallucinations, delusions, hyperthermia, increased heart rate, difficulty breathing, erratic behavior, loss of appetite, sweating, paranoia, headaches, nausea, heart palpitations, anxiety and depression. It commonly causes users to grind their teeth, and snorting may result in nose bleeds. Long-term effects cannot be definitively stated due to mephedrone’s short history, but it can be safely assumed that long-term use may result in adverse effects consistent with use of other stimulants and including addiction, impotence and psychosis.

Treating Mephedrone Abuse and Addiction

Although mephedrone is relatively new, by comparing it to other drugs of this class, we can conclude that mephedrone use will result in a powerful addiction with serious negative consequences. If you do not currently use mephedrone, don’t start. If you are using mephedrone and would like help quitting, we can help you find the treatment you need. Please call our toll-free 24 hour helpline today to find resources, information and addiction treatment options that are right for you.

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]]> http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/mephedrone-addiction-help/feed/ 0 What Is an Overdose Reversal Kit? http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/what-is-an-overdose-reversal-kit/ http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/what-is-an-overdose-reversal-kit/#comments Mon, 24 Dec 2012 00:00:20 +0000 frn-admin http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/?p=1368 An overdose reversal kit is a resource of tools used to prevent or reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.  In many overdose situations, whether they be accidental or intentional, it is difficult to get immediate medical attention. An article in Time magazine stated that drug overdoses kill over an estimated 22,000 Americans every year. [...]

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]]> An overdose reversal kit is a resource of tools used to prevent or reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.  In many overdose situations, whether they be accidental or intentional, it is difficult to get immediate medical attention. An article in Time magazine stated that drug overdoses kill over an estimated 22,000 Americans every year. In order to prevent these situations from turning fatal, overdose relapse kits are being used as immediate treatment resources before medical assistance is available. An overdose reversal kit typically contains the prescription drug naloxone, as well as nasal adaptors, syringes and instructional guidelines for the recipient and his or her family.

How Does an Overdose Reversal Kit Work?

The naloxone that is included in an overdose reversal kit should be injected into an individual through a syringe during an overdose. The drug works to reverse the binding action of a drug to the brain’s opioid receptors. By stripping the drug from the brain’s receptors, the individual’s drug high is reversed and the symptoms of overdose can gradually diminish. Emergency breathing aid is also provided with the kit to encourage the free flow of oxygen and respiratory regularity. An overdose reversal kit is especially helpful for individuals who are too intoxicated or frightened to call for help.

Are Overdose Reversal Kits Safe?

An overdose reversal kit is safe and does come with video or written instructions. Before receiving the kit, individuals can also watch an instructional video at their doctors’ office or pharmacy, as well as via the Internet. The kit must be prescribed by a doctor, which will help ensure an individual’s understanding of safety precautions. Before using the kit, an individual will learn the signs and symptoms of an overdose, how to respond to the overdose, and how to use the naloxone reversal medication. In addition, individuals will also be instructed on the signs and symptoms of drug abuse, dependence and addiction, and how to get help for these issues as well as after they overdose. An overdose reversal kit is not meant to be a ‘get out of jail free card’ for individuals who are dealing with drug abuse. An overdose is a major red flag in that an individual’s drug use has gotten out of control and is putting his life in danger.

Don’t Risk Drug Overdose: Get Addiction Help Now

If you are concerned that you or a loved one may need help for a drug abuse problem or full-blown drug addiction, please get help now. Overdose is just one of many life-threatening consequences of drug addiction. To prevent you or a loved one from this high-risk situation, please call our toll-free helpline now. Our trained addiction counselors are available 24 hours a day to assist you in finding the treatment solutions right for your individual recovery. Whether you have questions, need information or are ready to find an addiction rehabilitation program now, we can help.

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]]> http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/what-is-an-overdose-reversal-kit/feed/ 0 Staying Sober while Visiting Family http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/staying-sober-while-visiting-family/ http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/staying-sober-while-visiting-family/#comments Sun, 16 Dec 2012 00:00:54 +0000 frn-admin http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/?p=1359 The holiday season is approaching, and that often means getting together with family to celebrate. For those in recovery from drug or alcohol addiction, visiting family can produce anxiety about recovery and fear of relapse. After all, many people drink and use drugs around the holidays. If members of your family are among those who [...]

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]]> The holiday season is approaching, and that often means getting together with family to celebrate. For those in recovery from drug or alcohol addiction, visiting family can produce anxiety about recovery and fear of relapse. After all, many people drink and use drugs around the holidays. If members of your family are among those who partake in drugs or alcohol, there are ways that you can cope with their use while avoiding relapse. If visiting family represents an unacceptable threat to your recovery, you may have to face the difficult decision of not visiting your family this holiday season.

Drinking May Lead to Relapse for Drug Addicts

Even if alcohol was not your drug of choice, drinking may constitute or trigger a relapse. Alcohol is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant and is cross-tolerant with other CNS depressants, including opiates, opioids, and benzodiazepines. If you are recovering from addiction to any of these drugs then drinking alcohol in itself may constitute a relapse.

Even if your drug of choice was not a CNS depressant but marijuana or cocaine, for example, drinking will lower your inhibitions and impair your judgment making it much more likely that you will relapse and use your drug of choice if given an opportunity.

Approaching Family Celebrations as a Recovering Addict

Suggestions for helping you to visit family and remain sober include but are not limited to the following:

  • Prior to the visit, attend support group meetings and talk to your sponsor to help re-affirm your commitment to sobriety
  • Be honest and up-front with your family about your recovery; make sure your family members know that you are in recovery and need their support
  • If someone offers you a drink or drugs politely decline, saying “no thank you, I’m a recovering addict and no longer use”
  • Make sure that non-alcoholic drinks will be available, and if necessary take your own; having a glass in your hand (with a non-alcoholic drink of course) will often discourage people from offering you a drink
  • Politely but firmly insist that family members and others in attendance respect your position; family and friends should support your recovery
  • Be prepared to stand your ground if someone tries to get you to drink or use drugs, arguing that “it won’t hurt you just this once, after all it’s a party”
  • If anyone persists in threatening your recovery you may leave. Do not get angry and cause a scene, but let them know that your recovery is priceless to you and you will come back when they are ready to respect it

Ongoing Support for Recovery

If you would like further suggestions for staying sober while visiting family, if you would like help finding support for continued recovery or treatment for addiction, or if you have any questions at all about addiction, treatment and recovery, please call our toll-free helpline today. Counselors are available 24 hours a day to answer any questions you may have and help you find the support or treatment you need.

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]]> http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/staying-sober-while-visiting-family/feed/ 0 Addiction Help for Members of the Hispanic Community http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/addiction-help-for-members-of-the-hispanic-community/ http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/addiction-help-for-members-of-the-hispanic-community/#comments Fri, 26 Oct 2012 00:00:38 +0000 frn-admin http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/?p=1306 Hispanics face special challenges when it comes to treating substance abuse and addiction. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than 30% of Hispanics do not carry health insurance, compared to the national average of 15%. The poverty rate among Hispanics is nearly twice the national average: 22.3% of Hispanics live [...]

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]]> Hispanics face special challenges when it comes to treating substance abuse and addiction. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than 30% of Hispanics do not carry health insurance, compared to the national average of 15%. The poverty rate among Hispanics is nearly twice the national average: 22.3% of Hispanics live below the poverty line, compared to the national average of 11.5%. Being poor and uninsured makes it difficult to obtain addiction treatment that is often quite expensive. Even relatively inexpensive programs can go beyond the means of people who struggle to pay for the basic needs.

Consequently Hispanics are not getting the addiction treatment they need. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that in 2009 only 7.7% of Hispanic alcoholics and 15.1% of Hispanic drug addicts received the treatment they need.

Latino-targeted Addiction Treatment

People are becoming more aware of the epidemic of drug abuse and addiction. With this increased awareness is coming a commitment to making quality addiction treatment accessible to all who need it. Treatment centers are becoming more common in areas with a high Latino population. Usually these facilities are set up just like any other treatment facility, but by virtue of being in a Hispanic community they naturally evolve to address the specific problems of Hispanic addicts and their families. Spanish is the primary language spoken in many of these facilities, and many of them are more affordable than in other communities. Furthermore, they also help their patients to find financial resources to pay for treatment.

One popular solution to affordable addiction treatment is recovery homes which operate as sober living communities. Residents live at the recovery home for a period of time, hold jobs and contribute to household expenses. The recovery home serves as a tremendous support network for recovering addicts and they have a high rate of success: Leonard Jason, professor of psychology and director of the Center for Community Research atDePaulUniversity, has studied the institutions for twenty years. In 2006 in the American Journal of Public Health, Jason published findings from a study of 150 recovering addicts, half of whom were residents at a recovery home in the metropolitanChicagoarea. The Oxford House residents maintained sobriety at twice the rate of non-residents, with 70% remaining sober compared to 35% for non-Oxford House residents. Jason attributes the high success rate to the sense of community and the support network inherent in a recovery home.

Help Finding Addiction Treatment

If you suffer from addiction, resources are available to help you get the treatment you need. If you would like help finding addiction treatment, call our toll-free helpline; counselors are available 24 hours a day to answer any questions you have and to help you explore your treatment options.

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]]> http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/addiction-help-for-members-of-the-hispanic-community/feed/ 0 How Do I Know If I Am Overmedicated? http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/how-do-i-know-if-i-am-overmedicated/ http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/how-do-i-know-if-i-am-overmedicated/#comments Wed, 10 Oct 2012 21:46:26 +0000 frn-admin http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/?p=1288 Being overmedicated is when an individual is using unnecessary or excessive medications. This condition has become a major problem in the United States, especially when it comes to seniors. Common issues from overmedication are bad drug interactions, overdose, chemical dependence, addiction, a long list of physical and psychological problems and death. Overmedication can occur because [...]

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]]> Being overmedicated is when an individual is using unnecessary or excessive medications. This condition has become a major problem in the United States, especially when it comes to seniors. Common issues from overmedication are bad drug interactions, overdose, chemical dependence, addiction, a long list of physical and psychological problems and death.

Overmedication can occur because a pharmacist is unaware of other medications a patient is using, because of human error, undiagnosed medical conditions and even from intentional, excessive use.

Signs That You Are Overmedicated

It is extremely difficult to diagnose yourself as overmedicated because the symptoms can imitate those of many other conditions. In addition, the symptoms of being overmedicated are many because an endless number of drugs are being used, as well as multiple combinations of drug interactions. Because of this, individuals that suspect they are overmedicated should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist. The most common signs of overmedication include the following issues:

  • Fatigue, loss of energy
  • Abdominal pain
  • Bodily aches and pain
  • Problems with motor and coordination skills
  • Reoccurring falls, accidents and other injuries
  • Frequent, skin flushing and rashes
  • Unexplained weight loss or gain
  • Dramatic changes in mood
  • Lack of personal hygiene
  • Difficulty concentrating and memory impairment
  • Mental cloudiness or confusion
  • Delayed thought process
  • Impaired rational though, difficulty with reasoning
  • Hallucinations (visual and auditory), delusions and psychosis
  • Symptoms of withdrawal appear when the drug is not be used

If you have any of these issues, overmedication may be the cause.

How You Can Prevent the Dangers of Being Overmedicated

Being overmedicated is incredibly dangerous. A bad drug interaction can turn fatal in an instant and many other possible dangers may arise, such as drug dependence and addiction. To prevent the many problems associated with being overmedicated, follow these precautions:

  • Talk with your doctor and pharmacist before taking any new drug.
  • If you are seeing more than one doctor, keep each informed of all medication you are taking whether they be over-the-counter, herbal supplements, prescription or even illegal narcotics.
  • Make a list of all your medications and dosage amounts to stay organized. Take this list with you when you go to the doctors or pharmacy.
  • Ask your doctor for a comprehensive medication review to determine if you are in danger of becoming overmedicated, and if any current medical condition makes you prone to overmedication or dangerous drug interaction.
  • Know about your healthcare to avoid a medication error, and make certain you know how to take your medications properly. Prevent a dangerous drug interaction or major health problem by knowing how to use your medications.

If you take these steps you can help prevent overmedication.

Overmedicated and Need Help for Drug Dependence or Addiction

Do you believe you are overmedicated and suffer from drug dependence or addiction? If so, please call our toll-free helpline. Our addiction counselors are available 24 hours a day to talk with you about recovery services for drug abuse, dependence and addiction. They can answer your questions, offer assessment services and provide you with all the information you need to begin treatment. We are here to help you find solutions that meet your individual needs. Whether you still have questions or are ready to begin treatment now, we can help, so call us today.

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]]> http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/how-do-i-know-if-i-am-overmedicated/feed/ 0 Help for Co-Occurring Intimacy Disorders and Addiction http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/help-for-co-occurring-intimacy-disorders-and-addiction/ http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/help-for-co-occurring-intimacy-disorders-and-addiction/#comments Tue, 02 Oct 2012 21:46:02 +0000 frn-admin http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/?p=1280 Addiction is caused by all kinds of things. Sometimes it is brought on by a tragedy, a poor childhood or a traumatic event. However, more often than not, addiction is sparked through mental illness and/or emotional issues. In many cases, people who are battling co-occurring intimacy disorders find themselves facing a downward slope of addiction, [...]

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]]> Addiction is caused by all kinds of things. Sometimes it is brought on by a tragedy, a poor childhood or a traumatic event. However, more often than not, addiction is sparked through mental illness and/or emotional issues. In many cases, people who are battling co-occurring intimacy disorders find themselves facing a downward slope of addiction, as they try to find ways to cope with their disorder(s).

Types of Intimacy Disorders

It is human nature to connect with other people on different levels and in different ways. This is something that plays a crucial part in the well-being and health of a person, as emotional, intellectual, spiritual and sexual connections are what provide substance in one’s life. However, some people struggle with these connections and it can be incredibly difficult for them. Included in the following are the ways in which individuals are affected by each intimacy disorder:

  • Emotional: Emotional intimacy is a serious disorder, as the inability to connect emotionally with others can be a major hindrance to the development and maintenance of relationships of all kinds.
  • Intellectual: An intellectual intimacy disorder can be just as damaging to a person, as it is difficult for him or her to share their knowledge, ask to learn more or engage in a learning environment.
  • Spiritual: Not everyone is going to feel the same way about spirituality. Some individuals do not even recognize a sense of spirituality in their lives. However, those who do (or try to understand) while struggling with an intimacy disorder can be left feeling unsupported and lost, as they cannot connect to this part of their life.
  • Sexual: Sexual intimacy disorders can range from being very minor to completely crippling for some people. For instance, some individuals with this disorder cannot control their sexual urges, have difficulty engaging in sexual behavior or have a love-hate relationship with sex.

When someone is battling with any of these disorders, feeling like they are missing out on certain parts of life, it can be extremely painful and even unbearable. This pain may lead them to look to other things to ease the difficulty, such as drugs or alcohol. As the abused substance becomes a daily staple in that person’s life, it can seem impossible to go without it.

How to Treat Intimacy Disorders and Addiction

Many people have issues with intimacy disorders and addiction at the same time. Trying to solve these problems alone can feel like being up a river without a paddle. The best and most effective way to find help and get treatment for a co-occurring intimacy and addiction problem is to do it while under supervision by professionals. Professional help can assist your disorder and addiction in the following ways:

  • Dissecting problems: Through the help of a therapist, a person can begin to uncover what is fueling their addiction, and what it is about their disorder that makes them feel a certain way.
  • Developing self-esteem: Learning how to rebuild self-esteem and self-worth is one of the most important steps in treatment, as it lays the groundwork for what is to come of a sober, treated life.
  • Commitment: Being committed to getting sober and getting the right kind of treatment for an intimacy disorder is the key to treatment, as a person can only get better when they want to be.

Do You Need Help with a Co-occurring Intimacy Disorder and Addiction?

Call our 24-hour, toll-free helpline right now to get the help you deserve. Do not wait. Call us today.

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]]> http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/help-for-co-occurring-intimacy-disorders-and-addiction/feed/ 0 Dangers of Getting Prescription Drugs from Family Members http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/dangers-of-getting-prescription-drugs-from-family-members/ http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/dangers-of-getting-prescription-drugs-from-family-members/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 21:46:18 +0000 frn-admin http://www.addictionhelpcenter.com/?p=1276 Using someone else’s prescription for any reason is dangerous. Prescription drugs are controlled substances for good reason and are available only from a prescribing doctor. Hazards of Using Someone Else’s Prescription It may seem like a simple solution to use leftover drugs from someone else’s prescription. For instance, if you have pain from a minor [...]

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]]> Using someone else’s prescription for any reason is dangerous. Prescription drugs are controlled substances for good reason and are available only from a prescribing doctor.

Hazards of Using Someone Else’s Prescription

It may seem like a simple solution to use leftover drugs from someone else’s prescription. For instance, if you have pain from a minor injury that does not need medical attention, you may be tempted to take a couple of oxycodone tablets left over from a family member’s treatment. If you experience temporary anxiety or insomnia, you might be tempted to take a few Ambien or Xanax pills from around your house rather than visiting the doctor yourself. After all, they treat the same condition, so what’s the difference?

As harmless as it may seem, this can be a dangerous practice for many reasons. For one thing, doctors prescribe a particular medication at a specific dose based on a number of considerations, including the medical condition, the age, weight and overall health of the patient, history of addiction or reaction to medications and the possibility of interaction with any other drugs the patient is on. The drug and dosage directions that are right for a family member may not be right for you, and could lead to overdose or a dangerous reaction. Some drugs may also be contraindicated for certain medical conditions. Finally, drugs that are expired may have changed their chemical makeup, especially if they have been stored for a long period of time near heat or steam. This could produce unpredictable effects.

Dangers of Abusing Someone Else’s Prescription

If you abuse prescription drugs recreationally, it may be tempting to use a family member’s prescription as a source of supply. The dangers associated with this practice are the same as those of abusing drugs in general. Most prescription drugs are very powerful and when abused can cause a host of health problems, including death from overdose.

If you are not an addict, unused prescription drugs may tempt you to experiment. This might seem like harmless fun, but recreational use can quickly create a debilitating addiction. Recreational users typically use larger than recommended doses, which increases the chances of becoming dependent and causes the most extreme withdrawal symptoms. Of course, if you are stealing a family member’s prescriptions you may already be addicted. Addiction to prescription drugs is a dangerous and destructive condition with an infinite number of possible consequences.

Questions about Prescription Drugs

If you have any questions about prescription drugs, drug interactions, addiction or treatment, or if you would like help finding treatment for prescription drug addiction, call us. Our helpline is toll free and we are available 24 hours a day.

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