Understanding the Stigmas Around MAT

While it has proven itself to be one of the most effective forms of treating addiction, especially opioid dependency, there are still stigmas around MAT (medication-assisted treatment) programs. The vast majority of these stigmas spring from misinformation, bias, and lack of education about how medication-assisted treatment works. Fortunately, individuals in the medical and recovery community,…

The Dangers Of Xanax

The dangers of Xanax are not as obvious as they would be with other drugs. Patients are prescribed Xanax when they have anxiety or panic disorders, and that makes the drug look a little bit innocent. It should be noted, that people you know who are using Xanax are not automatically going to become addicts.…

12 Step Approach to Recovery

The 12 step approach to recovery is a concept that has been around for over 70 years. Addiction treatment centers in California regularly adopt the 12 steps because of how effective they have been in helping individuals recover from addiction. Each treatment center has its own way of integrating the 12 steps into its programs.…

Mental Illness and Substance Abuse in Teens

Although drug abuse has declined in the past 20 years (1), teens are using certain substances, like marijuana, more than ever. Mental illness and substance abuse in teens requires treatment, as co-occurring disorders can make it difficult to live a healthy and normal life. While all teens and adolescents experience anxiety, stress, and sadness, some…

Understanding Psychological Dependence

While those who have substance use disorders (SUD) experiencing physical processes that affect their behavior, there is also a psychological component. That means that an addicted individual is mentally dependent on a substance. Psychological dependence describes an individual’s emotional and mental processes regarding SUD or drug addiction. The Signs of Psychological Dependence When you define…