Author name: Dave Cundiff, MD, MPH, FASAM

Most people encounter stress at least occasionally. Some, however, face chronic stress, which can lead to drug or alcohol abuse. During Stress Awareness Month, individuals are encouraged to seek treatment before they develop a more serious issue such as drug dependency. Here is some information about this annual event, including how you can get involved.

If you or a loved one is seeking help for addiction, you may be surprised at how many options are available. Programs offer different specialties, treatment philosophies, and length of stays. When focusing on finding the best addiction treatment centers in Salem, Oregon, it’s helpful to do preliminary research. It can also be beneficial to

When you are in the process of finding a rehab facility, you’ll notice that each program has unique offerings. Once you or a loved one has decided to enter treatment, it’s important to find a provider that best meets your needs. Each treatment center offers different services, including varying lengths of stay. Some rehabs offer

The first step in combating any problem involves raising awareness. Accordingly, we observe Alcohol Awareness Month each year in April. What happens during this month, and why should you participate? Here are some facts you need to know. Alcohol Awareness Month is in April The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) educates people

Drugs classifications fall into four main categories based on how they affect the body. For instance, opioids block nerve receptors to erase pain — meanwhile, depressants, like alcohol, slow brain activity for calmness. In contrast, stimulants speed up the brain for extreme energy. Given that, many wonder is cocaine a stimulant, or another drug type? Cocaine

Dextromethorphan, better known as DXM, is an active ingredient in cough medicines. Namely, it’s found in popular cough pills and syrups like Robitussin, Nyquil, and Theraflu. Of course, DXM is intended to soothe your throat and stop coughing. However, the medicine cabinet staple is increasingly being misused. Further, some drink DXM and alcohol together for

Presently, 40 million U.S. adults suffer from anxiety disorders. Frequently, doctors prescribe Xanax to control the overwhelming fear. However, Ativan is another oral sedative that stops panic. Though both are classified as benzodiazepines, the drugs have some unique traits. Below, the similarities and differences between Ativan vs Xanax are spelled out simply. How Ativan and

Clinical depression is a serious condition that causes you to always feel sad or apathetic. As a result, the lasting sorrow makes getting out of bed and living difficult. Given that, your doctor has likely prescribed pills called antidepressants. Presently, the CDC reports that 11 percent of teens and adults take antidepressants. If you’re one

The 12 Step model is one of the most well-known recovery support programs. It is commonly used in meetings around the country where people strive to remain sober. They also realize that working the 12 steps adds meaning to their commitment. This program gained its popularity with alcohol addiction support groups. It continues to work

Used together, alcohol and Adderall are some of the newest party drugs. The alcohol is the depressant, and the Adderall is the stimulant. People believe if you take the two drugs together, they will cancel each other out and let you party longer. No, they don’t cancel each other out, but they will keep you