Substance Abuse and Addiction

The problem of addiction (loss of control over the use of a psychoactive drug or the participation in an activity, such as gambling) is very costly. Among brain disorders, addiction incurs more expense than Alzheimer's disease, stroke,... Full Answer

Solid estimates of how many people struggle with addiction (loss of control over the use of a psychoactive drug or the participation in an activity, such as gambling) are hard to come by. According to one nationwide estimate, roughly 28% of... Full Answer

Substance dependence is a condition characterized by repetitive and often excessive substance use, impaired control over substance use, continued use of substances despite adverse consequences, and withdrawal symptoms that emerge when the substance use... Full Answer

Physical dependence is the process through which the body becomes accustomed to a psychoactive drug or rewarding behavior and "misses it" if it's taken away. People with physical dependence who stop or cut down the use of their substance or... Full Answer

Harm reduction therapy is a treatment strategy aimed at minimizing the harm associated with an object of addiction. This strategic approach helps people learn how to limit the degree to which they use their object of addiction, or limit the risks... Full Answer

Expression hopping is a common phenomenon whereby people jump to a different expression of addiction (the specific way in which a person manifests addiction). For example, people with heroin addiction might transition to alcohol addiction.... Full Answer

If someone you love has a problem with addiction, there are some things you can do to help: Take care of yourself. Seek out the people and resources that can support you. Keep in mind that you are not alone, and try to remain hopeful. Practical... Full Answer

Bear in mind that interventions can be painful and do not always work. In fact, interventions can backfire, because they can make people with addiction feel alienated from their support system. This can further distance them from the help they... Full Answer

Because an intervention is a complicated and delicate process, friends and family members should not try it on their own. Seek the help of a professional—such as a doctor, therapist, or member of the clergy—who has experience with the process. Full Answer

If a family member has an addiction problem, you may get the information and support you need from groups like Al-Anon (an AA spin-off for the family and friends of alcoholics) or Alateen (an offshoot of Al-Anon geared toward teenagers and... Full Answer