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<title>Addiction Information and Resources | Addiction Recovery | Internet Addiction</title>
<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/article.xml</link>
<description><![CDATA[Addiction Articles and Information  - Useful Articles related to Addiction: Addiction Recovery, Internet Addiction and much more.]]></description>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 19:20:21 -0400</pubDate>
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<language>en</language><item>
	<title>The Real Benefits of Quitting Smoking</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Smoking-Addiction/The-Real-Benefits-of-Quitting-Smoking.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 19:20:21 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Smoking Addiction</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Smoking-Addiction/The-Real-Benefits-of-Quitting-Smoking.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[There are many health benefits to be gained from quitting smoking. The human body is a remarkable piece of engineering which can recover (to a certain extent) from years of smoking in a very short period of time. If you&rsquo;re a smoker, you undoubtedly know this. The health benefits of quitting smoking are widely available for view on just about any anti-smoking site. What these sites often fail to cover is the real, practical benefits of quitting smoking. As a former smoker myself, I shall explain in this article how a cessation of smoking pragmatically improved my life.
The major problem that quitting smoking fixed up for me was my awful habit of procrastinating. For years I had become increasingly idle, and I almost solely place the finger of guilt at my former smoking habit. Taking in 40 cigarettes a day for 10 years clogged up my lungs to the extent that I felt like I permanently lived with a plastic bag over my head. Being always short of breath and having little muscle power, I would find myself lazing around more than I would being proactive.
After packing in cigarettes, my lung capabilities returned and my energy levels soared. As a result, I was able to exercise strenuously again, getting into the best shape of my life. To this degree, I saw a massive lift in my self-esteem and confidence. This domino effect continued, as the self-esteem and confidence saw me winning the attention of the opposite sex, as well as improving my networking capabilities with colleagues in my work industry.
Then there was the financial gain. One of the major benefits of quitting smoking is actually seeing money appear in your wallet again. I made a vow that I would set aside &pound;9 (approximately the cost of two packets of cigarettes) in my desk drawer for every day I managed to stay a non-smoker. I was quite astonished to see how quickly the cash piled up, and by the end of the month I was nearly &pound;300 better off. After two months of not smoking, I had enough saved money for a holiday.
Finally, there was the sheer liberation from the fear that cigarettes generated. I no longer felt panicked about being down to my last couple of cigarettes. I ceased to be anxious in bars without a packet with me. I didn&rsquo;t have to travel to the all-night store at 2am in heavy rain to get a fresh pack for consumption in the morning. This experience was like having a 200 lbs weight lifted from my shoulders, and is easily one of the greatest benefits of quitting smoking.
In conclusion, you should really look at what you can gain on a practical level by quitting cigarettes. There is too much emphasis on the health angle and, sadly, health alone is not enough of a motivator to many smokers who have already decided to take that gamble. Quitting smoking gives you release, a liberation and the restoration of many fabulous physical and mental facilities. Ask how these benefits can directly affect your quality of life, and then make the firm decision to take action to quit.]]></description>
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<item>
	<title>Heroin Addiction</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Addictions/Heroin-Addiction.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 19:19:48 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Addictions</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Addictions/Heroin-Addiction.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[Heroin is a highly addictive, illegal drug. It among the most abused and fastest acting of the opiates (opiates, also called narcotics, are a family of drugs which are used in the medical profession to relieve pain, but are also highly abused due to this very property). It induces a feeling of intense ecstasy and brings on this effect with rapidity, making it the drug of choice among recreational users seeking a quick &lsquo;rush&rsquo;.
It is more often than not injected. Alternatively, it can also be sniffed, snorted or smoked.
Direct short and long term effects of heroin use Addiction itself is one of the most devastating side effects of heroin. It is especially addictive because it finds its way into the brain extremely rapidly. It causes neurochemical and molecular changes in the brain. Soon after taking the drug, users may feel drowsy for a few hours. Mental function becomes hazy due to its effect on the central nervous system. Heroin addicts tend to expend most of their energies in procuring and using the drug; it becomes their life&rsquo;s foremost motive. Heroin literally alters their brains.
The body gradually becomes used to the presence of the drug, and withdrawal symptoms occur if drug consumption is abruptly terminated. The symptoms manifest as restlessness, pain in muscles and bones, insomnia, diarrhea and vomiting, to name a few. Mostly, peak withdrawal symptoms are seen 24 to 48 hours after the last dose and fade out after a week or so. However, people have been known to persistently display withdrawal symptoms for several months.
Consistent heroin abuse has several debilitating medical consequences, some of which include collapsed veins, liver and kidney disease, respiratory problems (and sometimes a fatal collapse of the respiratory system), boils, blood clots which clog blood vessels leading to the lungs, liver, kidneys or brain. Heroin abusers often exchange used syringes, exposing themselves to a heightened risk of contracting infections such as HIV and Hepatitis B and C.
During pregnancy, heroin use can cause severe complications such as miscarriage and premature delivery. Babies of addicted mothers are more likely to die of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) than their counterparts whose mothers are not addicts.]]></description>
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<item>
	<title>Addictions - Tobacco</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Smoking-Addiction/Addictions---Tobacco.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 19:18:57 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Smoking Addiction</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Smoking-Addiction/Addictions---Tobacco.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[While there is no such thing as a good addiction, probably one of the worst addictions is the one that people have to tobacco.
Tobacco is a slightly different kind of addiction in comparison to addictions like gambling and sex, which are addictions that arise almost from the addictive personality itself. Tobacco is a little different because the substance itself is addictive.
Most people who take up smoking, especially if they live in a tough neighborhood, do so because it is the cool thing to do. Peer pressure is a terrible thing in this world, especially if you're a youth. The last thing you want is to have your peers laugh at you, call you chicken or whatever daily abuse they dish out when you tell them no thank you to the cigarette they hand you. So in order to not be teased into oblivion you take the cigarette and take your first puff.
Unfortunately, the hacking that follows, which is your body's way of telling you that it doesn't want that smoke in its lungs, is ignored by the youth. Heaven forbid he should be laughed at for being a sissy.
It takes time, but eventually the body does become accustomed to the smoke itself. The coughing isn't as severe and eventually all but stops. Pretty soon, the youth is able to smoke a whole cigarette without any outward signs that the cigarette itself is doing him any harm.
It is at this point that the act of smoking becomes addictive, not because of the smoke itself, but because of the substance in it called nicotine. Nicotine is a drug, and like any other drug, if taken for long enough the body begins to crave it. Suddenly the person finds that if he doesn't have a cigarette he begins to feel nervous. Now it's not simply a matter of getting a hold of a smoke to impress his friends but to satisfy a craving that won't go away.
For some people this addiction can become so bad that they become what are called chain smokers. These are people who have to have a cigarette at all times. These chain smokers can go through four or five packs of cigarettes a day easily.
There is no need to go into the harm that this kind of smoking does to the body. In the years since cigarettes reached the peak of their popularity, enough research has been done to prove beyond any doubt that smoking causes cancer, respiratory disease and heart problems. In a word, smoking kills. Further proof that smoking is indeed an addiction, as even with this knowledge of what cigarette smoking can do to you, these people find it almost impossible to stop.
There have since been many ways to try to deal with this terrible addiction, including patches, gum and of course smokers anonymous. While some people are successful in ending their smoking habit, many are never able to give it up completely.
Sadly, the best way to stop is to never start in the first place.]]></description>
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	<title>You Can Stop Your Gambling Addiction</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Gambling-Addiction/You-Can-Stop-Your-Gambling-Addiction.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 19:18:35 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Gambling Addiction</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Gambling-Addiction/You-Can-Stop-Your-Gambling-Addiction.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[Compulsive gamblers of all ages continually fear the day they know they will have to stop gambling. Most of them realize this when their personal resources are dwindling with each passing day.
I remember the day I had ten thousand dollars still left in my savings account. The next day I had five thousand and a week later I had overdrawn my account by $150.00. Even though I realized I had a problem, I couldn&rsquo;t stop my addiction. I wanted to gamble and win back all the money I had lost. I knew that I should stop, but I refused to and the end result was devastating for me. I had no money and no where to go. I still had my job and my dream of winning big someday. I thought I could never beat this gambling addiction, so I figured why bother. Then I realized I wanted to change my life for the better. I realized I had to take one day at a time. I needed to slow my thoughts down and focus on only one thing at a time. I learned to think about today and did not worry about tomorrow.
When I woke up each morning usually not too grumpy I made the decision of whether or not I was going to gamble today. I gave myself the choice and at the same time I thought about all the destructive behavior. This morning I made the choice I did not want to gamble today. I realized if I told myself I could never gamble again I was adding too much stress to my life.
Compulsive gamblers compound their stress when telling themselves they will never gamble again. Life is too short and it&rsquo;s time to live to the fullest.
Once compulsive gamblers realize that they are good people and they deserve the best in life their recovery seems to accelerate.
Mr. Howard Keith has an extensive background in dealing with compulsive gamblers and relatives and friends of gamblers. Mr. Keith believes there are many alternatives to aid in the recovery of a gambling addiction.
For more information on gambling addiction and stop gambling you can check out
Help Stop Gambling Addiction Resources To Stop Compulsive Gambling http://www.istoppedgambling.com/&nbsp;]]></description>
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<item>
	<title>Addictions - Alcohol</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Alcohol-Addiction/Addictions---Alcohol.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 19:18:09 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Alcohol Addiction</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Alcohol-Addiction/Addictions---Alcohol.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[Alcohol is one of those addictions that unfortunately starts off very early in a person's life. Most people who become addicted to alcohol have addictive personalities to begin with but usually it takes more than that to send them over the edge to a full blown drinking problem. We're going to examine some of the factors involved in turning someone into an alcoholic.
Most people who start drinking begin to do so when they are very young, even under legal drinking age. This happens when older friends sneak alcoholic beverages into parties. At first the youth will just have a couple of drinks. After the party is over this person may not drink again for months until the next party. Then, after a while, they begin to realize that when they are drinking they feel pretty good. They usually haven't begun heavy drinking yet, but when legal age hits they may hit a bar on the weekends as a regular routine. Still, they aren't even close to becoming an alcoholic.
Unfortunately, the real problems don't begin until things either go wrong or the person is put into a situation where they are around alcohol a lot. Let's examine the latter first.
A common problem as a youth is that many young people love the idea of playing in a band. We've all had fantasies of being in a big rock band. Many of these kids actually pursue this dream. Unfortunately, most bands start off playing at bars. That is pretty much the norm. Most bands will play as much as three times a week. This places them in the presence of alcohol on a regular basis. If you're playing in a band then you know that you play multiple sets in a night and the only thing to do in between sets is to sit around and drink, especially if you're trying to impress the groupies. After doing this routine for a while it is very easy to get into the habit of drinking constantly. It doesn't happen overnight but in many cases it does happen. The only difference between early on and later drinking is that the music has stopped, unless you're the Rolling Stones, but the drinking hasn't.
The even more tragic onset of alcoholic behavior is when a person's life takes a drastic turn for the worse. Usually this kid who has already started drinking socially will have something terrible happen like the loss of a parent. Maybe the kid had a bad romantic breakup. The number of terrible things that we are subjected to in life are too numerous to get into and it only takes one event to put a social drinker with an addictive personality over the edge into full blown alcoholism. For these people, drinking is an escape. They drink because they feel bad and want to feel good again.
As the late John Spencer, a recovering alcoholic at the time said on a great episode of West Wing, &quot;I don't understand people who take only one drink. I don't understand people who can leave a half a glass of scotch. How can you only take one drink? How can you not want to feel like this longer?&quot;
Of course there are those people who are alcoholics because their mother or father was an alcoholic. Yes, alcoholism is inherited.
This is one of the worst addictions there is and can only be treated with professional help such as AA. There is hope for an alcoholic.]]></description>
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<item>
	<title>Gambling Addiction: Signs and Severity</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Gambling-Addiction/Gambling-Addiction--Signs-and-Severity.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 19:17:47 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Gambling Addiction</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Gambling-Addiction/Gambling-Addiction--Signs-and-Severity.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[Gambling addictions are believed to be rising due to the increasing opportunities to gamble and the glamorizing of games such as poker and roulette on television. There are more casinos, sports betting and slot machines than ever before. There is also telephone betting and more gambling on the internet. However, gambling can become a serious problem and often leads to financial and relationship ruin. In some cases, attempted suicide is not unheard of.
Pathological gambling is more common among men, some ethnic groups and people in the lower socioeconomic groups. Gambling addicts are also more likely to smoke cigarettes and abuse alcohol compared to non-problem gamblers, which compounds the problem. Gambling addiction is officially defined by recognized groups as 'a loss of control over gambling' and a driving need for the &quot;rush&quot; gambling provides. Compulsive gambling is truly an addiction which is characterized by an endless need to gamble more often, to bet more and more money and the inability to stop just to avoid feeling unhappy. This can exhibit itself in any behavior which ruins your life either physically, mentally, emotionally or financially. New studies have shown rates of suicide attempts among pathological gamblers have jumped drastically from 17 to 24 percent.
There is much denial over gambling addiction and most gamblers often refuse to seek professional help. Doctors are now encouraged to ask about gambling behaviors in their patients who they think are at risk. The most common signs of a gambling addiction are: always thinking about and preparing for gambling sessions, trying to keep playing higher stakes just to &quot;win back&quot; lost money, gambling during work hours and avoiding home, using gambling to escape from stress, getting into a large amount of debt and then lying to borrow money even to the extend of using illegal means to finance their habit. They often neglect their family and other responsibilities and favor betting over investing quality time in their relationships.
Gamblers are generally classified into two groups: action gamblers and escape gamblers.
Action gamblers are usually males who started the habit in their teen years. These men are usually very intelligent and have high IQ's. Their usual outlets are betting games that requiring skill and cunning like black jack, poker, sports betting and even stock trading. To them, gambling gives a sense of euphoria like a drug induced high. Generally, action gamblers are very ego driven and controlling. They are also quite narcissistic and almost always in need of some sort of approval and confirmation, like winning a big pot of money.
Three-fourths of escape gamblers are usually women. The gambling addiction usually starts when they reach 30 or older. They are usually codependent and they choose games requiring little or no skill like slots, bingo, or the lottery. These women gamblers usually appear numb or in a trance when engaged in gambling. They feel free of emotional and physical pain when gambling because they are conflict avoiders and often have suffered verbal and physical abuse.
There is hope, however. Gambling addictions can be broken and for many, the most successful treatment programmes involve both individual professional counseling and group therapy. It involves educating the gambler and their family, intensive individual therapy, group therapy, thorough relapse prevention and practical budget planning. For women, complete abstinence and a strong intervention usually delivers a high success rate of breaking the addiction.]]></description>
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<item>
	<title>Four Steps of the Gambling Addiction</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Gambling-Addiction/Four-Steps-of-the-Gambling-Addiction.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 19:17:24 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Gambling Addiction</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Gambling-Addiction/Four-Steps-of-the-Gambling-Addiction.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[Gambling addictions are no longer unheard of - they are believed to be rising now more than ever due to the increasing opportunities to gamble. There are more casinos, sports betting and slot machines than ever before. If you stay away from casinos, there is also telephone betting and even more gambling on the internet. It is truly an addiction that can be difficult to conquer.
Gambling can and does become a serious problem. It often leads to financial and relationship ruin in most, if not all, cases. For some, attempted suicide after losing a bet is not unheard of. Pathological gambling is much more common among men than in women, though the number female gambling addicts are on the rise as well. Gambling addicts are also more likely to smoke cigarettes and abuse alcohol compared to recreational gamblers and this can compound the problem. There are four phases that can help you realize a gambling addiction: the winning phase, the chasing phase, the desperation phase and hopelessness.
1. The Winning Phase - This is a short and sometimes non-existent phase that associates escape from problems with winning several small or large bets. It can give a temporary boost in self-esteem and a sense of empowerment. The excitement and titillation often felt at the casino is used to charge up the lives of those predisposed by some conditions and loneliness.
2. The Chasing Phase - The addiction starts to unravel when a number of losses are attributed to poor luck. Somehow, no win is ever enough. More often, the person prefers to gamble alone. They start to hide their gambling because the losses have put them in a tight financial spot. The addict begins to ignore his or her family and then becomes irritable when not gambling. Slowly, gambling and betting become the sole coping mechanism to the larger issues in life. The addict can gamble until he is insolvent and can become unapproachable about the problem. This phase can last a number of years, with the addict progressively placing larger bets on longer odds. More often than not, the addict starts borrowing money to support the habit and his family life is gone.
3. The Desperation Phase The addict behaves there is little, if no time for anything else and nothing else in life matters except the thrill of betting more. He resorts to lying, manipulation and complete denial of criticism. He usually externalizes the blame and does not hold himself accountable for his desperate state. Sometimes he can exhibit acute anger at others who deny that his gambling is just &quot;normal&quot;. Usually, his finances are a wreck and bills remain unpaid. The family by now knows the addiction but remains suffering and powerless. Sometimes the gambler contemplates suicide and sees death as the only exit strategy. This is the point where most remediation occurs but relapses from initial recovery programs can be frequent. Unfortunately, there are many who undertake the recovery program but keep gambling anyway.
4. The Hopeless Phase This phase goes beyond &quot;bad enough&quot; and usually involves clinical depression, suicide, or criminal actions that often land them in jail.]]></description>
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<item>
	<title>Gambling Addiction: Recognize, Realize and Repair</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Gambling-Addiction/Gambling-Addiction--Recognize--Realize-and-Repair.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 19:17:02 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Gambling Addiction</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Gambling-Addiction/Gambling-Addiction--Recognize--Realize-and-Repair.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[Though poker, sports betting, and even a game of blackjack can be a lot of fun, there are situations in which it is important to see if someone has developed a problem. Gambling addiction is terrible and can ruin a person&rsquo;s life. That is why you should take the time to read trough some of what gambling addiction is about, and how to recognize when it is time to get someone close to you help.
First of all, watch for warning signs from those close to you. For instance, on sign of gambling addition is neglect of family in order to gamble. This can result in divorce and loss of children, which only makes things worse. As the addict becomes lonely and isolated, he or she will actually turn to the gambling more to fill that void in life.
Secondly, look for loss of cash flow for important items because of gambling debt. Gamblers will end up borrowing and borrowing which ends in them not taking care of themselves and falling deeper into debt by the day. Credit cards may be maxed out and utility bills may go unpaid as a result of the addiction.
Thirdly, motivation can go away with gambling addiction. Everything the gambler is into is about poker or the next bet and they can end up losing touch with reality because of that. From there it is motivation that goes away which makes it all the harder to quit. If the addict doesn&rsquo;t want to quit, it is hard for them to get better.
Look for those who miss days at work because of gambling. If they are staying home to gamble on the computer or sneaking off to the casino to lose money when he or she could be earning it at work instead, then it is time to think about the fact that that person may have a problem. That is when interfering is the best thing you can do.
Anti-social behavior, which is partly how families are lost, can also come up as a symptom of those who have a gambling problem. They withdraw and are always looking nervous. The withdraw from social situations just allows the person to fill that void with gambling, whether it be poker, sports, or even bingo.
Gambling addiction is serious not matter who you are. It can cause you to become anti-social, lonely, and cause you to lose your job if you don&rsquo;t get the problem taken care of. In addition, you owe it to your friends to point out when you see them displaying symptoms as well. So, keep in mind the symptoms above and you may one day help one of your friends that is in trouble. Addiction can be crippling, but a surefire cure are people who care.]]></description>
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<item>
	<title>Gambling Addiction</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Gambling-Addiction/Gambling-Addiction.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 19:16:31 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Gambling Addiction</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Gambling-Addiction/Gambling-Addiction.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[For most people, gambling is simply a way to make sporting events more interesting, or a part of an annual trip to Las Vegas. However, for some, gambling can be a dangerous addiction that ruins marriages, ends careers, and can result in bankruptcy and even suicide. Gambling addictions have become so prevalent that the American Psychiatric Association now identifies &ldquo;gambling addiction&rdquo; as a psychiatric disorder afflicting one to three percent of American adults. With the growing popularity of online gambling sites, these estimates may continue to rise.
So what is the allure of online gambling? Well, the most obvious answer is convenience. Gamblers no longer need to travel to Vegas or Atlantic City, as the Internet provides access to gambling 24 hours a day, seven days a week with complete anonymity. Further, online gambling occurs without the actual or immediate exchange of money. It&rsquo;s easy for participants to loose site of the fact that they are actually playing for real cash! Other attractions include the ease with which people can set up accounts and the escape associated with spending hours playing games online.
So when does an interest in gambling reach the point of addiction? There are generally three criteria used to diagnose an addiction of any kind. First and foremost is that the word &ldquo;addiction&rdquo; implies a loss of behavioral control. Those who are addicted simply cannot control their gambling. What may have started as a quick game of poker may turn into an all day &ndash; all night gambling bender. Second, addicted gamblers often develop a &ldquo;tolerance&rdquo; to gambling in the same way an alcoholic becomes increasingly tolerant to alcohol. Addicted gamblers will require higher and higher stakes in order to get the high that they desire. Finally, the extent to which a behavior interferes with one&rsquo;s functioning is often used as criteria for diagnosing addiction. In the case of an addicted gambler, he or she may empty bank accounts, sell valued heirlooms, or build up massive amounts of dept. In extreme cases, an addicted gambler may steal from friends and family members to finance their addiction or even become clinically depressed following a devastating loss.
So how do you know if you have a gambling problem? Gambling anonymous suggests asking yourself questions such as these:
1. Have you repeatedly missed work or school because of gambling?
2. Have you ever felt guilty as result of your gambling?
3. Have you ever gambled in order to acquire money for bills or debts?
4. Have you ever gambled until you were completely out of money?
5. Have you ever gambled for longer periods than you had planned?
6. Have you ever gambled with more money than you had originally planned?
7. Have you ever considered suicide because of gambling?
This list is not exhaustive, but if you answer &ldquo;yes&rdquo; to any of the above questions, you may wish to speak with a professional counselor about your gambling.
Thankfully, a variety of resources exist to help those suffering from a gambling addiction. Twelve step programs such as those used in alcoholics anonymous and narcotics anonymous exist for those whose gambling has gotten out of control. Further, support groups such as Gam-Anon are easily accessible and are designed to assist those with a family member suffering from a gambling addiction.]]></description>
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<item>
	<title>Drug Abuse Treatments</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Addictions/Drug-Abuse-Treatments.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 18:28:32 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Addictions</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Addictions/Drug-Abuse-Treatments.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[As treatment of drug abuse should suit the specific needs of the individual concerned, there is no one treatment that can be used in all cases. The choice of treatment also depends on which drug is being abused. Psychological therapies, such as behavior therapy, and medication to help the individual with withdrawal symptoms are components of the treatment program. The areas that may deserve special attention during treatment include detoxification, i.e., the process of stopping the drug while coping with physical addiction, relapse prevention and long-term rehabilitation.
Behavior therapies generally include counseling, psychotherapy, support groups, or family therapy. Medications assist in suppressing the withdrawal symptoms and drug craving, and in blocking the effects of drugs.
Moreover, studies reveal that treatment for heroin addiction using methadone at an adequate dosage level combined with behavior therapy successfully reduces death rates and many health problems arising out of heroin abuse. Acupuncture has been found to be effective in treating the cravings that accompany cocaine withdrawal. The procedure is now being applied on pregnant drug abusers to improve the health of their babies.
Nonresidential programs serve the largest number of drug abusers. Among residential facilities are hospitals, group homes, halfway houses, and therapeutic communities, such as Phoenix House and Daytop Village, where most of the daily activities are treatment-related. Programs like Al-Anon, CoAnon, and Alateen, 12-step programs for family and friends of drug abusers, help them to break out of codependent cycles.
For every person undergoing drug treatment there are an estimated three or four people in dire need of it. There are many who try to get treatment, especially from public facilities, but are put off by waits of over a month to get in. Assessment of the effectiveness of treatment is difficult because of the chronic nature of drug abuse and alcoholism. And more so because the disease is generally made more complicated by personal, social, and legal factors.]]></description>
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	<title>Teen Drug Abuse</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Addictions/Teen-Drug-Abuse.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 18:28:11 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Addictions</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Addictions/Teen-Drug-Abuse.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[Drug abuse by teenagers is very common, which can lead to disastrous consequences in the future. A large proportion of deaths in people between 15 and 24 are reportedly connected in some way or the other to drug or alcohol abuse. Such abuse also leads to violent criminal acts, such as assault, murder or rape. Some young people also take drugs to overcome depression and anxiety.
If a young member of your family suddenly starts behaving in a aberrant manner or tries to keep aloof from other family members, you have some reasons to be suspicious. Physical signs like red eyes, nagging cough, and changes in eating and sleeping habits should also serve as warning signals.
A teenager with a family history of drug abuse and a lack of social skills can move rapidly from the level of experimentation to grave abuse or dependency. Some other teenagers, who have no family history of such abuse, may also reach the level of utter dependency. Although any prediction is almost impossible, teenagers with a family history of alcohol or drug abuse should especially abstain and refrain from experimenting.
The user's preoccupation with drugs, plus its effects on mood and performance, can lead to poor performance in schools, colleges or workplaces, resulting in dismissal. A child&rsquo;s drug abuse can devastate parents and other family members, and ruin family life. According to the National Survey of American Attitudes on Substance Abuse conducted by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University, teens and their parents view drugs as their biggest concern.
The effects of different types of drugs on teenagers include irritability, insomnia, convulsions, anxiety, paranoia, violent behavior, memory loss, learning problems, increased heart rate, lethargy, panic attacks, symptoms of chronic bronchitis, daily coughs and phlegm, more frequent chest colds, muscle tension, teeth clenching, dehydration, hypothermia, brain damage, and death.]]></description>
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	<title>Morphine: A Pain Medicine and Addiction</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Addictions/Morphine--A-Pain-Medicine-and-Addiction.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 18:27:17 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Addictions</category>
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	<description><![CDATA[Morphine is an opioid analgesic and is used to treat moderate to severe pain. Morphine pain medicine works by affecting how the body senses pain. While effective in treating pain, morphine can be quite addictive and can be potentially abused should a dependency develop.
Morphine is most often taken orally through a pill, capsule or liquid. It is also taken rectally by means on a suppository or intravenously. The latter is the preferred method of morphine addicts. When prescribed, morphine is called by many different names and brands including Astramorph, Avinza, Duramorph, Kadian, MS Contin, MSIR and Roxanol.
Effects of Morphine
Morphine can cause many different side effects in those who use the drug. While taking morphine as a prescription from your doctor, you may experience lightheadedness, upset stomach, constipation, rash and vomiting. While morphine side effects are not all that common, they do occur. As always, contact your doctor should the effects of morphine be severe.
A morphine overdose can manifest itself in several ways including lowered blood pressure, slowed breathing and pulse, severe drowsiness, clammy skin, extremely small or extremely dilated pupils and coma. Should any of these warnings signs of a morphine overdose appear in an individual, contact a medical facility immediately.
The long term effects of morphine, like other opiates, causes changes in the chemical balance of the brain. Once your body becomes dependent upon morphine, your brain feels the need for it constantly. This is the same with the morphine derivative, heroin. Morphine addiction is a lifelong battle, with a great potential of relapse.
Morphine Addiction
Morphine is a highly addictive drug with which tolerance and dependence form quite quickly. Morphine addicts will focus their lives around their next dose of the drug. As their brains become more and more dependent on the opiate, the more addicted they become. A morphine addiction also impairs a person&rsquo;s awareness of their surroundings and thought processes.
How To Test For Morphine Abuse
Morphine drug tests can help point out those individuals with high levels of morphine in their systems. There are many different types of drug testing kits that detect morphine, including urine drug tests, saliva drug tests, hair drug tests and spray or sweat drug tests.
Business owners can find great comfort in utilizing morphine drug tests in their workplace. By preventing morphine drug abuse, employers save money in lost production, insurance claims, accident claims and more. Creating a drug testing program can greatly increase a business&rsquo;s productivity and appearance in the corporate world, whether small or large.
Worried parents can also benefit from drug testing their kids for drug abuse of morphine. Drug tests are easy to administer and provide fast and accurate results. No more wondering about whether or not your teen is using and illicit substance like morphine. A simple drug test can provide the answers you need to help your teen through their drug problem.
A longer version of this article can be found at Effects of Morphine . The article is prepared by Serhat Pala who runs the website TestCountry.com&nbsp;]]></description>
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<item>
	<title>Prescription Drug Abuse and Pill Withdrawal</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Addictions/Prescription-Drug-Abuse-and-Pill-Withdrawal.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 18:26:54 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Addictions</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Addictions/Prescription-Drug-Abuse-and-Pill-Withdrawal.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Abuse, or pill addiction as it is commonly called, and, ultimately, 'pill withdrawal' have been with us since doctors began prescribing drugs, but has become more widespread since the advent of the &lsquo;repeat prescription&rsquo; or &lsquo;refill&rsquo;, whereby patients can have a prescription renewed without having to visit their doctor. This can be as simple for many people as visiting a pharmacy and filling out a form giving their name, address and the drug they want. This is then returned to the surgery for the doctor to countersign. The problem is that these can often be signed as routine, rather than consideration being given to the need, and so facilitating prescription drug abuse.
If a certain patient begins to request repeats more often, would this be noticed? Theoretically it should, but in practice it is frequently not. Not, that is, until the next review. Frequently, twelve repeats are allowed before the patient must again speak to the doctor personally to review the treatment. Prescription drug abuse, and resultant pill withdrawal symptoms, are generally overlooked by the medical profession.
The type of prescription drugs which lead to pill addiction are wide and varied, and not just tranquilisers such as diazepam (Vallium) and nitrazepam (Mogadon). Common ones are codeine and codeine-containing painkillers such as cocodamol, and even over-the-counter codeine based painkillers such as Solpadeine which has its own addiction support group. Most prescription drug abuse is of one or other of these two types of drug: tranquilizers or painkillers. Tranquilizer pill withdrawal is very common in developed countries.
People involved in prescription drug abuse show any of a number of symptoms which are common to all patients suffering from pill withdrawal.
The main symptom of pill addiction is an increased tolerance to the drug, so that the user needs an increased amount to get the same effects they were used to. More and more of the drug is required, and four times is not uncommon. This leads to many problems, not the least of which is that it becomes difficult to control the symptom for which the drug was being taken in the first place. For example, it becomes increasingly difficult to control pain.
Those who suffer from pill addiction have not done so deliberately. Unlike other drug addicts, they have not taken increasing doses simply to get a 'buzz'. It happens to them gradually, over an extended period of time taking the same drugs to treat their condition. Cocodamol is commonly used in the treatment of arthritis, for example, and prescription drug abuse in such cases is hardly abuse in the real meaning of the word.
The pain-killing effect reduces as the body becomes more and more used to the drug, so the patient must take more or suffer increasing pain, resulting in pill addiction. It is not deliberate, but once it starts the patient can often do little about it due to the pill withdrawal symptoms compelling them to keep taking more and more. They know it is wrong but can do little about it, and try to hide how many they are taking from their family. They reach a stage where they are frightened to admit it, and are terrified to ask their doctor for help in case the drugs are stopped altogether.
Prescription drug abuse leads to physical dependence, and the person cannot function normally without a supply of the drug. The body adapts to the presence of the drug and can function while it is being supplied, but once the course of treatment is over, the patient suffers from pill withdrawal symptoms. These can be severe, including physical illness, mood swings and aggression, and depression. Ultimately pill addiction can lead to death through overdose. Paracetamol based painkillers containing codeine, for example, can be dangerous. The patient overdoses for the codeine content, but the paracetamol is insidious and can cause severe liver damage over a period of time.
The most obvious sign of prescription drug abuse is that the persons affected cannot stop taking them. They will increase the frequency of presentation of repeat prescriptions on a pretext such as needing extra since they are shortly going on holiday, or will resort to doctor hopping. The internet has also made it easy to purchase prescription drugs online, without a prescription from the patients own doctor being required. As has been previously explained, this type of pill addiction is not their fault and more could be done to control the circumstances which cause it.
Doctors, and in some cases the pharmacists, should be aware of the potential problems of long term use of such drugs, and give advice and help once the time has come to stop them. The dose should be reduced gradually rather than suddenly stopping the supply. Prescription drug abuse and pill withdrawal are becoming a serious problem in otherwise innocent law-abiding people. It should be possible to find a means of regularly changing the chemical nature of the drugs an individual has been prescribed with in order to reduce the possibility of this type of pill addiction.
Once dependence has been confirmed, or better still, admitted by a patient, steps can be taken to treat the addiction. Kicking prescription pill addiction is not easy, but better than a lifetime habit, and the doctor can help make it easier to achieve by using gradual withdrawal techniques.]]></description>
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	<title>Why is Alcohol a Drug?</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Alcohol-Addiction/Why-is-Alcohol-a-Drug.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 18:26:10 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Alcohol Addiction</category>
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	<description><![CDATA[In Narcotics Anonymous and other 12 step programs recovery is usually defined as complete abstinence from all mood and mind altering drugs. This includes the legal drug, alcohol. I have heard this questioned and debated many times and want to suggest some good reasons why Alcohol is a drug.
My personal experience is that Alcohol was a part of my using almost always. Although it was not my &ldquo;Drug of Choice&rdquo; I drank daily, and to excess. I did not admit that at first, but if I am honest with myself I know this to be true, for me. When I was first in treatment I insisted that my goal was not to give up drinking, or even smoking marijuana for that matter. I just wanted to quit Cocaine, which I didn&rsquo;t really consider my drug of choice but rather the drug that was kicking my ass on a regular basis. They doctor asked me &ldquo;Phil, if your life depended on it, could you abstain from all mood and mind altering drugs&rdquo;? I replied that of course, if my life depended on it I could. Then they set about the business of convincing me that my life did depend on it.
The disease concept was one of the things they set out to educate me about. The disease concept, as I understand it suggests that addiction is an incurable and fatal disease that while incurable can be treated and put into remission by abstinence from mood and mind altering drugs. Further, it suggests that the remission can be broken by any drug, not just the former drug of choice, and not even a drug that the person has ever done before. In other words, if someone has never had a drink of alcohol, but is in recovery for some other drug use, their addiction can be awakened by a drink, and not only awakened, but awakened at the place it would have progressed to had the person been active the entire time. I know some don&rsquo;t believe in the disease concept, but in my 16 plus years in the rooms of 12 step fellowships I have seen it happen enough that I believe it.
I know that some people seem to be able to go from drug addiction and somehow stop using the illegal drugs and manage to drink in a &ldquo;responsible&rdquo; manner. I won&rsquo;t argue that its possible. Here is my concern: it cuts people off from the support of the 12 step fellowships, or if they continue to go, it puts them in a position to be dishonest. See even though some 12 step fellowships don&rsquo;t expressly forbid anything other than their namesake (in other words technically you could go to AA, get years of sobriety while continuing to use marijuana) most of the &ldquo;winners&rdquo; in the program would tell you that you don&rsquo;t have any sobriety without total abstinence. NA is 100 percent clear on this. There is no room in NA for someone who abstains from &ldquo;narcotics&rdquo; but drinks.
Big deal you say? Well, imagine this situation if you will. Let&rsquo;s say you go to the program to deal with a cocaine problem. You are welcomed into AA, get a sponsor, attend meetings and work some steps. Lo and behold you put a few 24 hours together and declare yourself &ldquo;Clean and Sober&rdquo; to the world. In this example imagine that you are a published author and well known motivational speaker. As time goes on you decide that a drink sounds like a good idea, and you try it out and find that you can control it. What do you do when people ask you about your recovery? Well since you had a Cocaine problem, and you are still clean from Cocaine, you hear yourself saying &ldquo;I&rsquo;m clean and sober now for X amount of time&rdquo;. Problem is that&rsquo;s not true. Are you just lying to them, or are you lying to yourself too?
Then lets say that you end up with a pain management issue with a back injury. If you were still all the way in the program you would have a support system that includes all the people you know in the rooms in addition to your sponsor and your sponsees&hellip; but wait, since you wanted to drink, you don&rsquo;t have a sponsor, you are not sponsoring others, and your not attending meetings. You are essentially alone, with your addiction ready to kick in with the aid of prescription pain killers&hellip;.
An addict alone is in poor company. Alcohol is a drug. We must abstain from all drugs in order to recover. My example is a true story. All I can do is pray for him.
I don&rsquo;t wonder about whether or not I could &ldquo;get away&rdquo; with drinking. I&rsquo;m not willing to gamble my life on it today. I would suggest to you that its not worth it.]]></description>
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	<title>Alcoholism and Marijuana Smoking</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Addictions/Alcoholism-and-Marijuana-Smoking.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 18:25:49 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Addictions</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Addictions/Alcoholism-and-Marijuana-Smoking.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[Given the high prevalence of alcohol consumption and marijuana smoking, it may be conceived of normative developmental experience. Although light substance use may be a normative and adaptive behavior, a significant minority experience substance use-related problems. Assessing substance use behavior in association with other normative behaviors may enhance the understanding of this complex behavior.
Personal motivations are ongoing goals that direct behavior. Previous studies indicate that alcohol consumption and marijuana smoking are associated with the perceived utility of use in facilitating achievement of personal strivings (Simons and Carey, 2003). Persons who find substance use as conflicting with the achievement of strivings tend to use those substances at a lesser extent, whilst those perceiving use as facilitating attainment of their strivings use them at higher rates. This may be due to individual differences in the perceptions of costs and benefits of alcohol use and marijuana smoking or due to individual differences in valued goals.
Personal strivings are may be structured into their content. Content categories (Emmons, 1999) include motive dispositions, for instance power, achievement, affiliation and intimacy as well personal growth and self-presentation. Supportive studies show associations with achievement and self-presentation striving. Based on previous studies and their relevance to college students and substance use, four types of strivings are specifically relevant to this group of individuals: interpersonal/intrapersonal, affect regulation, achievement and self-presentation. Alcohol problems have been associated negatively with achievement striving, whereas self-presentation strivings were positively correlated. Alcohol and marijuana are comparable in that both are regulate affect and each may interfere with academic and other achievement goals. Their difference lies in the fact that alcohol is a legal and more socially accepted drug as compared to marijuana. Marijuana, on the other hand, is used more for increasing awareness, creativeness and self-understanding. Consequently, both interpersonal strivings and self-presentation strivings as a whole may be correlated with increased rates of alcohol consumption.
A recent study in the United States examined the relations involving marijuana smoking and alcohol consumption to personal strivings. Participants aged of both sexes 18-22 years completed an assessment of alcohol and marijuana use. Results of the study showed achievement strivings were unrelated to substance use. Conversely, individuals endorsing more affect regulation strivings were positively linked with alcohol use but not marijuana smoking. Lastly, interpersonal goals were associated with higher rates of alcohol consumption and lower rates of marijuana smoking. This study identified substance use associated with varying levels of certain types of personal strivings.
Personal motivations reflect broader strivings and may be considered as variables that guide behavior. The results of the study are consistent with previous research indicating that self-presentation strivings are associated with a higher rate of alcohol-related problems among college students. Correspondingly, interpersonal strivings were associated increased rates of alcohol use, which was not the case for marijuana smoking. This finding indicate that persons who view regulating affect as a principal personal goal use drugs at a higher rate than others. Substance use varies in respect to its relation to higher-order goals. Results of the study contribute to further understanding the role of drug use within the context of the personal strivings that guide behavioral choices.]]></description>
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	<title>Effect of Gender on Smoking Relapse</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Smoking-Addiction/Effect-of-Gender-on-Smoking-Relapse.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 18:25:14 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Smoking Addiction</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Smoking-Addiction/Effect-of-Gender-on-Smoking-Relapse.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[The fallback into smoking a quit attempt is simply referred to as smoking relapse. Most relapses occur within days or weeks after the initial cessation attempt. The appearance of relapse signifies that point prevalence quitting percentages are not the only outcome to be considered when determining the effect of a smoking cessation intervention, as only patients who remain smoke free truly benefit from their behavioral change.
Indicators of relapse after quitting have been analyzed by many studies. Several of these factors have been identified: a lower addiction level, an older age, fewer cigarettes smoked per day, male gender, fewer years smoked more previous quit attempts, higher self-efficacy and being married as protective indicators against smoking relapse. Studies show an increase in craving and depressed mood predict the occurrence of relapse. Additionally, studies concerning pharmacological treatment, such as Nicotine Replacement Therapy and bupropion, have demonstrated a positive influence on relapse prevention.
Still, it is unclear whether gender influences the occurrence on relapse on smoking cessation. Although Borelli et al. (2001) found that female gender predicted higher relapse rates within three months after a quit attempt and weight gain predicted relapse for men only, many other studies have shown otherwise. Garvey and Bliss (1992) did not find any predictors of relapse in correlation with gender. Accordingly, more study is necessary to ascertain the probable relationship between smoking relapse and gender. The notion of relapse has been incorporated in a number of cognitive behavioral models. One of which is Marlatt and Gordon's relapse prevention model (1985) which focus entirely on the describing the indicators of relapse, stating that both overt factors - high-risk situations, coping skills, outcomes expectations and self-efficacies) and covert determinants - lifestyle factors, carvings and urges. Another model is the transtheoretical model (Prochaska et al., 1997), which states that both relapse and behavior change are in connection with the stages of change. An individual goes through different stages of intention to reach a behavioral change. When behavior is changed, the action stage is reached, for example smoking cessation. After behavioral change has been achieved, the individual can either maintain the change in behavior or fall back into the prior behavior (relapse).
A recent questionnaire-based survey in the Netherlands investigated the influence of gender and the relapse preventive quality of action plans on the emergence of relapse in smokers after drug dependence treatment strategy. Prediction of relapse was assessed by intention, utilization of pharmacy-based minimal intervention and action plans. Action plans consisted of specific behavioral changes to quit smoking, such as quitting immediately, removing all smoking materials from home, informing people around, actively seeking smoking cessations help and prospecting a reward for self. It was found out that action plans provided a protective importance against smoking relapse. Respondents were more likely to relapse if they had quit more often in the past. Bupropion therapy during the attempt to quit predicted against relapse. The use of nicotine replacement therapy was not a very significant variable in predicting the occurrence of relapse. Men and women did not differ in relapse rates, although the predictors of relapse of both genders differed. Specifically in men, relapse was predicted by a higher intention to quit smoking at baseline. Women were more likely to relapse if the addiction level was higher and a negative self-efficacy.
Drug dependence health professionals designing relapse prevention interventions should take into account the relevance of gender when developing treatment programs. Special emphasis should be directed towards women with high addiction levels and low self-efficacies. The utilization of action plans, as a relapse prophylaxis should also incorporated into pharmacotherapy so as to improve treatment outcome.]]></description>
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	<title>Addiction Treatment Is A Choice</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Addictions/Addiction-Treatment-Is-A-Choice.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 18:24:50 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Addictions</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Addictions/Addiction-Treatment-Is-A-Choice.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[People become victims of substance abuse for different and often inscrutable reason. But whatever these reasons are, it is undeniable that this problem wrecks havoc in the lives of its victims and the society. It is proven that there is a connection between the increasing crime rate and substance use. Other than being perpetrators of crimes, people under the influence of substances damage their own health. Cases of drug overdose, alcohol-driven accidents, and infections are common in emergency rooms, hospitals, and sadly, even morgues. But there is still hope for the family, friends, and the addicted individuals. Different addiction treatment programs are launched yearly by the government and other civilian organizations in hopes of promoting a healthier and peaceful society.
But addiction treatment is a delicate issue. Substance dependents take a long time before accepting that they have a problem. Denial often delays seeking for treatment which often results in growing severity in the dependency. Even family and friends ignore warning signs of drug abuse or alcoholism in their loved ones because they simply can't accept that the problem exists. Dependents and their families often think that they can solve or stop the habit by themselves. However, substance dependency is not just an excessive physical craving it is also a psychological problem. Without professional help, the chances of recovery and avoiding relapse are very low to none.
Admittedly, there is no permanent cure for addiction. Recovery and treatment are continuos and life-long processes. But there are several ways to considerably lighten the burden. Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and community organizations with treatment programs guide dependents to recovery. In joining these groups, dependents get the chance to relate and share experiences with persons battling the same problem. These groups are also facilitated by people who are experts in substance abuse counseling. A common practice in these groups is the surrender of the dependents to Higher Powers which guide them through the process. Dependents who undergo this form of recovery describe it as deeply spiritual and life-changing.
If surrendering oneself to another is not the dependent's cup of tea, there is another treatment program that banks on individual power. The SMART Recovery addiction treatment rejects the Higher Power but instead urges individuals to find within themselves the strength to overcome their problem. The treatment is abstinence-based - the individual has the competency to choose a better life over the substance he is addicted to.
No matter what form of addiction treatment a dependent follows, it is important to emphasize that no one becomes sober overnight. It is also important to stress that relapse is still a strong possibility. Substance abuse programs are only there to help, not to cure. Having a better life is a choice dependents have to make for themselves.]]></description>
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	<title>Alcohol Treatments</title>
	<link>http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Alcohol-Addiction/Alcohol-Treatments.html</link>
<pubDate>Sat, 22 Jul 2006 18:23:37 -0400</pubDate>
<category>Alcohol Addiction</category>
<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.TheAddictionGuide.com/info/Alcohol-Addiction/Alcohol-Treatments.html</guid>
	<description><![CDATA[Alcohol treatment programs are available in every city and small town in the United States. Admitting to the problem of alcoholism and seeking help at an addiction center is the first positive step towards recovery.
There are a variety of drug treatments available to help alcoholics. The idea of treating alcoholism through the use of drugs is controversial, since the drugs used to treat the condition are also addictive. Drug treatment centers use medication as a means of counteracting the effects of the addictive substance. It makes the person feel ill if taken in conjunction with the substance. Disulfuram is an example of a drug administered to alcoholics. Disulfuram makes an alcoholic feel nauseous.
Alcohol treatment programs use both counseling and medications. With support and treatment, many people are able to stop drinking alcohol and rebuild their lives. There are varying levels of success when it comes to alcohol treatment. Some people stop drinking and remain sober on their own. Others have long periods of sobriety with bouts of relapse.
Treatments depend on the needs of an individual and the severity of the abuse. There is a number of self-help programs that help alcoholics deal with the disease. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is the largest self-help organization that was founded by alcoholics. Membership is free and meetings take place on a regular basis around the world. Group meetings are facilitated by members and include a support system from fellow members that have recovered from alcoholism.
Outpatient treatment is also an option for alcoholics. Treatment includes drug education and individual and group counseling. It typically involves 8-hour sessions including group therapy with an emphasis on preventing relapse, managing stress and communicating with family.
It is imperative that alcoholics seek treatment for a successful recovery. However, many do turn back to alcohol a few times before achieving long-term sobriety. Research indicates that 90% of alcoholics have a relapse at least once. This may be a setback, but it does not mean that a person cannot recover from alcoholism. Restarting the treatment will enable him to get back on the road to sobriety.]]></description>
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