Many factors can make addiction issues more pronounced. These factors can be both internal like pent-up trauma or external like the changing of the seasons. This last external aspect is where seasonal affective disorder can really start to compound addiction struggles. Better Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder Many people dismiss seasonal affective disorder (also commonly referred to as “seasonal depression”) as either a minimal issue or a fleeting one. For example, “it’s okay, it will soon pass.” This is not a reasonable or acceptable way to think about seasonal affective disorder as i ..read more

Alcohol holds a complex place in American society, with its use spanning celebratory, casual, and concerning behaviors.  Although the legal drinking age is 21, the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) found that 21.7% of Americans aged 12 and older reported binge drinking in the previous month, illustrating the widespread nature of alcohol consumption. This behavior takes a serious toll. Alcohol-related diseases and incidents claim nearly 178,000 lives annually, marking it as one of the nation’s leading preventable causes of death. On the economic front, the impact is equal ..read more

Have you ever wondered who can prescribe medication beyond your family doctor? Legal authority to prescribe stretches across various healthcare roles, from nurse practitioners to psychiatrists, each with specific prescribing rights. Our guide will walk you through the providers who can offer prescriptions, the extent of their authority, and how it can differ from state to state. Key Takeaways Healthcare professionals with prescriptive authority range from primary care providers to specialized practitioners such as nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and psychiatrists, though the extent ..read more

You’re searching for who can prescribe Schedule 8 drugs, and we have the answers. In this article, we’ll guide you through the specific authorities granted to physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, detailing the regulations that dictate their prescribing rights. From stringent authorization procedures to state-by-state variations, gain a clear understanding of who holds the power to prescribe these highly regulated medications. Key Takeaways Schedule 8 drugs have therapeutic value but a high potential for misuse, requiring careful regulation and control in their prescripti ..read more

If you are wondering who can prescribe methadone for opioid addiction treatment, this article provides the answer. In the United States, methadone can only be prescribed by certified healthcare providers at registered Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) or hospitals. These regulations ensure controlled distribution and limit misuse. Continue reading to learn about the role of physicians, the expanded authority of nurse practitioners, and how different regions like Canada handle methadone prescription. Key Takeaways Methadone is prescribed under strict federal and state regulations, primarily at ..read more

Benzodiazepines, often termed ‘benzos’, are medications designed to depress the central nervous system, effectively reducing anxiety, aiding sleep, and preventing seizures. As they modulate the neurotransmitter GABA, what are benzodiazepines? They are powerful, but their usage must be carefully managed due to risks like dependency. This article unpacks the essential knowledge surrounding benzodiazepines, guiding you through their uses, effects, and safety precautions. Key Takeaways Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants that augment the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA, in ..read more

Schedule 8 drugs represent a category of prescription medications with stringent legal controls, like oxycodone and methadone, due to their high risk of prompting dependency or misuse. In this guide, we explore the definition, regulatory framework, and responsible medical use of these potent drugs, providing clarity on a complex topic without overwhelming detail. So, what are Schedule 8 drugs? Let’s dive in to find out more. Key Takeaways Schedule 8 drugs are controlled substances with a high potential for abuse and dependence, requiring strict regulatory oversight and are prescribed for spec ..read more

Have you ever wondered if the struggle with addiction is written in your DNA? How much does your genetic makeup dictate your potential for addiction? ‘Is addiction genetic?’ – this question sits at the intersection of nature and nurture. Delving into the science, research indicates that genetics accounts for roughly 40-60% of the risk for addiction. This article explores the intricate ways in which our genes may predispose us to addiction, without determining our destiny, and examines the critical role that environmental factors also play. Key Takeaways Genetics account for 40-60% of an indiv ..read more

Is rehab free? Yes, many individuals can access no-cost addiction treatment, and this guide can show you how. We dive into free rehab services, how to qualify, and what these programs include. Start your journey to recovery with the right information, understanding all the options available to help manage addiction, at no cost to you. Key Takeaways Free rehabilitation centers do exist, funded by government and private sources, offering a range of services from detox to aftercare. However, individuals seeking these services must provide proof of need and meet certain eligibility criteria. Reso ..read more

It is not unusual for people early in recovery to experience something known as a “pink cloud.” This is when the initial physical and mental issues of addiction start to fade away and an individual starts to feel like themselves again. However, it is important to remember that this pink cloud feeling often ebbs and flows, especially as one gets further along in their recovery and starts to experience recovery burnout. What Exactly Is Recovery Burnout? Recovery burnout is the feeling that one has when everything that they are doing in their recovery starts to feel repetitive and redundant leadi ..read more