
When Does Drinking Cross the Line into Alcohol Addiction?
AddictionWhile drinking alcohol is not necessarily a problem for some people, for others drinking too much can lead to a wide range of consequences. Alcohol-related problems have serious mental, physical and social effects. People who experience problems…

Substance Abuse vs. Substance Dependence
AddictionAlthough substance abuse and substance dependence are frequently used interchangeably, the two terms, while interrelated, are distinct. While both refer to someone's destructive association with drugs or alcohol, one often comes before the other.…

How to Recognize the Signs of Addiction
Addiction, Alcohol, Dual DiagnosisAddiction is a chronic and relapsing disease that affects brain function and behavior. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, once an addiction has developed, it almost always requires professional intervention to stem the cycle…

Factors That Can Increase Addiction Risk
AddictionAddiction Risk
As addiction experts will tell you, anyone can become addicted. However, some people may have a higher addiction risk and are more influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Like other illnesses such as…

Addiction in Your Life
Addiction, Dual Diagnosis, Relapse, TreatmentHow Drugs and Alcohol Affect Your Life & Relationships
Addiction is an insidious illness that can eventually take control of a person's life. Anybody who risks experimenting with drugs can become addicted.1 One of the most disturbing things…

Recognize Addiction: Signs and Symptoms
AddictionRecognizing an Addiction Problem
Addiction is a type of disorder that is marked by compulsive substance abuse, even when that substance abuse creates negative consequences. This includes taking drugs—both legal and illegal—and drinking…

Detox Basics: How It Works and What to Expect
Addiction, DetoxWhat Is The Process of Detoxification During Withdrawal
Many people suffering from substance use disorders confess that one roadblock to pursuing recovery is a fear of the detoxification process. Not knowing what to expect causes them to be…