Examining the Steps: Step 3

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The third step in the AA program is very important. Essentially, it means that you need to make a decision to allow a higher power to take control of your mind, body, and life. In addition, it means that you will trust them to guide you down the right path. For many, this higher power

Can You Help a Friend Avoid Addiction Relapse?

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Anyone who is fighting addiction must be aware of relapse. Recovery is a long, difficult process and relapse is one of the bumps that cover the path to a healthy life. Studies show that about 50% of people in recovery relapse, but this fact is not something to be discouraged by. If your loved one

Resisting Those Oxycontin Cravings

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Cravings are a natural part of recovery. Anyone who’s been addicted has experienced cravings; there’s nothing to be ashamed or worried about. Although cravings may feel awful, if you can stick them out they will decrease in both strength and frequency. All you need to do is wait and stay strong. However, there are some

How Do I Quit Using Cocaine?

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Cocaine is a highly addictive drug that specifically targets the central nervous system and rewires the brain to become dependent. By using crack cocaine frequently, you drastically increase your risk for both physical and psychological dependence. When you begin to consider quitting cocaine, you should consult your doctor. Addiction is dangerous, and withdrawal symptoms from

How to Tell Your Family You Have a Drug Problem

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Once you realize you have an addiction, it can be difficult to know what to do next. You probably feel scared and overwhelmed, and telling your family only makes those feelings grow. What you probably don’t realize that your family knows something is going on. As an addict, you try to hide your deteriorating state

The Hangover: Why you Get it the Morning After Drinking

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Scientific experts don’t know exactly why people get hangovers, but they are in the early stages of research to determine prevention techniques and treatment options. We do know the effects of a hangover vary from person to person in intensity and length, and we’ll explore common symptoms and possible causes.     People experiencing hangovers

It’s Not Too Late to Get Help for Your Opiate Addiction

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The abuse of and addiction to opioids such as heroin, morphine, and prescription pain relievers is a serious global problem that affects the health, social, and economic welfare of all societies. It is estimated that between 26.4 million and 36 million people abuse opioids worldwide, with an estimated 2.1 million people in the United States

Taking Responsibility for Addiction

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Being a parent of a teenager struggling with addiction is an extremely difficult situation to be in. While many teens simply experiment with alcohol and drugs, some of them end up with problems and addiction. We’ll explore the relationship between a teen addict and their parent(s), and discuss ways to help what might seem like

There’s no Sense in Blaming Others for Your Drinking Problem

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We are quick to point fingers in many situations when we make a mistake, when something goes wrong, or when someone ends up hurt. We’ve all been here. How about the time you stopped for coffee in the morning before work and turned around—not looking—and bumped right into someone, spilling a full cup of coffee

Examining the Steps: Step 2

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Step 2 of the Alcoholics Anonymous program is essentially a stage of hope. It is about understanding that you are not alone, and that you don’t have to be miserable and in pain. Step 2 is about believing that a higher power greater than yourself can restore you to sanity and peace. The key point