Substance abuse can come in many forms, and problematic substances have become more accessible than ever. More and more over-the-counter (OTC) household products are finding their way onto the list of abused substances that can lead to addiction. Inhalants that create a high when inhaled are among this ever-growing list. Doctors use nitrous oxide gas …

A type of depression called seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can be connected to the change in seasons in the fall and winter when the temperature drops and the daylight wanes. Those who effectively manage their seasonal depression prepare themselves for these times of the year so that they take better care of themselves and deal …

Heroin and drugs with similar properties are becoming more and more accessible and in unexpected forms. One of the newest methods to seek an opioid high involves an antidepressant found in dietary supplements, which can be legally purchased at convenience stores and gas stations. Unfortunately, because this antidepressant has opioid-like qualities, it can have the …

Knowing if someone you care about has a drinking problem can be tricky. Even though you may recognize signs of addiction, people struggling with addiction become very good at hiding, masking, or dismissing their problematic behaviors. If you experience feelings of guilt after drinking or drinking has become a problem for someone close to you, …

It’s challenging to be able to fully understand addiction and its connection to other health conditions, physical, mental, and emotional. Co-occurring conditions are common, and most professional treatment programs offer dual diagnosis treatment. When it comes to abusing alcohol and anxiety disorders—such as social anxiety—they can feed off of each other. A substance use disorder …

Using cocaine doesn’t have any positive health effects, and the long and short-term consequences can be pretty severe. What does cocaine do to your body? Many long-time abusers of cocaine develop a myriad of adverse issues. Abuse of cocaine leads to serious long-term effects, including significant medical complications. Cardiovascular damage—particularly heart problems—is common. When cocaine …

Marijuana has many street names. It can be referred to as weed, pot, and grass—among other names. You may also hear it called cannabis, as the drug comes from the Cannabis sativa plant. Legal in many states now, recreational marijuana use is starting to become as common as alcohol use. Unfortunately, just like alcohol abuse, …

Methamphetamine (meth) is a very addictive stimulant drug. The state of euphoria the drug creates is what keeps people coming back for more, even though they know the dangers of taking it. Once addiction sets in, it’s tough to stop using the drug. Getting professional treatment at The Right Step’s drug treatment centers provides the …

While it may not always be easy to ask for help, when alcohol use becomes abuse, it’s time to seek help—for you or a loved one. “Wine mom culture” can lead to laughter but also mask a severe problem. Alcohol abuse in women is a growing concern and shouldn’t be ignored. Addiction treatment at an …

Depression can come in many forms. Everyone feels down at some point, especially after experiencing a loss or trauma. But for those whose depression lingers and interferes with everyday life, this is a serious concern. This type of condition should be treated just like any other medical condition. It is possible to live with depression …