Alcoholism: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Alcoholism Screening Quiz
Do you have a drinking problem? Take this quiz developed by the Office of Health Care Programs, Johns Hopkins University Hospital.
Do you have a drinking problem? Take this quiz developed by the Office of Health Care Programs, Johns Hopkins University Hospital.
Adult Child of Alcoholics Screening Quiz
Have you been affected by growing up around someone else's alcohol problem? Take this quiz to determine if you have affected more than you realize.
Have you been affected by growing up around someone else's alcohol problem? Take this quiz to determine if you have affected more than you realize.
Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal
Alcohol withdrawal refers to a group of symptoms that may occur from suddenly stopping the use of alcohol after chronic or prolonged ingestion.
Alcohol withdrawal refers to a group of symptoms that may occur from suddenly stopping the use of alcohol after chronic or prolonged ingestion.
Symptoms of Alcoholism
There are many symptoms of drinking problems, but there are seven major symptoms of the most severe drinking problem, alcohol dependence or alcoholism.
There are many symptoms of drinking problems, but there are seven major symptoms of the most severe drinking problem, alcohol dependence or alcoholism.
Effects of Marijuana
Although legalization activists and many marijuana users believe smoking pot has no negative effects, scientific research indicates that marijuana use can cause many health problems.
Although legalization activists and many marijuana users believe smoking pot has no negative effects, scientific research indicates that marijuana use can cause many health problems.
Alcohol Withdrawal
When heavy or frequent drinkers suddenly decide to quit "cold turkey" they will experience some physical withdrawal symptoms.
When heavy or frequent drinkers suddenly decide to quit "cold turkey" they will experience some physical withdrawal symptoms.
Are You Troubled by Someone's Drinking?
Millions of people are affected by the excessive drinking of someone close. The following questions are designed to help you decide whether or not you need Al-Anon.
Millions of people are affected by the excessive drinking of someone close. The following questions are designed to help you decide whether or not you need Al-Anon.
Drug Abuse Screening Quiz
Do you have a substance abuse problem? Take this quiz developed by the Vanderbilt University Addiction Center.
Do you have a substance abuse problem? Take this quiz developed by the Vanderbilt University Addiction Center.
Alcohol Screening Quiz
If you consume alcohol it is important to know if your drinking is safe, risky or harmful. This test can help you assess your risks and decide if you have a drinking problem.
If you consume alcohol it is important to know if your drinking is safe, risky or harmful. This test can help you assess your risks and decide if you have a drinking problem.
Drunk Driving Penalties
What fate awaits those arrested for drunk driving? They may be surprised to find that penalties, even the first offense, have been increased drastically.
What fate awaits those arrested for drunk driving? They may be surprised to find that penalties, even the first offense, have been increased drastically.
A.A. Meetings by State
The definitive source for finding lists of face-to-face Alcoholic Anonymous meetings on the net.
The definitive source for finding lists of face-to-face Alcoholic Anonymous meetings on the net.
Marijuana
Marijuana buds.
Marijuana buds.
Domestic Abuse Screening Quiz
Is your relationship like most other couples or has it developed into a truly abusive one? Take this quiz to determine if your relationship is considered abusive.
Is your relationship like most other couples or has it developed into a truly abusive one? Take this quiz to determine if your relationship is considered abusive.
Are You Enabling an Alcoholic?
Have you enabled an alcoholic or addict to avoid the consequences of his actions? This quiz can help you determine if your actions are enabling.
Have you enabled an alcoholic or addict to avoid the consequences of his actions? This quiz can help you determine if your actions are enabling.
Long-Term Effects of Pot?
While all of the long-term effects of marijuana use are not yet known, there are studies showing serious health concerns.
While all of the long-term effects of marijuana use are not yet known, there are studies showing serious health concerns.
Symptoms of an Problem?
Certain behaviors are known to be possible early signs of an alcohol problem.
Certain behaviors are known to be possible early signs of an alcohol problem.
Effects of Cocaine
Cocaine can be snorted, injected and even smoked in some forms of the drug. In all cases cocaine is a strong central nervous system stimulant which affects the brain's processing of dopamine.
Cocaine can be snorted, injected and even smoked in some forms of the drug. In all cases cocaine is a strong central nervous system stimulant which affects the brain's processing of dopamine.
What Is Alcoholism?
The term alcoholism refers to a disease known as alcohol dependence syndrome, the most severe stage of a group of drinking problems which begin with binge drinking and alcohol abuse.
The term alcoholism refers to a disease known as alcohol dependence syndrome, the most severe stage of a group of drinking problems which begin with binge drinking and alcohol abuse.
Drug Pictures
If you found illegal drugs in your child's room, would you be able to recognize them? Would you know the difference between harmless allergy medication and dangerous stimulants or sedatives?
If you found illegal drugs in your child's room, would you be able to recognize them? Would you know the difference between harmless allergy medication and dangerous stimulants or sedatives?
Alcoholism FAQs
Here are the questions The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism most often receives about alcohol and alcoholism along with their answers.
Here are the questions The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism most often receives about alcohol and alcoholism along with their answers.
Adult Children of Alcoholics
Some common characteristics are observed in adult children of alcoholics. Do any of these sound familiar to you?
Some common characteristics are observed in adult children of alcoholics. Do any of these sound familiar to you?
Marijuana Metabolism
The effects of smoking marijuana fade very quickly, but the drug can be detected in the body for weeks and sometimes longer.
The effects of smoking marijuana fade very quickly, but the drug can be detected in the body for weeks and sometimes longer.
Effects of LSD?
Although most LSD trips include both pleasant and unpleasant aspects, the drug's effects are unpredictable.
Although most LSD trips include both pleasant and unpleasant aspects, the drug's effects are unpredictable.
What Is Marijuana?
Marijuana is a green, brown, or gray mixture of dried, shredded leaves, stems, seeds, and flowers of the hemp plant.
Marijuana is a green, brown, or gray mixture of dried, shredded leaves, stems, seeds, and flowers of the hemp plant.
Getting Treatment
Most people who quit drinking alcohol experience mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms and can usually be treated by healthcare providers on an out-patient basis, but five percent experience severe withdrawal symptoms and must be treated in a hospital or a facility that specializes in detoxification.
Most people who quit drinking alcohol experience mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms and can usually be treated by healthcare providers on an out-patient basis, but five percent experience severe withdrawal symptoms and must be treated in a hospital or a facility that specializes in detoxification.
Antabuse
Antabuse, or disulfiram as it is also known, was the first medicine approved for the treatment of alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence.
Antabuse, or disulfiram as it is also known, was the first medicine approved for the treatment of alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence.
Treatment of Alcoholism
For alcoholics who have decided to get help for their drinking problem there are many different treatment programs and approaches available, but there is no medical cure.
For alcoholics who have decided to get help for their drinking problem there are many different treatment programs and approaches available, but there is no medical cure.
Information for Families
Resources and information for the friends and family members of alcoholics.
Resources and information for the friends and family members of alcoholics.
The Lower Drinking Age Debate
Because of the high-profile arrests of President Bush's 19-year-old daughter for underage drinking offenses, suddenly the debate about lowering the legal drinking age is back in the spotlight.
Because of the high-profile arrests of President Bush's 19-year-old daughter for underage drinking offenses, suddenly the debate about lowering the legal drinking age is back in the spotlight.
Alcohol and Breastfeeding
Mothers who breastfeed are receiving conflicting advice, on and off the Internet, about whether it's okay for them to consume alcohol without affecting their babies.
Mothers who breastfeed are receiving conflicting advice, on and off the Internet, about whether it's okay for them to consume alcohol without affecting their babies.
Signs of a Problem?
What Are the Signs of a Problem?
What Are the Signs of a Problem?
Bagged Cocaine
Cocaine in plastic bag.
Cocaine in plastic bag.
Alcohol and Pregnancy
Some experts say moderate drinking during pregnancy is okay, but there are others who believe taking even one drink is like playing Russian Roulette with your baby's health.
Some experts say moderate drinking during pregnancy is okay, but there are others who believe taking even one drink is like playing Russian Roulette with your baby's health.
Is My Child Using Drugs?
Is your child using alcohol or drugs? Take this quiz to determine if some of the telltell signs of sustance abuse are showing up in your home.
Is your child using alcohol or drugs? Take this quiz to determine if some of the telltell signs of sustance abuse are showing up in your home.
Depression Screening Quiz
Answer Yes to these questions only if you have had these symptoms for longer than two weeks or if the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your daily routine.
Answer Yes to these questions only if you have had these symptoms for longer than two weeks or if the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your daily routine.
Dangers of Drunk Driving
Why drinking and driving increases the risk of having an accident.
Why drinking and driving increases the risk of having an accident.
Cocaine
Cocaine is a powerfully addictive drug of abuse. Once having tried cocaine, a user cannot predict or control the extent to which he or she will continue to use the drug.
Cocaine is a powerfully addictive drug of abuse. Once having tried cocaine, a user cannot predict or control the extent to which he or she will continue to use the drug.
Specific Medical Treatment
About 95 percent of people have mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms, but they do not progress to full-blown delirium tremens. Such patients can nearly always be treated as outpatients.
About 95 percent of people have mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms, but they do not progress to full-blown delirium tremens. Such patients can nearly always be treated as outpatients.
Heroin
Closeup Picture of Heroin
Closeup Picture of Heroin
Alcohol Abuse vs. Dependence
What is the difference between alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence?
What is the difference between alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence?
OxyContin Facts
Oxycontin is the time-release form of oxycodone, a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic usually prescribed for chronic and severe pain. Because it contains a larger amount of oxycodone, it has become one of the most abused prescription drugs in the United States.
Oxycontin is the time-release form of oxycodone, a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic usually prescribed for chronic and severe pain. Because it contains a larger amount of oxycodone, it has become one of the most abused prescription drugs in the United States.
Alcohol - Getting the Facts
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has prepared this information to help individuals and families answer these and other common questions about alcohol problems.
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has prepared this information to help individuals and families answer these and other common questions about alcohol problems.
Heroin Facts
Heroin is a highly addictive drug, and its use is a serious problem in the United States. Recent trends show a shift from injecting heroin to snorting or smoking because of increased purity and the misconception that only injecting heroin will lead to addiction.
Heroin is a highly addictive drug, and its use is a serious problem in the United States. Recent trends show a shift from injecting heroin to snorting or smoking because of increased purity and the misconception that only injecting heroin will lead to addiction.
Drinking Problem?
There are many diagnostics tests available online that can help you self-evaluate your drinking, but none of them should substitute for professional medical advice.
There are many diagnostics tests available online that can help you self-evaluate your drinking, but none of them should substitute for professional medical advice.
Alcohol Metabolism
Through oxidation, alcohol is detoxified and removed from the blood, preventing the alcohol from accumulating and destroying cells and organs.
Through oxidation, alcohol is detoxified and removed from the blood, preventing the alcohol from accumulating and destroying cells and organs.
Am I An Alcoholic?
Take this short quiz to help determine if your drinking is safe, risky or harmful.
Take this short quiz to help determine if your drinking is safe, risky or harmful.
Crack Cocaine
Rocks of crack cocaine.
Rocks of crack cocaine.
Impaired Driving
It's not a question of whether you are legally intoxicated, it's a question of whether or not it is safe to drive when you have consumed any amount of alcohol. Research shows that impairment begins long before a person reaches the blood alcohol concentration level of .08.
It's not a question of whether you are legally intoxicated, it's a question of whether or not it is safe to drive when you have consumed any amount of alcohol. Research shows that impairment begins long before a person reaches the blood alcohol concentration level of .08.
Effects of Cocaine Use?
Once having tried cocaine, an individual may have difficulty predicting or controlling the extent to which he or she will continue to use the drug.
Once having tried cocaine, an individual may have difficulty predicting or controlling the extent to which he or she will continue to use the drug.
Drinking Myths
These are the most common misconceptions that many people have about drinking alcohol and the effects of alcohol, along with the actual facts.
These are the most common misconceptions that many people have about drinking alcohol and the effects of alcohol, along with the actual facts.
How Can I Get Him to Stop?
When visitors to the Alcoholism site at About.com ask the above questions about the drinker in their lives the answer is not simple.
When visitors to the Alcoholism site at About.com ask the above questions about the drinker in their lives the answer is not simple.
Decided to Stop Drinking?
If you have decided, for whatever reason, that you want to stop drinking, there is a world of help and support available.
If you have decided, for whatever reason, that you want to stop drinking, there is a world of help and support available.
Games Alcoholic Families Play
You are not the cause of someone else's drinking problem, you cannot cure it and you can't control it, but you can contribute to it if you are playing a role in the drama.
You are not the cause of someone else's drinking problem, you cannot cure it and you can't control it, but you can contribute to it if you are playing a role in the drama.
Problem Drinker
Many people who have a problem with alcohol are not alcoholics, and in order to quit drinking they do not necessarily need medical treatment, peer group support, or a spiritual awakening.
Many people who have a problem with alcohol are not alcoholics, and in order to quit drinking they do not necessarily need medical treatment, peer group support, or a spiritual awakening.
Indoor Marijuana Plants
Photo of indoor marijuana seized by the DEA.
Photo of indoor marijuana seized by the DEA.
Binge Drinking Affects Brain
Young people who binge drink could be risking serious damage to their brains now and increasing memory loss later in adulthood.
Young people who binge drink could be risking serious damage to their brains now and increasing memory loss later in adulthood.
Did You Grow Up with a Problem Drinker?
If someone close to you, such as a family member, friend, coworker, or neighbor, has or has had a drinking problem, the following questions, developed by Al-Anon Family Groups, may help you determine if Al-Anon is for you.
If someone close to you, such as a family member, friend, coworker, or neighbor, has or has had a drinking problem, the following questions, developed by Al-Anon Family Groups, may help you determine if Al-Anon is for you.
A Safe Level of Drinking?
Most adults can drink moderate amounts of alcohol -- up to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women and older people.
Most adults can drink moderate amounts of alcohol -- up to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women and older people.
Enabling
Many times when family and friends try to help alcoholics, they are actually making it easier for them to continue in the progression of the disease.
Many times when family and friends try to help alcoholics, they are actually making it easier for them to continue in the progression of the disease.
Bag of Marijuana
Plastic bag of marijuana.
Plastic bag of marijuana.
Effects of Heroin
As with most illegal drugs, Heroin use has both short-term and long-term effects. Whether injected, snorted or smoked, heroin will begin to affect the body's central nervous system almost immeidately after it is used.
As with most illegal drugs, Heroin use has both short-term and long-term effects. Whether injected, snorted or smoked, heroin will begin to affect the body's central nervous system almost immeidately after it is used.
Images of Brain Damage
Innovations in imaging technology has helped alcohol researchers study how alcohol damages internal organs, such as the brain and the liver.
Innovations in imaging technology has helped alcohol researchers study how alcohol damages internal organs, such as the brain and the liver.
Marijuana Bud
Photo of marijuana bud.
Photo of marijuana bud.
The 12 Steps
The 12 Step Twelve Alcoholics Anonymous Al-Anon
The 12 Step Twelve Alcoholics Anonymous Al-Anon
What Is Substance Abuse?
Substance abuse can simply be defined as a pattern of harmful use of any substance for mood-altering purposes, but the broad range of substance abuse in today's society is not that simple.
Substance abuse can simply be defined as a pattern of harmful use of any substance for mood-altering purposes, but the broad range of substance abuse in today's society is not that simple.
Alcohol Dementia
Excessive drinking over a period of years may lead to Alcohol Dementia which affects memory, learning and other functions
Excessive drinking over a period of years may lead to Alcohol Dementia which affects memory, learning and other functions
EtG Urine Test
A widely-used urine test, utilized by drug-testing laboratories to detect alcohol consumption, is too inaccurate to be reliable, according to an advisory issued by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
A widely-used urine test, utilized by drug-testing laboratories to detect alcohol consumption, is too inaccurate to be reliable, according to an advisory issued by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
N.A. Meetings by State
The definitive source for finding lists of face-to-face Narcotics Anonymous meetings on the net.
The definitive source for finding lists of face-to-face Narcotics Anonymous meetings on the net.
Diagnosis of Alcoholism
Diagnosing alcoholism can be tricky, since the diagnosis depends on the drinker being willing to honestly answer a series of questions about his or her drinking patterns and attitudes.
Diagnosing alcoholism can be tricky, since the diagnosis depends on the drinker being willing to honestly answer a series of questions about his or her drinking patterns and attitudes.
Short-Term Pot Effects?
The effects are even greater when other drugs are mixed with the marijuana.
The effects are even greater when other drugs are mixed with the marijuana.
Dry Drunk
They haven't had a drink in years, but still haven't gotten to the Sober part.
They haven't had a drink in years, but still haven't gotten to the Sober part.
Long-term Heroin Effects?
One of the most detrimental long-term effects of heroin is addiction itself.
One of the most detrimental long-term effects of heroin is addiction itself.
Adult Child Screening Quiz
Did you grow up with a problem drinker? Those who grow up in homes where there is alcohol abuse or alcoholism are sometimes affected in ways they do not even realize.
Did you grow up with a problem drinker? Those who grow up in homes where there is alcohol abuse or alcoholism are sometimes affected in ways they do not even realize.
Short-Term Effects of Cocaine?
Cocaine's effects appear almost immediately after a single dose, and disappear within a few minutes or hours.
Cocaine's effects appear almost immediately after a single dose, and disappear within a few minutes or hours.
Marijuana Leaves
Leaves of a growing marijuana plant
Leaves of a growing marijuana plant
Marijuana Cigarettes
Two rolled marijuana cigarettes (joints)
Two rolled marijuana cigarettes (joints)
Alcoholism As a Disease
Alcoholism -- It doesn't act like a disease
Alcoholism -- It doesn't act like a disease
Ecstasy Facts
Ecstasy or MDMA is a synthetic, psychoactive (mind-altering) drug with hallucinogenic and amphetamine-like properties. Its chemical structure is similar to two other synthetic drugs, MDA and methamphetamine, which are known to cause brain damage.
Ecstasy or MDMA is a synthetic, psychoactive (mind-altering) drug with hallucinogenic and amphetamine-like properties. Its chemical structure is similar to two other synthetic drugs, MDA and methamphetamine, which are known to cause brain damage.
Crack Cocaine Bags
Small bags of crack cocaine, ready for sale.
Small bags of crack cocaine, ready for sale.
State DUI Laws
Laws regarding drunk driving vary from state to state. These pages explain the highlights of the laws of each state in the U.S. for driving under the influence, driving while intoxicated or operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
Laws regarding drunk driving vary from state to state. These pages explain the highlights of the laws of each state in the U.S. for driving under the influence, driving while intoxicated or operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
Does Treatment Work?
Alcoholism treatment is effective in many cases.
Alcoholism treatment is effective in many cases.
Alcoholism Is a Family Disease
Alcoholism is a disease that can affect every member of the family even if they do not realize they are being affected at the time.
Alcoholism is a disease that can affect every member of the family even if they do not realize they are being affected at the time.
Al-Anon Topics
These are topics which frequently are of interest to newcomers to Al-Anon Family Groups.
These are topics which frequently are of interest to newcomers to Al-Anon Family Groups.
Alcohol and Behavior Problems
Adolescents, age 12 to 17, who use alcohol are more likely to report behavioral problems, especially aggressive, delinquent and criminal behaviors.
Adolescents, age 12 to 17, who use alcohol are more likely to report behavioral problems, especially aggressive, delinquent and criminal behaviors.
Addiction Treatment FAQs
The following are the most frequently asked questions about drug addiction treatment, compiled by the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
The following are the most frequently asked questions about drug addiction treatment, compiled by the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Getting Help for Drug Addic...
Finding the right treatment program involves careful consideration of such things as the setting, length of care, philosophical approach and your or your loved one's needs.
Finding the right treatment program involves careful consideration of such things as the setting, length of care, philosophical approach and your or your loved one's needs.
What Drugs are Abused?
Theses drugs and substances are the most commonly abused in the United States, according to the National Institute of Drug Abuse.
Theses drugs and substances are the most commonly abused in the United States, according to the National Institute of Drug Abuse.
Crystal Meth Closeup
Closeup Picture of Crystal Meth
Closeup Picture of Crystal Meth
Alcoholism - Is it Inherited?
There is a growing body of scientific evidence that alcoholism has a genetic component.
There is a growing body of scientific evidence that alcoholism has a genetic component.
What is Drug Addiction?
It is characterized by compulsive, at times uncontrollable, drug craving, seeking, and use that persist even in the face of extremely negative consequences.
It is characterized by compulsive, at times uncontrollable, drug craving, seeking, and use that persist even in the face of extremely negative consequences.
Types of Alcohol Problems?
It is important to note that alcohol problems occur along a continuum of severity.
It is important to note that alcohol problems occur along a continuum of severity.
Latest News
The latest headlines on drug- and- alcohol-related news, updated by your About.com Alcoholism Guide.
The latest headlines on drug- and- alcohol-related news, updated by your About.com Alcoholism Guide.
Can I Help an Alcoholic?
An alcoholic cannot be forced to get help except under certain circumstances, such as when a violent incident results in police being called or following a medical emergency.
An alcoholic cannot be forced to get help except under certain circumstances, such as when a violent incident results in police being called or following a medical emergency.
Smuggled Cocaine
Bulk packages of smuggled cocaine.
Bulk packages of smuggled cocaine.
Baggies of Cocaine
Baggies of cocaine ready for sale.
Baggies of cocaine ready for sale.
Personal Recovery Stories
Visitors share their experience strength and hope with stories of their person journey in recovery.
Visitors share their experience strength and hope with stories of their person journey in recovery.
Marijuana Ready for Sale
Small quanity of marijuana ready for sale.
Small quanity of marijuana ready for sale.
Ecstasy Pills
Picture of Ecstasy Pills
Picture of Ecstasy Pills
Heavy Drinking Dangers
Two more research studies have emphasized the serious health effects of long-term heavy drinking, from an increased risk for having accidents to developing liver cancer.
Two more research studies have emphasized the serious health effects of long-term heavy drinking, from an increased risk for having accidents to developing liver cancer.
Effects of PCP?
Its sedative and anesthetic effects are trance-like, and patients experience a feeling of being "out of body" and detached from their environment.
Its sedative and anesthetic effects are trance-like, and patients experience a feeling of being "out of body" and detached from their environment.
Alcohol Liver Disease
He knew the only way to save his life was to stop drinking, but he just couldn't stop, no matter how he tried.
He knew the only way to save his life was to stop drinking, but he just couldn't stop, no matter how he tried.
Children of Alcoholics - Are They Different?
An estimated 6.6 million children under the age of 18 years live in households with at least one alcoholic parent.
An estimated 6.6 million children under the age of 18 years live in households with at least one alcoholic parent.
Acute Alcohol Poisoning
Do you know what to do if one of your friends becomes unconscious?
Do you know what to do if one of your friends becomes unconscious?
Self-Assessment Tests
Alcohol and drug use can progress into abuse and even addition so insidiously that sometimes people do not realize that their drinking or drugging has become a real problem for them and those around them.
Alcohol and drug use can progress into abuse and even addition so insidiously that sometimes people do not realize that their drinking or drugging has become a real problem for them and those around them.
Cocaine Bricks
Kilogram bricks of cocaine with a scorpion logo.
Kilogram bricks of cocaine with a scorpion logo.
Alcoholism - QuickTips
An index of QuickTips for the Alcoholism guide site.
An index of QuickTips for the Alcoholism guide site.
Alcohol Withdrawal - Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome
The alcohol withdrawal syndrome is a cluster of symptoms observed in persons who stop drinking alcohol following continuous and heavy consumption.
The alcohol withdrawal syndrome is a cluster of symptoms observed in persons who stop drinking alcohol following continuous and heavy consumption.
Children of Alcoholics
Growing up in home with an active alcoholic can affect how a child looks at life and almost everything in it even years after childhood.
Growing up in home with an active alcoholic can affect how a child looks at life and almost everything in it even years after childhood.
Domestic Abuse
Whether alcohol and drug abuse is a factor or not, domestic violence and abuse is a very serious problem -- for the victims and the abusers
Whether alcohol and drug abuse is a factor or not, domestic violence and abuse is a very serious problem -- for the victims and the abusers
Detachment
For the friends and family of the alcoholic, the key to serenity is finding the wisdom to know the difference between what they can and cannot change and detaching with love.
For the friends and family of the alcoholic, the key to serenity is finding the wisdom to know the difference between what they can and cannot change and detaching with love.
Short Alcohol Tests
Although there are hundreds of alcohol screening tests available, including some elaborate ones with up to 100 questions, short screening tests with only a few questions have been developed to encourage diagnosis in primary and emergency health-care situations.
Although there are hundreds of alcohol screening tests available, including some elaborate ones with up to 100 questions, short screening tests with only a few questions have been developed to encourage diagnosis in primary and emergency health-care situations.
The Many Facets of Enabling
If you find your self locked in to playing a role in the alcoholic's life, maybe it's time to call time out and examine the consequencies of your actions.
If you find your self locked in to playing a role in the alcoholic's life, maybe it's time to call time out and examine the consequencies of your actions.
Are You Addicted?
Not everyone who uses drugs becomes addicted, but substance abuse can cause problems for individuals whether they are technically addicted or not. There are different levels of substance abuse, and all of them can be dangerous.
Not everyone who uses drugs becomes addicted, but substance abuse can cause problems for individuals whether they are technically addicted or not. There are different levels of substance abuse, and all of them can be dangerous.
Domestic Abuse and Alcohol
Statistics seem to indicate a connection between alcohol and drug abuse and domestic violence, but others question a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
Statistics seem to indicate a connection between alcohol and drug abuse and domestic violence, but others question a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Cognitive Behavior Therapy is mostly used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, phobias, delusional disorder and other mental disorders, but it has also been shown to be valuable in treating alcoholism and drug addiction.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy is mostly used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, phobias, delusional disorder and other mental disorders, but it has also been shown to be valuable in treating alcoholism and drug addiction.
Marijuana Growing Indoors
Marijuana plants growing indoors.
Marijuana plants growing indoors.
Alcohol's Health Effects
Find out how alcohol can affect your health.
Find out how alcohol can affect your health.
Workplace Drug Testing
If you plan to use alcohol and drug testing as a part of a workplace substance abuse policy, there are many legal issues that must first be addressed.
If you plan to use alcohol and drug testing as a part of a workplace substance abuse policy, there are many legal issues that must first be addressed.
Alcohol and Tolerance - Developing a Tolerance for Alcohol
Tolerance means that after continued drinking, consumption of a constant amount of alcohol produces a lesser effect.
Tolerance means that after continued drinking, consumption of a constant amount of alcohol produces a lesser effect.
Heavy Marijuana Use
A vast amount of scientific research has shown that heavy marijuana use negatively effects smokers' learning abilities and social skills, causing problems in their daily lives and compounding their existing problems.
A vast amount of scientific research has shown that heavy marijuana use negatively effects smokers' learning abilities and social skills, causing problems in their daily lives and compounding their existing problems.
Al-Anon Test
Millions of people are affected by the excessive drinking of someone close. The following questions are designed to help you decide whether or not you need Al-Anon.
Millions of people are affected by the excessive drinking of someone close. The following questions are designed to help you decide whether or not you need Al-Anon.
Black Tar Heroin
Black Tar Heroin
Black Tar Heroin
Family Intervention (Part 1)
Sometimes when the alcoholic's problems reach the crisis level, the only choice left to his family is professional intervention.
Sometimes when the alcoholic's problems reach the crisis level, the only choice left to his family is professional intervention.
Pot Impairs Male Fertility
Men who smoke marijuana frequently have significantly less seminal fluid, a lower total sperm count and their sperm behave abnormally, all of which may affect fertility adversely.
Men who smoke marijuana frequently have significantly less seminal fluid, a lower total sperm count and their sperm behave abnormally, all of which may affect fertility adversely.
Alcohol and Diabetes
Some people who have diabetes can safely drink moderate amounts of alcohol, but for others any amount of alcohol intake can have very negative health consequences.
Some people who have diabetes can safely drink moderate amounts of alcohol, but for others any amount of alcohol intake can have very negative health consequences.
Marijuan Myths
Use of marijuana has adverse health, safety, social, academic, economic, and behavioral consequences -- and children are the most vulnerable to its damaging effects.
Use of marijuana has adverse health, safety, social, academic, economic, and behavioral consequences -- and children are the most vulnerable to its damaging effects.
Pot Doesn't Cause Permanent...
An analysis of research studies with long-term, recreational users of marijuana has failed to reveal a substantial, systematic effect on the neurocognitive functioning of users.
An analysis of research studies with long-term, recreational users of marijuana has failed to reveal a substantial, systematic effect on the neurocognitive functioning of users.
Non-Alcoholic Beer
Those trying to abstain from alcohol are warned against the use of non-alcoholic beer, now there may be scientific evidence to support the admonition
Those trying to abstain from alcohol are warned against the use of non-alcoholic beer, now there may be scientific evidence to support the admonition
Alcohol and Sleep - Drinking Alcohol and Sleep
Alcohol consumption can induce sleep disorders by disrupting the sequence and duration of sleep states and by altering total sleep time.
Alcohol consumption can induce sleep disorders by disrupting the sequence and duration of sleep states and by altering total sleep time.
Denial
One of the most frustrating factors in dealing with alcoholism, as a relative, friend or professional, is it is almost always accompanied by a phenomenon known as denial.
One of the most frustrating factors in dealing with alcoholism, as a relative, friend or professional, is it is almost always accompanied by a phenomenon known as denial.
Types of Alcoholics
Dispelling the myth of the typical alcoholic, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism researchers have identified five subtypes of alcoholics from a study of 1,484 people.
Dispelling the myth of the typical alcoholic, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism researchers have identified five subtypes of alcoholics from a study of 1,484 people.
Al-Anon Conference Approved Literature
Of all the 12-step programs, Al-Anon Family Groups has probably the most extensive library of Conference Approved Literature.
Of all the 12-step programs, Al-Anon Family Groups has probably the most extensive library of Conference Approved Literature.
Different Types of Hepatitis?
There are 5 types of hepatitis - A, B, C, D, and E - each caused by a different hepatitis virus.
There are 5 types of hepatitis - A, B, C, D, and E - each caused by a different hepatitis virus.
What Is Alcohol Abuse?
Alcohol abuse differs from alcoholism in that it does not include an extremely strong craving for alcohol, loss of control, or physical dependence.
Alcohol abuse differs from alcoholism in that it does not include an extremely strong craving for alcohol, loss of control, or physical dependence.
Campral Treatment
Campral (acamprosate calcium) is the most recent medication approved for the treatment of alcohol dependence or alcoholism in the United States -- approved by the Food and Drug Administration in July 2004 -- but it has been used widely in Europe for many years.
Campral (acamprosate calcium) is the most recent medication approved for the treatment of alcohol dependence or alcoholism in the United States -- approved by the Food and Drug Administration in July 2004 -- but it has been used widely in Europe for many years.
Al-Anon Meetings by State
The definitive source for finding lists of face-to-face Al-Anon meetings on the net.
The definitive source for finding lists of face-to-face Al-Anon meetings on the net.
Crystal Meth
Picture of Methamphetamine Crystals
Picture of Methamphetamine Crystals
Asian Heroin
Brown and White Asian Heroin
Brown and White Asian Heroin
Health Risks for Women
Women who abuse alcohol, or even occassionally drink to excess, face greater risks to their health than their male counterparts.
Women who abuse alcohol, or even occassionally drink to excess, face greater risks to their health than their male counterparts.
What Do We Mean By Alcoholism?
Alcoholism, also known as "alcohol dependence," is a disease that includes alcohol craving and continued drinking despite repeated alcohol-related problems.
Alcoholism, also known as "alcohol dependence," is a disease that includes alcohol craving and continued drinking despite repeated alcohol-related problems.
Ice Methamphetamine
Bag of Ice Methamphetamine
Bag of Ice Methamphetamine
Processed Marijuana
Processed marijuana buds seized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Processed marijuana buds seized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
How is Marijuana Harmful?
Marijuana can be harmful in a number of ways, through both immediate effects and damage to health over time.
Marijuana can be harmful in a number of ways, through both immediate effects and damage to health over time.
Meth and Meth Pipe
Picture of Ice Methamphetamine and Pipe
Picture of Ice Methamphetamine and Pipe
A Test for Alcoholism?
A good first step is to answer the brief questionnaire below, developed by Dr. John Ewing.
A good first step is to answer the brief questionnaire below, developed by Dr. John Ewing.
Substance Abuse at Work
Alcohol and drug abuse by employees cause many expensive problems for business and industry ranging from lost productivity, injuries, and an increase the health insurance claims.
Alcohol and drug abuse by employees cause many expensive problems for business and industry ranging from lost productivity, injuries, and an increase the health insurance claims.
Health Effects of Drugs
Use or abuse of other drugs, be they legal or illegal, can create a wide variety of mental and physical health problems.
Use or abuse of other drugs, be they legal or illegal, can create a wide variety of mental and physical health problems.
Effects of MDMA?
MDMA has become a popular drug, in part because of the positive effects that a person experiences within an hour or so after taking a single dose.
MDMA has become a popular drug, in part because of the positive effects that a person experiences within an hour or so after taking a single dose.
Marijuana's Harm
Young people who do not smoke marijuana end up with a better quality of life and higher levels of educational achievement than their peers who do smoke marijuana. Those who do smoke pot early in life have lower incomes and greater health problems later in life, according to a study.
Young people who do not smoke marijuana end up with a better quality of life and higher levels of educational achievement than their peers who do smoke marijuana. Those who do smoke pot early in life have lower incomes and greater health problems later in life, according to a study.