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Addiction

Addiction: 5 Ways Psychiatrists Can Help

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addiction

Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Addiction is a complex condition that affects millions of individuals and their families worldwide. Whether it’s substance abuse, gambling, or other compulsive behaviors, addictions can significantly impact a person’s life, leading to physical, emotional, and social challenges. However, there is hope. With the right support and treatment, recovery is possible. This is where addiction psychiatrists play a crucial role. What is Addiction? Addiction is characterized by an inability to stop using a substance or engaging in a behavior despite negative consequences. It often stems from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Common types of addictions include: Substance Use Disorders: Including alcohol, prescription drugs, and illegal substances. Behavioral Addictions: Such as gambling, internet use, or shopping. Recognizing the signs of addiction is the first step toward seeking help. Symptoms may include withdrawal from …

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Nursing License in Jeopardy: Help and Support

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addiction

Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry As a dedicated nurse, the thought of your nursing license being in jeopardy can be overwhelming and frightening. Whether due to personal issues, workplace conflicts, or regulatory challenges, the consequences can be significant—not just for your career but for your mental and emotional well-being. Fortunately, you don’t have to navigate this crisis alone. Services like those offered by the Mental Health Center can provide invaluable support during this difficult time. Understanding the Stakes Your nursing license is not just a piece of paper; it represents years of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to patient care. When faced with the potential loss of your license, the stress and anxiety can be debilitating, leading to feelings of isolation and fear of judgment. Common Reasons for License Jeopardy Several factors can put your nursing license at …

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National Fentanyl Awareness Day 2024

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addiction

By Ashley Barnes, M.S. National Fentanyl Awareness Day 2024 May 7, 2024 is the third annual National Fentanyl Awareness Day. This day unites parents, teachers,  individuals, community groups, corporations, influencers, and government entities to help put an end to this national public health crisis. People, notably young people, are taking illicitly manufactured fentanyl without even being aware and dying at frightening rates as a result. “Last year, over 70,000 Americans fatally overdosed on illegally made fentanyl. Fentanyl is now found in fake pills and many street drugs, but users are often unaware that their drugs contain the potent opioid. This is an urgent public health crisis that puts all of us, and our loved ones, at risk. We all must play a role in preventing further tragedies” (National Fentanyl Awareness Day, 2024) What is Fentanyl? Fentanyl is a Schedule II narcotic under the United States Controlled Substances Act of 1970 …

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Understanding the Anxiety and Alcoholism Cycle

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man worried, experiencing symptoms of anxiety and alcoholism cycle

Drinking alcohol is a coping method for some people struggling with anxiety. When someone first starts drinking, alcohol relieves the symptoms of anxiety and makes them feel good. However, short and long-term alcohol misuse can lead to more stress, which then leads to more alcohol misuse. A troubling alcohol-anxiety cycle develops and affects a person’s physical and mental health. Many individuals find themselves caught in a troubling cycle where anxiety leads to alcohol use as a coping mechanism, which in turn exacerbates anxiety, creating a vicious cycle. This cycle can be challenging to break, as the temporary relief provided by alcohol often leads to increased dependence and potentially more severe anxiety symptoms, complicating recovery efforts. Understanding the dynamics of the anxiety and alcoholism cycle is crucial. Recognizing the triggers and effects can empower individuals to seek appropriate intervention strategies, such as therapy, medication, or support groups, which are designed to …

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National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week 2024

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National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week

By Ashley Barnes, M.S. National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week 2024 The Drug Enforcement Administration supports the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) during their annual National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (NDAFW®) which has been held since 2010. NDAFW brings scientific experts and teens together to discuss the scientific facts about drugs, as well as their potential health effects on teen bodies and brains.  The week-long observance will be held March 18-24, 2024. Substance Use and the Teen Brain “As adolescents mature, they undergo complex developmental changes, especially in their brains. The widespread changes in the organization and functioning of the brain—which continue into a person’s mid-20s—bring about the cognitive, emotional, and social skills necessary for adolescents to survive and thrive. The nature of these rapid changes may also increase the adolescent brain’s vulnerability to alcohol exposure” (U.S. Department …

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