Many Americans struggle with addiction every day, including Texans. The cycle of addiction affects not only the individual but also their loved ones and communities. To break this cycle requires understanding, compassion, and a structured approach to recovery. Recognizing the signs your body needs detox from alcohol or drugs is the first step. If you…
Depressant drugs, often referred to as central nervous system (CNS) depressants, are substances that reduce the activity of the brain and body, leading to a state of relaxation or sedation. These drugs are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. By slowing down the operation of the brain, depressants can help to alleviate symptoms…
Both internal and external things can contribute to stress and depression; however, it is vital to recognize how our perception and overall mindset can impact our mental well-being. With regard to perception, what’s most significant is the way that we perceive ourselves and the things happening in our lives. The great news is we can…
WHAT IS ADDICTION? The American Society of Addiction Medicine defines addiction as a “treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences. People with addiction use substances or engage in behaviors that become compulsive and often continue despite harmful consequences”. WHAT DOES AN ADDICTION TO…
Openly talking about addiction and actively listening for responses are some of the most significant ways you can help someone with an addiction. Opening these conversations around addiction isn’t especially easy; read on for tips to get this necessary conversation going. OVERALL: Know it is okay to have this conversation. Realistically multiple conversations will likely…
Everyone experiences stress, anxiety, or complex events throughout life. Our bodies and minds have natural responses for handling and processing these experiences. However, when our coping and processing systems are overwhelmed, we experience trauma. Trauma is a deeply distressing or disturbing experience. It can be caused by a physically and/or emotionally harmful event. The event…
Alcohol is an embedded part of American culture. Many everyday cultural events include alcohol—a wedding reception, a regular guys’ or girls’ night out, a standing after-work happy hour, or a Super Bowl party. Drinking socially is an accepted and expected part of life for many Americans, but it is not without risk. For many people,…
Having an alcoholic in your life can be challenging and disruptive. The behavior of a person struggling with addiction can cause tremendous harm to relationships, especially if they are lying on a regular basis. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic condition marked by an inability to control or stop alcohol consumption despite negative consequences…
Cocaine is a familiar illicit drug that has been popular for decades. Often playing a prominent role in movies and television, the drug has achieved widespread and mainstream recognition. However, cocaine addiction is a serious condition that has profound impacts on individuals and society as a whole. With its highly addictive nature, cocaine use can…
WHAT IS SASH? SASH, The Society for the Advancement of Sexual Health (SASH), is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting an integrative approach to sexual health research, education and intervention that addresses the full spectrum, from problematic attitudes and behaviors to the pursuit of fulfillment, freedom and pleasure. SASH envisions a world where we can…