Withdrawal: How Does it Maintain Drug Addiction?

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• What is Withdrawal?
• What are the Signs and Symptoms of Withdrawal?
• How to Deal with Withdrawal

  By its very nature, drug addiction is not something you can get rid of very easily. The condition itself compels you to keep taking your substance of choice, or maybe even experiment with other drugs you haven’t tried yet. But it’s not like getting high on drugs is worth the pain caused by the adverse effects of addiction. Some people can’t quit, simply because they can’t quit. It’s physically impossible for them to do so. It’s not just the compelling aspect of drug abuse that’s preventing them from getting better. There is another element that maintains their drug addiction—and it’s what we’re going to talk about today. This article is all about withdrawal, and how it maintains drug addiction.

What is Withdrawal?

To understand withdrawal, you need to know about the concept of dependence. When a person abuses a substance, they slowly become dependent on it. It’s like a step up from drug tolerance. A person takes large doses of a drug to get high and become euphoric. In the process, their body learns to adapt to its presence, lessening the effects of the drug over time. Once they become tolerant, the user will try to recreate the sensations they used to feel by taking more and more of the drug. After a while, the person becomes physically dependent on the drug. At this point, their body has grown used to having the substance, and now reacts negatively when it is not detected in the system. Withdrawal is what we call the negative reaction that happens when a dependent person attempts to quit the drug abruptly. Withdrawal prevents a person from actively pursuing sobriety. Some may get discouraged by it and stop trying altogether. Some people see it as a wakeup call and start seeking professional help. If you are physically dependent on a substance, it is never a good idea to try and quit on your own, especially if you do it abruptly, because withdrawal can be fatal.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Withdrawal?

Dealing with withdrawal is very difficult. Trying to manage it on your own is dangerous, and can only lead to relapse. Drug dependent individuals won’t be able to function normally without taking it. They will also feel intense cravings whenever they go for extended periods without it. Identifying the symptoms of withdrawal can help you understand what to do about it. Withdrawal symptoms may vary depending on the person’s drug of choice, health condition, and substance abuse history. But common withdrawal symptoms include nausea, vomiting, irritability, anxiety, insomnia, sweating, hot flashes, weakness, body aches, headaches, and coma. [maxbutton id="2" ]

How to Deal with Withdrawal

The best way to deal with withdrawal—and addiction itself—is to seek professional treatment. The addicted person will need a combination medical detox and behavioral therapy in order to safely manage their dependence. During rehab, the patient’s drug intake will be lowered gradually, so that withdrawal symptoms don’t become deadly. These symptoms will be treated by experience medical staff. The patient will also learn various ways to stay sober through techniques like counseling and addiction education. If you or someone you care about is suffering from addiction, dependence, and withdrawal, you should know that all hope is not yet lost. It’s hard to beat addiction, but it’s certainly possible. Look for an addiction treatment center near you and fight the effects of drug abuse today!

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Is Alcoholism Hereditary?

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• Alcoholism, Genetics, and Heredity
• Other Causes of Alcoholism

  It is said that approximately 18 million adults in the US are struggling with alcohol use disorder. Based on this statistic, one in 12 individuals is an alcoholic. No matter how accurate that statistic is, there’s no denying that alcoholism is a major problem in the country—and in many other parts of the world. Around 100,000 people die each year due to alcohol abuse. These deaths are due to liver cirrhosis and organ damage. Heavy drinkers are at risk of diabetes, kidney disease, and several cancers. Drunk driving is also a common cause of traffic accidents. Alcohol use disorder is a serious disease that’s often described as the addiction to alcohol. It’s a chronic condition that affects the reward and motivation centers of the brain. For this reason, it is important to know what causes alcoholism, and why it affects certain people. On this article, we will discuss the connection between genetics, heredity, and alcohol consumption. What makes drinkers more likely to get addicted? Let’s find out.

Alcoholism, Genetics, and Heredity

Parents pass their genes down to their children. This is what connects genetics to heredity. However, if we want to get technical, genetic diseases and hereditary diseases are not actually the same. Genetic diseases involve abnormalities in a person’s genome. Hereditary diseases are caused by a genetic mutation received from a parent’s DNA. This is why scientists often question whether alcoholism is a genetic or hereditary disease.  We can say that it’s a bit of both. Genetics certainly play a key role in someone’s predisposition when it comes to metabolizing alcohol. If your body processes alcohol in a way that makes the desirable effects more prominent than the adverse side effects, then you are more likely to suffer from alcohol use disorder. Contrast that with someone who experiences it the other way around—their genetics prevent them from enjoying alcohol as much. Heredity also plays a role in developing alcoholism. Children of alcoholics have an increased chance of struggling with alcohol abuse later in life. Family history of alcoholism has been statistically linked to the increased risk of alcohol use disorder. While this may or may not have something to do with genes being passed from the parents to their children, environment surely has something to do with it. Interestingly, having extended relatives who are struggling with alcohol abuse does not have the same effect on children as having alcoholic parents. Children of alcoholic parents have a three to four times greater risk of becoming alcoholic themselves.

Other Causes of Alcoholism

Although these factors can explain why some people are more likely to become alcoholic compared to others, there are other potential causes of alcohol use disorder. And just because you “have it in your genes” doesn’t mean you are doomed to an ill fate. Controlling your alcohol intake is one way to avoid it. Here are other common causes of alcoholism. Environment: We mentioned this earlier, but if you live in an environment wherein people drink frequently, you are more likely to do so yourself. This only increases your chances of getting hooked on alcohol. Gender: Men typically drink more than women. In recent years, however, women are beginning to drink more frequently. [maxbutton id="3" ] Drinking Age: People who started drinking earlier are more likely to develop alcohol use disorder. This may also be due to the fact that they can develop tolerance at a much younger age. Mental Health: Psychiatric conditions such as depression, ADHD, and anxiety could cause a person to drink more frequently. That is because people who suffer from these conditions are likely to “self-medicate” and use alcohol to escape their problems. Stress: Speaking of escaping one’s problems, alcohol is usually used that way. It helps you forget your problems for a while—not that it’s a good solution for anything. Alcoholism is hard to beat, but it’s certainly possible with the help of medical experts and therapists. Look for an alcohol addiction facility near you today!

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What is a High Functioning Alcoholic?

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• What Is a High-Functioning Alcoholic?
• How To Help the Alcoholic?

  It can be difficult to deal with the issues of a high functioning alcoholic. For starters, having an alcoholic in the family is already a stressful thing to handle. A high functioning alcoholic is even more difficult because their condition is quite confusing to most people. What exactly is a high functioning alcoholic? No matter how well a person functions in day to day life, alcoholism can take a devastating toll on their health, their emotional well-being, their professional life, and their relationships. So we must treat a high functioning alcoholic’s condition with as much care as a regular alcoholic. What makes this situation more challenging is that they may hide their alcohol abuse for years without suffering any major setbacks. Even the alcoholic himself may not realize that they have a drinking problem. But over time, they can develop severe psychological and emotional damage. That is why the problem needs to be addressed now.

What Is a High-Functioning Alcoholic?

When we think about alcoholism, we pict iure someone whos struggling to get their life together as a result of their drinking habits. It is a disease that can prevent a person from living a full life if not managed correctly. But alcoholism isn’t always like this. There are people affected by this condition who can still live a normal life. Either way, both of these categories involve individuals who cannot control their drinking. They don’t know when to stop. They drink alone, or in the middle of the day, or even try to hide their drinking. High functioning alcoholics don’t fall into the stereotype of someone whose life is in total disarray due to drinking. But the fact remains that alcohol is slowly destroying their body. They may excel at work and maintain good relationships with family and friends—but that doesn’t mean they have their drinking under control. In fact, their success may cause them to think that they are perfectly fine. This isn’t the case. Eventually, the effects of alcoholism will catch up with them. If you are dealing with a high functioning alcoholic, it can be frustrating to see that they are in denial about their problem. They will use their success to cover up the consequences of their drinking. They need to recognize that they have a disease and it needs to be treated properly.

How To Help the Alcoholic?

They get the job done, they pay the bills, and they drink. This doesn’t make excessive drinking okay. Do not enable their behavior and do not tolerate bad decisions. You must play an active role in building a healthier future for your family, and you can do this through an intervention. Seek support from others who may be going through the same struggles. High functioning alcoholics aren’t all that special: at least 20 percent of all alcoholics may be classified as high functioning. It will be easy for you to find people who are going through the same problems. The alcoholic should know that they are not alone—but they must also realize that they have a drinking problem. Through an intervention, you can finally convince the alcoholic to admit that they have a problem. You must let them realize the consequences of high functioning alcoholism—even when they don’t see it yet. You have to try and convince them to seek help for alcohol abuse. [maxbutton id="2" ] An intervention typically involves getting the alcoholic to see how drinking has harmed their loved ones, as well as themselves. Present a plan for recovery so they won’t feel so hopeless about the situation. And finally seek professional help. They need medical attention. Their body has to be detoxified properly in order to avoid withdrawal. Long term abuse of alcohol can lead to physical dependence, and quitting alcohol abruptly can cause fatal withdrawal. Let them know the consequences of refusing to seek treatment, and have them agree to it. Finally, help them through the recovery process as it will be a very difficult time for them. With your support, they can get through this challenge in no time. Look for an alcohol addiction treatment facility near you today and help your loved one get on the path to sobriety.

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Understanding Alcohol Addiction: What is an Alcoholic?

  Navigation: What is Alcohol Abuse? What is Alcoholism? How is It Treated?   Drinking is something we do with friends, loved ones, and sometimes even total strangers. Social drinking is so deeply ingrained in our culture that it’s hard to imagine a world without it. And drinking is done in many cultures all over the world. Like all good things, drinking becomes bad when you have too much of it; when you don’t know when to stop. Because of how common this activity is, it can be difficult to tell who’s abusing alcohol, and who’s just having a good time. Alcohol abuse, alcoholism, and alcohol dependence are all confusing terms that sound similar, but actually have different meanings. It doesn’t help that there are so called binge drinkers and high functioning alcoholics. How are all these terms different from one another? How do you know if your loved one is abusing alcohol? The line between recreational drinking and alcohol quickly gets blurred. Where does abuse end and addiction begin? Let’s define what alcoholism is so we can understand how to help those who are struggling with it.

What is Alcohol Abuse?

A person who abuses alcohol is someone who displays many characteristics of an alcoholic, but is still in control of their intake. They have a drinking problem. They should take it down a notch. But they can still limit their consumption somewhat. Alcoholism doesn’t just happen overnight though. We can say that alcohol abuse is the first step towards it. So no, just because someone binges on drinks every now and then doesn’t mean they are an alcoholic. Not technically. Getting intoxicated is something people seek out recreationally. It doesn’t make them an alcoholic. Some people black out, or start vomiting, or have intense hangovers after having one drink too many—it still doesn’t make them an alcoholic. But these people with intense drinking habits are surely on their way. Alcoholism has to start somewhere.

What is Alcoholism?

Alcoholism is generally defined as a serious medical condition that means the person is overly dependent on alcoholic drinks. At this point they have completely lost control and have no intention of limiting their consumption. Perhaps they’ve already become dependent or addicted. Dependence means that they have built up so much tolerance for alcohol that their system already considers it a normal part of everyday life. Quitting at this point can lead to severe or fatal withdrawal. Addiction is the compulsive need to drink. An alcoholic’s life may begin to revolve around obtaining and consuming alcohol. It’s just like drug addiction, except we’re substituting the word “drug” with alcohol. The alcoholic will begin neglecting their responsibilities. They may lose interest in hobbies and activities that used to bring them joy. Of course, alcohol destroys a person’s body. It also affects them psychologically and emotionally. Most alcoholics also suffer financially, because their drinking habits get in the way of their career. On an interesting note, a high functioning alcoholic may not have to deal with these same struggles. They can still hold down a stable job and maintain happy relationships—but the fact is that they still have no control over their alcohol consumption. Their success and productivity might even lead them to believe their drinking habits are still under control. They’ll find that the effects of alcoholism will catch up with them eventually—that is if they don’t seek help. [maxbutton id="3" ]

How is It Treated?

It’s going to be a difficult journey ahead, but alcoholism can be treated. It is done with a combination of medical detox and behavioral therapy. The latter often comes in the form of support groups and individual therapy sessions. Medical professionals will be able to lower the person’s intake while dealing with their withdrawal. This is the best way to deal with long term alcohol abuse and addiction. Look for a rehab facility near you today and help your loved one started on the path towards recovery.

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Signs and Symptoms of Alcoholism: Things to Watch Out For

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• Signs of Intoxication
• Signs of Alcoholism
• Signs of Alcohol Dependence
• Signs of Withdrawal

  Alcoholism is a serious medical disease. But because of the fact that drinking alcohol is a very common social activity, it can be hard to determine who’s abusing alcohol and who’s just having a great time. Not to mention that there are also high functioning alcoholics—the whole thing just gets more and more confusing. So how do you know if someone is an alcoholic? Here are the signs and symptoms you should look out for. Watch out for these, especially if you think one of your loved ones is an alcoholic.

Signs of Intoxication

Just because someone is intoxicated, doesn’t automatically mean they are an alcoholic. Overconsumption of alcohol can lead to intoxication—but not all people who black out after binging are alcoholics. The signs of overconsumption are easily recognizable: slurred speech, clumsiness, delayed reflexes, facial redness, vomiting, and blacking out. Now consider this: even if you are not an alcoholic, it is possible to reach a life threatening level of intoxication. The respiratory system can become depressed, and the person will stop breathing.

Signs of Alcoholism

You can tell that a person is alcoholic if they can no longer control their intake. They will drink alone, or in the middle of the day. They don’t know how much is too much. And they will try to drink all of their problems away—on a daily basis. Every single thing that stresses them out will be managed by drinking. Alcoholism doesn’t happen overnight. It happens with increased frequency and quantity of alcohol consumption. Someone who is abusing alcohol will make it a central activity of their life. It can displace healthy relationships. They will even lose interest in hobbies that used to make them happy. They may begin prioritizing alcohol over their professional obligations and family responsibilities. An alcoholic is more likely to indulge in dangerous and illegal behaviors. They may get in trouble with the law, or get into an accident.

Signs of Alcohol Dependence

Untreated alcohol abuse can eventually lead to addiction. Long term abuse of alcoholic drinks can make a person dependent. When a person is physically dependent on alcohol, it means that their body has already adapted to the substance’s presence. Removing the substance from the system will cause a violent reaction. At this point, the person will have little control over the amount they consume. Obtaining and consuming alcohol will become the predominant focus of their life. Their tolerance will increase, and so they will begin to feel like they need to drink even more. They will repeatedly attempt to reduce their alcohol consumption—and they will repeatedly fail due to withdrawal symptoms and intense cravings. Alcohol abuse will develop into addiction.

Signs of Withdrawal

Attempting to quit on their own may cause severe withdrawal symptoms. It puts them at risk of serious medical consequences. They need proper medical supervision during the detox process if they want to drop their drinking habits safely. Common withdrawal symptoms associated with alcoholism are tremors, convulsions, anxiety, seizures, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, and hallucinations. [maxbutton id="2" ] Alcoholism can cause irreversible damage to critical organs in the body such as the liver, the heart, the stomach, and the brain. An intervention can go a long way in making the person realize that they have a drinking problem. They should see that their drinking habits are affecting their loved ones too. As difficult as it may seem, alcoholism can be beaten, and they can get sober again. You just have to support them all the way. Look for an alcohol addiction treatment center near you today.

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Living with a Functional Alcoholic: How to Help Them Get Sober

Having an alcoholic family member is difficult. It is perhaps not as difficult as struggling with alcoholism yourself, but it is nonetheless emotionally taxing. But some people have loved ones who are functional alcoholics. This does not make their situation any better. We can say that functional alcoholics may not be suffering financially because they are able to hold down a job. We can also say that there isn’t much effect on their relationships because they can maintain friendships. They may not be suffering as much as a regular alcoholic. But it does not hide the fact that their health and body is in danger. Having a high functioning alcoholic in the family is even more difficult because their condition is confusing for most people. Alcoholism can take a devastating toll on their health—and yet they won’t even admit that they have a problem. They don’t know that their problem is serious. They may not even realize that they have a drinking problem. But over time, they can develop serious psychological and emotional damage. And yet we must treat their condition with as much care as a regular alcoholic. We need to help them address this problem now. But how do we do it?

How to Help a High Functioning Alcoholic

The first step is understanding their condition. Alcoholism is a disease, regardless of how functional an individual is. But when we think about alcoholism, we picture someone whose life is in ruins because of their drinking habits. It’s important to see the other side of the coin: the alcoholic who isn’t struggling as much to get their life together—but drinks excessively nonetheless. In fact, 20 percent of all alcoholics can be classified as functional. This is not as uncommon as you think. A person who cannot control their drinking and doesn’t know when to stop is probably an alcoholic. They will drink in the middle of the day. The will drink alone. They will even try to hide their drinking. Their success and functionality may even give them the illusion that they are not alcoholic. It may convince them that they have their drinking under control, when it’s not the case. Understand what your loved one is going through. You have to know that there are people who don’t fall into the stereotype of the alcoholics we see on TV (and in real life). This does not mean they are not destroying their body with alcohol. The effects of alcoholism will eventually catch up with them. Do not enable their behavior, and do not tolerate bad decisions. It can be frustrating to help them, but you need to play an active role in building a healthier future for them. You can begin an intervention. You can gather their friends, family members and loved ones, and allow them to realize that their drinking habits have become a problem. You need to let them understand the consequences of drinking—even when they don’t see it yet. [maxbutton id="3" ] Convince them to seek help for alcohol abuse and set the ground rules and consequences if they refuse to do so. A person who has been drinking for a long time may have already developed dependence, meaning quitting abruptly may cause withdrawal. This is why they need to detoxify under the supervision of medical professionals. An intervention typically involves getting the alcoholic to see how drinking has harmed their loved ones, as well as themselves. Present a plan for recovery so they won’t feel so hopeless about the situation. With your support, they can get through this challenge in no time. Look for an alcohol addiction treatment facility near you today and help your loved one get on the path to sobriety.

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Facts About Alcoholism: What You Need to Know

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• Facts about Alcoholism
• Causes of Alcoholism
• Effects of Alcoholism

  Many people drink to forget their problems and feel better about themselves. But in the long run, they will only feel worse—if they abuse alcohol and get addicted, especially. For starters, alcohol slows down activity in the central nervous system, causing stress in chronic drinkers. That’s only the beginning of its long list of adverse effects. Alcoholics think that their behavior only affects them. What they don’t realize is that they also affect their loved ones, their friends, their co-workers, and even the community around them. Alcoholism even has an impact on the economy. Did you know that alcohol abuse and misuse cost the United States over 220 billion dollars every year? This covers medical costs, as well as property damage caused by drunk driving, among other public expenditures. If we look at it on an individual scale, an alcoholic can spend thousands of dollars per year on alcoholic drinks. It’s no surprise that they easily find themselves with financial problems. These are some of the facts you need to know about alcoholism. And there are plenty of other things you need to know about this condition. By understanding it thoroughly, we can begin to face one of society’s biggest problems.

Facts about Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a very common problem. In fact, alcohol is the most commonly abused drug in the US. According to the National Institutes of Health, 7.2 percent of American adults have an alcohol use disorder. This represents more than 27 million people. Alcoholism also affects men more than women. It is theorized that men receive a higher dopamine release in their brain while drinking, which makes it more pleasurable for them. But what exactly is alcoholism? And how is it different from a night of heavy drinking with friends? Binge drinkers are not alcoholics. The term alcoholic is used for those who have developed physical dependence on alcoholic substances.

Causes of Alcoholism

Alcoholism can be caused by a lot of things, but it doesn’t just pop out of nowhere. People don’t just become alcoholics after one drink. It’s progressive, meaning it develops over time. If a person continuously abuses large doses of alcohol, then they will eventually become dependent. It has a genetic component to it too: if you have an alcoholic parent or grandparent, you are four times more likely to develop alcoholism. This is also related to the fact that a person’s environments can affect their future drinking habits. [maxbutton id="3" ] Sometimes it’s just peer pressure. While the genetic cause is definitely true, there’s a social aspect to it too. A third of Americans aged 21 and above completely abstains from alcohol use. If your friends drink large amounts all the time, there’s a chance you’re not part of that percentage.

Effects of Alcoholism

If you develop dependence, then you won’t be able to quit drinking without going through withdrawal. And if you’ve been drinking for a long time, you should know that withdrawal symptoms can be fatal. It’s not wise to quit alcohol abruptly. It should be done with the aid of medical professionals, who can lower your intake gradually, over a period of time. That’s how detox works in rehab. And in most cases, rehab is necessary to one’s recovery/ Common physical symptoms of withdrawal include high fever and tremors. Over 88,000 people lose their lives due to alcohol each year—and that’s only in the US. Do not be a part of this statistic. Drink responsibly. But if you ever get addicted, don’t hesitate to seek help from medical professionals. It would be much safer that way.

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Definition of an Alcoholic: How Are They Different From Social Drinkers?

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• What is Alcoholism
• How to Help an Alcoholic Loved One

  Alcoholism is often misunderstood. People are not sure how to define it, so they categorize it with binge drinking and social drinking. But for those who have loved ones who are struggling with alcoholism, the differences are clear. Drinking is so deeply ingrained in our culture that it’s hard to imagine society without it. But people can drink without ever becoming an alcoholic. So it’s not the alcohol that’s the problem—it’s the inability to control drinking habits that is. That said, we shouldn’t be judgmental of those who are suffering from the effects of alcoholism. There are those that really want to change for the better, except they physically can’t. On this article we will shed light into alcoholism, and what makes an alcoholic. Understanding their situation is the first step towards helping them gain sobriety. With our help and support, we can allow them to take back their control over their own lives.

What is Alcoholism?

Alcoholism is a disease. It is defined by the habitual intake of alcohol, whether or not the person recognizes the negative effects it has on them. An alcoholic will keep on drinking even if it destroys them. High functioning alcoholics are no different. They will cope with all of life’s challenges by drinking. Some will attempt to drink their problems away, unaware of the bigger problem they are creating in the process. It interferes with their physical and mental health. Alcoholism’s effects go beyond the person’s reach. Their family members, their friends, their co-workers, and all of their acquaintances will begin to feel the impact of their drinking habits. It’s just like any other addiction. It takes control of your life and interferes with all of your decisions. It will affect a person’s career, their relationships, and their community. And all along the person will think they are only affecting themselves. [maxbutton id="2" ] What differentiates an alcoholic from a binge drinker is that they don’t know when to stop. They will drink alone, or in the middle of the day. They may even attempt to hide their drinking habits, or get angry when someone comments on it. In high doses, alcohol can cause loss of consciousness, impaired judgment, loss of coordination, and even death. If a person abuses alcohol for a long time, they will become dependent. Their body will get used to the substance’s presence, and they will find it much harder to quit. In fact, quitting abruptly might be too dangerous, because alcohol dependence can cause fatal withdrawal.

How to Help an Alcoholic Loved One

Alcoholism is a disease that needs to be treated properly. It’s a tough thing to deal with, but all hope is not lost. For people with alcoholic loved ones, it is important to know the limitations of what they can do. They cannot force a person to get sober—the desire to change must come from within, and loved ones can only support that decision. You cannot blame yourself if the alcoholic doesn’t want to change. But you also shouldn’t enable their behavior. It is better to let them deal with the consequences of their actions rather than allowing their bad behavior to continue. An intervention among family members can help them realize that there is a problem. But if you need to take it a step further, finding a nearby alcohol rehab facility will go a long way. Medical professionals will be able to detoxify them gradually by slowly lowering their intake and dealing with withdrawal symptoms. This works best when coupled with behavioral therapy and support group programs. Look for an alcoholism treatment center near you and help your loved one get back to living a sober life.

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What is an Alcoholic?

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• What is Alcohol Abuse?
• What is an Alcoholic?
• How is Alcoholism Treated?

  Social drinking is deeply ingrained into our culture, as well as many other cultures all over the world. It’s a normal thing to do with your friends and loved ones—sometimes, even with total strangers. But because of how common it is, it becomes difficult to identify who’s abusing it, and who’s just having fun. The line between recreational drinking and alcohol abuse becomes blurred. And it becomes even more challenging to tell alcoholism and alcohol abuse apart. Where does abuse end and where does addiction begin? On this article we will try to define what an alcoholic is. This way, we can gauge the situation of our loved ones, and even ourselves.

What is Alcohol Abuse?

A person who abuses alcohol is someone who displays only certain characteristics of an alcoholic, but is not yet dependent on it. They have a drinking problem, no doubt. But they have not yet completely lost their control. They can somewhat limit their consumption. Moderate alcohol consumption should not cause major impact on the person’s mind or body. But social drinking can lead to heavier alcohol consumption—which can eventually lead to alcohol abuse, and even alcoholism. With alcoholism comes serious health and psychological problems. So how do you know you’re already at that point?

What is an Alcoholic?

There are many ways to define alcoholism. We can say that it’s the term for long term addiction to alcohol. Therefore an alcoholic is simply someone who suffers from alcoholism. We can also say that it’s an illness or chronic disease wherein the person becomes obsessed with alcohol and cannot control how much they drink. But how do we know if someone is addicted? Alcoholism is defined as a physical compulsion coupled with a mental obsession. This means that if the person thinks about drinking, then they must drink. This is a condition that compels a person to consume alcohol beyond their capacity to control it. An alcoholic will keep on drinking regardless of how it affects their life. They won’t stop even if they’re already affecting the lives of the people around them. An alcoholic is prone to self-destructive behavior—and they normally wouldn’t be able to see it that way. In fact, the alcoholic is likely to be the last person to know that they are addicted to alcohol. Alcohol use disorder is a disease, and the World Health Organization reports around 3.3 million deaths globally every year because of it. The National Institute of Health reports that 15.1 million adults in the US have a drinking problem. [maxbutton id="2" ]   You’ll know that a person is an alcoholic if they cannot control how much they drink, and it’s beginning to cause them problems at home and at work. They will also drink alone or in secret—typically with no limit to how much alcohol they are drinking. The alcoholic person may also drop their hobbies as well as other activities they used to enjoy. They may prioritize drinking over their other responsibilities.

How is Alcoholism Treated?

Alcoholism can be treated, given that the person exerts enough effort towards their own recovery. The first step is to acknowledge the alcohol dependency problem and realize that it needs to be fixed. The next thing to do is seek help. There are many support groups and medical professionals who could help the person detoxify and get over their need for alcoholic drinks. They may go through counselling, medical detox, and residential programs to help them conquer their alcohol dependence. Look for a rehab facility near you today and get started on the path towards recovery.

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Living with an Alcoholic: What to Do

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• Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder
• What Not to Do
• What You Can Do

  It’s hard to deal with alcohol use disorder. It’s a disease that can ruin your life, your career, and your relationships. It affects you mentally and physically—and it affects the people you care about as well. But on this article we will be focusing on the other side of the coin. What if you’re not the one struggling with alcoholism? What if it’s someone you care about? How does alcoholism affect a person’s life if the alcoholic is someone close to them? And perhaps more importantly, what can you do?

Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder

If you want to help a family member who is an alcoholic, first you need to understand what you are up against. An individual who is addicted to alcohol will not know how to regulate their drinking habits. For long term drinkers, quitting feels impossible because their bodies have already adjusted to the presence of alcohol. It’s not a good idea to make them quit abruptly. But you also don’t have to feel alone. This disease affects millions of adults in the US, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Expect them to try and hide their condition by drinking in private or drinking alone. They may begin to neglect their responsibilities or lose interest in the old hobbies they used to enjoy. Drinking becomes a priority—or a solution to every problem. If you’re reading this guide, chances are you’ve already noticed these signs long ago. You are already aware of the problem. But the thing is, the alcoholic still doesn’t understand that their drinking habits also affect your family, and not just them. Or maybe they are a high-functioning alcoholic dealing with everyday stress by drinking it away. What can you do?

What Not to Do

Before we talk about what you could do, let’s acknowledge the things you should avoid doing. For starters, you should not blame yourself for the problem. There’s only so much you can do. And the ultimate decision to get sober is on them, unfortunately. You cannot change them. Do not attempt to control or cure it—you will only feel frustrated. With this in mind, you should not take up drinking yourself. This is not a situation wherein you “join them” because you can’t “beat them”. Do not cover up the problem, do not enable them, and instead allow them to experience the consequences of their own actions. Let them save themselves. [maxbutton id="3" ]  

What You Can Do

These steps are easier said than done; that we can assure you. Supporting your loved one through this dilemma can be tough. But you have to get help from others, specifically, medical professionals. Family members can plan an intervention to show the person how their habits are ruining their life. But beyond that, you’ll need the help of trained medical professionals. Alcoholism can lead to physical dependence. This means the person will not be able to quit without going through withdrawal. And long term alcohol abuse can cause fatal withdrawal. But during rehab, the patient’s alcohol intake will gradually be lowered, and their withdrawal symptoms will be managed. While you can’t enable their drinking habits nor tolerate bad behavior, you can still support them throughout the entire rehab process. This is all about giving them your emotional support. But they can also receive this from total strangers who are going through the same struggles. This is what support groups are all about. Help keep their commitment towards change, but understand that there’s a limit to what we can do for them. Change will ultimately come from within. Try to do your part: look for an alcohol rehab facility near you today!

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Alcoholism Treatment: How does it Work?

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• Understanding Alcoholism
• What is Alcoholism Addiction Treatment?

  Alcoholism is a serious condition. But what many people don’t know is that it is also manageable. People with this condition require lots of medical and emotional support before they can change their drinking patterns, but doing so is actually possible. In the process of changing their drinking habits, they can also improve their lives. Of course, we can expect it to take a lot of work—and it all begins with acknowledging alcoholism as a problem that needs to be resolved. If the alcoholic does not accept this, it will be much harder for them to recover. More than 7 percent of adults in the US are struggling with alcohol use disorder, also known as alcoholism. They drink too much and too often, harming their physical and psychological health in the process. It could ruin relationships, careers, and families. It’s important to seek help. But how exactly does alcoholism treatment work? What does “help” entail? Let’s have a closer look.

Understanding Alcoholism

You can’t deal with this problem if you don’t recognize it in the first place. What makes alcoholism different from social drinking? Most people partake in recreational drinking—so how do we know who’s an alcoholic and who’s just having a good time? For many casual drinkers, a drink or two is plenty. Some drink more than that before calling it a day. But an alcoholic does not know when to stop drinking. An alcoholic will drink alone or in secrecy. They will come up with all kinds of reasons to drink, even in the middle of the day. They will prioritize alcohol over their responsibilities, and may even lose interest in their old hobbies. If someone you care about presents an inability to control their drinking behaviors, then there’s a good chance they are an alcoholic. Some of them want to change, but feel like they are unable to do so. It can feel as though sobriety is impossible. [maxbutton id="2" ]  

What is Alcoholism Addiction Treatment?

Alcohol can become an obsession. And at this point, it is difficult to focus on daily life and its many gifts and challenges. But with the proper treatment program and continuous support, alcoholism can be addressed and resolved. An intervention is one of the best ways to do it. The idea is to help them see how alcoholism is a problem, in order to motivate them to cease drinking. Of course, it has to be done alongside other treatment methods, but this stage of recovery gives them hope: it shows them a way out of their current situation. Recovery programs may vary in terms of duration. The amount of time people need to spend in treatment will depend on their condition and progress. It will take a while to find the most effective approach that suits the patient’s specific needs. Alcohol is not dropped or ceased abruptly, as doing so can be dangerous for the person’s health. Withdrawal can be fatal if the alcoholic has been drinking for a very long time. Their body has adapted to the substance’s presence and expects it to be there always. Instead, the patient is detoxified gradually. Their intake is lowered and their withdrawal symptoms are managed carefully by trained medical professionals. Medical detox is done alongside therapy, so that the patient can heal physically while learning why they should keep it that way. This approach helps them heal emotionally as well. Support groups are also effective when it comes to providing the mental support that the patient needs. By creating a non-judgmental space wherein they can interact with people going through the same struggles, they will begin to feel less alone. Look for an alcoholism treatment center near you today and get started on your journey towards recovery.

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Ambien: How Does it Make You Feel?

Ambien is a drug that’s used to treat insomnia—most people are aware of its medical purpose. But there’s the other side of the coin that many don’t know about: the addictive side of Ambien. What exactly does this drug do to a person’s mind that compels them to abuse it? In other words, how does Ambien make you feel? In order to avoid getting hooked on this substance, it’s important to find out everything about it. By getting to know Ambien, we can reduce the likelihood of developing addiction and physical dependence.

What is Ambien?

Ambien, also known for its generic name zolpidem, is a sedative-hypnotic substance that is given to people struggling with sleep disorders such as insomnia. It comes in two formulations: one is immediate-release, which helps people fall asleep; the other is an extended-release formulation that helps maintain deep sleep. The latter achieves this prolonged effect by using a time release mechanism that dissolves slowly and releases gradually into the system to help the patient stay asleep. Even at pharmaceutical doses, Ambien may impair your thinking and reactions. This is why it is recommended that you only take it once a day, and usually before going to bed. Do not take this before driving, as it induces intense feelings of sleepiness. Follow your doctor’s prescription carefully. Do not take larger doses, and do not take it more often than you are supposed to. Ambien can also cause a severe allergic reaction in some individuals. More importantly, Ambien is a habit-forming drug. If you take it recreationally, you will likely want more. You might start using it continuously, until you are completely addicted.

Why is Ambien Used Recreationally?

Ambien doesn’t just make you feel sleepy, it also relaxes your body. It helps you reduce stress, and instead it induces euphoria. This feel-good benefit is what most recreational users are after. They don’t care that the drug can cause adverse effects if misused. If your doctor prescribes this sedative, make sure to keep it in a place where others cannot get to it. Just because it’s a prescription drug doesn’t mean it is safe to abuse. It can be just as dangerous as illicit drugs if taken recreationally. Make sure Ambien is used only by the person who needs it. This substance is so potent that it is not a good idea to use it for too long. Ambien is only used for short term treatment. A patient may be given Ambien for only 2 weeks. If their condition persists, the doctor may look for other ways to treat it. [maxbutton id="3" ]  

What are the Effects of Ambien Abuse?

For starters, Ambien abuse can cause overdose—something that can be fatal if not treated right. Seek medical attention immediately if the Ambien user experiences symptoms like shallow breathing, confusion, lightheadedness, fainting, and coma. Also contact your doctor if you encounter other symptoms like anxiety, depression, agitation, aggression, hallucinations, amnesia, and suicidal thoughts. Misusing Ambien can impair your decision making. It can cause severe dizziness, which makes the user susceptible to falls, accidents, and severe injuries. A person can easily become addicted to Ambien, making it much harder for them to quit it. Look for an addiction treatment center near you, so that medical professionals can handle your detoxification. Quitting on your own can be dangerous if you’ve been taking this drug for a long time. It can cause withdrawal symptoms. If you are addicted to Ambien, remember that you don’t have to deal with this problem alone. Visit a rehab facility near you today and get started on your path to a sober life.

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How Much Ambien is Too Much?

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• How Much Ambien is Too Much?
• Dangers of Abusing Ambien

  Ambien is a sedative-hypnotic medication that can help treat insomnia, as well as other sleep disorders. Patients who are given Ambien are often those whose sleeping habits are affected by anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders come in many forms, and affect many people all over the world. Therefore, Ambien is a very common prescription medication. It is important to know how to properly take this drug. This substance is very addictive, and must be used properly. Its habit-forming quality is the reason why it is only recommended for sleep disorders. And even in those cases, Ambien is only a short term treatment option. So how much Ambien is too much? How do you know you’re misusing a substance? Let’s find out.

How Much Ambien is Too Much?

For starters, if you are taking the drug recreationally, or simply to get high, then you are definitely misusing the drug. And if you want to find out how much Ambien you should take and when, you should refer to the doctor’s prescription. Taking this substance for any other purpose is not only against the law, but is also very dangerous for your health. Ambien is available in both immediate release and extended release formulations. It comes in 5mg and 10mg strength tablets. The extended release version is for patients who are struggling to stay asleep at night. It’s a very helpful drug if you have anxiety, but zolpidem (the main ingredient in Ambien) is not meant for long term use. Usually, patients will be prescribed with a daily dose of 10mg once a day, and only before going to bed. This will help slow down their brain activity, allowing them to sleep more easily. Do not take higher doses, and do not take this drug more frequently than you are supposed to. Also avoid sharing it with anyone else, especially if the person has a substance abuse history. Ambien causes a euphoric high that relaxes the body—this is why many people abuse their prescription. But taking even just 70mg at once can cause significant health problems. It is hard to overdose on Ambien, but it is possible. Despite the low risk of overdose, taking more than the prescribed amounts of Ambien can lead to adverse effects. Fatal overdose due to Ambien has occurred at around 2000mg at once, but it can also occur at around 400mg. [maxbutton id="3" ]  

Dangers of Abusing Ambien

It is also possible to develop tolerance, dependence, and addiction, when you’re taking too much Ambien. This is why doctors don’t prescribe Ambien for more than a few weeks. Recreational users may suffer from nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, or even a coma. There’s also a really high chance of getting into a car accident if you take this drug before driving. Taking Ambien alongside other substances like alcohol and illicit drugs is extremely dangerous. Only take Ambien as prescribed by the doctor, and as it is supposed to be taken. If you or someone you love gets addicted to this substance, quitting will be difficult without the risk of life threatening withdrawal. Instead, look for a rehab facility so that the addicted person can receive proper care from trained medical professionals. Actual treatment methods may vary from person to person, depending on the severity of their condition. But oftentimes, it will involve a combination of medical detox and behavioral therapy. All hope is not lost: look for an addiction treatment facility near you today!

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How Long Does Ambien Stay in Your System?

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• How Long Does Ambien Stay in Your System?
• Why is Ambien Abused?

  Ambien is a sedative-hypnotic drug. It helps people who have anxiety disorders to sleep easily at night. Those with insomnia can benefit from this drug, because it depresses the central nervous system, slows down brain activity, and allows them to sleep in peace. Anxiety gives you feelings of dread and fear—things that keep people up at night. But Ambien helps take all of that away. The only problem is that Ambien is quite addictive. If you misuse this drug, you’ll find that it’s a habit-forming substance. This is the reason why Ambien must only be taken as prescribed. Those who take it recreationally are at risk of developing dependence and addiction. And of course, they are bound to experience its adverse effects. It is important to know everything we can about these prescription medications, so we can avoid misusing and abusing them. Potent substances like Ambien can cause side effects even when you’re taking them as prescribed. Just imagine the damage it can cause to those who willingly ingest high doses of it.

How Long Does Ambien Stay in Your System?

Ambien is a fast-acting drug that is easily absorbed into the body. It takes effect within 30 minutes, and stays in the system for up to 8 hours. It has a short half life too, because its main purpose is to help facilitate sleep while ensuring that the patient can easily stay asleep. This is perfect for insomniacs and those who can’t get a full 8 hours of sleep. This drug should only be taken as prescribed. It is typically used 30 minutes before heading to bed. But because Ambien causes extreme sleepiness, it is not a good medication to use for anything other than sleep disorders. Patients who are taking this drug should not drive afterwards. Ambien can be detected on a urine screen for a couple of days. And just like with any other drug, hair samples can provide evidence of substance use for weeks or even months after you take Ambien. Do not take large doses of Ambien, and do not take it more often than you are supposed to. Also, avoid sharing this drug with anybody else, especially with those who have a history of substance abuse. If someone you love has been addicted to alcohol or a certain drug, they are more likely to relapse if they take this substance. [maxbutton id="2" ]  

Why is Ambien Abused?

Despite the risk of addiction, many people take Ambien for recreational purposes simply because it makes them feel good. Aside from the sleep inducing effect of this hypnotic medication, it also relaxes the body. Being a prescription drug, Ambien also happens to be more accessible compared to street drugs. But abusing prescription drugs is also illegal, not to mention dangerous. Taking high doses of Ambien can cause nausea, vomiting, confusion, hallucination, anxiety, depression, and respiratory depression. An Ambien user may even become aggressive after abusing this substance for a long time. If someone you care about gets addicted to Ambien, look for a drug rehab facility near you instead of forcing them to quit. Abruptly ending your Ambien intake can be life threatening due to withdrawal. Proper medical intervention may be necessary.

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Fighting Insomnia: How to Take Ambien Properly

Ambien, also known for its generic name zolpidem, is a prescription drug that is given to patients who are suffering from insomnia and other sleep disorders. This sedative-hypnotic drug can help you if you are having trouble falling asleep. It’s even more effective for those whose conditions are rooted in anxiety. As we all know, anxiety fills a person with feelings of dread and fear, oftentimes triggered by social interactions or traumatic events. This can make it very difficult to initiate a good night’s sleep. But thankfully, Ambien produces a calming effect, which acts on your brain to switch off these negative feelings for a while—at least until you can sleep. The extended release formulation of Ambien takes it a step further by ensuring that you won’t wake up in the middle of the night and have difficulty going back to sleep. While it does not cure anxiety by itself, it certainly helps the person function better in the morning, helping them get productive and get through the day with some energy to spare. Of course, there’s a proper way to take this medication, and that’s what we are going to discuss today.

How to Take Ambien Properly

A good rule to follow is that you should just stick with your prescription. Anything other than that is potentially harmful. Some people think that it’s safe to abuse or misuse Ambien just because it’s a prescription drug. That’s not the case. Ambien is a habit-forming drug, meaning you can easily get addicted to it if you don’t use your medication properly. Taking this drug recreationally can also lead to physical dependence. It is at this point that it becomes difficult to quit without going through withdrawal. In this case, long term Ambien abuse can lead to life threatening withdrawal. So why do people misuse Ambien anyway? It’s not a narcotic, so it’s definitely a different substance altogether. But Ambien causes the same euphoric effects that certain opioids may produce. It relaxes people. And the belief that prescription drugs are safe to abuse makes it so much more dangerous to unsuspecting recreational users. Before they know it, they’re already hooked. Do not take large doses of this drug, and do not take it for longer than you are supposed to. Just follow the prescription and you should be fine. Generally speaking, this medication is limited to short treatment periods of 1 to 2 weeks or less. That’s because of how addictive it is. [maxbutton id="3" ]   If your insomnia does not go away after 2 weeks, then it’s probably a bad idea to keep taking Ambien. Also do not crush or snort Ambien. Avoid sharing it with anyone else, especially if they have a history of substance abuse. Ambien is usually taken 1 to 2 hours before going to bed. This drug induces drowsiness, so it’s best not to drive after taking it, otherwise you might get into an accident on the road. If in doubt, contact your doctor immediately. Do take note that sometimes, even pharmaceutical doses of Ambien can lead to certain side effects. But for recreational users, the risk of severe side effects is even greater. If you or someone you love is addicted to Ambien, look for a rehab facility near you, so that you can receive proper treatment. Like we said, Ambien withdrawal can be very dangerous, so it’s better to deal with it with the help of trained medical professionals. In a rehab facility, the patient may undergo a combination of medical detox and behavioral therapy to help eliminate their Ambien dependence. Exact treatment methods may vary from person to person, depending on the severity of their addiction. It’s not too late to get sober: look for an addiction treatment center near you today!

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Does Ambien Get You High? The Dangers of Prescription Depressants

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• Does Ambien Get You High?
• Dangers of Recreational Use
• Adverse Effects of Ambien Abuse
• How Addicted Individuals Can Get Better

  Ambien is a useful medication for those suffering from insomnia, particularly those with conditions that are caused by anxiety. Even though it’s considered a sedative-hypnotic drug, Ambien is not a narcotic. This may lead some people to believe that the drug is not addictive—and on this article we will be discussing why that is not the case. Also known as zolpidem, Ambien is quite a dangerous drug when abused, and has a high addiction potential. Therefore, it is only recommended for short term treatment of sleep disorders.

Does Ambien Get You High?

Ambien works by slowing down brain activity or “depressing” the central nervous system. Its peak effect occurs around 2 hours after ingesting the drug. It induces heavy sleep, which is why it should only be used if your goal is to sleep through the night. As it helps you sleep, Ambien relaxes the body and induces euphoria. So long story short, this drug does get you high. Its euphoric effects make it very addictive, and recreational users are likely to keep on taking the drug. Because of its habit-forming properties, Ambien is only used for short term treatment of sleep disorders. Patients are usually limited to only 2 week’s worth of treatment when taking this drug. And with addiction comes adverse effects. The euphoric high that comes with taking Ambien is about the only positive feeling you’ll get from abusing this drug. Taking this in high doses can even cause hallucinations. But of course, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. [maxbutton id="2" ]  

Dangers of Recreational Use

Taking Ambien as prescribed can sometimes lead to side effects—that’s just how potent the drug is. Imagine the damage it can cause if a person willingly takes Ambien to get high. Its effects on the central nervous system can cause a variety of unpleasant side effects. The intensity of such health problems varies according to a person’s drug habits. An Ambien user may find it difficult to balance. They may become dizzy or lightheaded in the middle of the day. They can also suffer from other effects like nausea, vomiting, headache, pain, ringing ears, and numbness. Mixing Ambien with other substances increases the risk. Doing so is extremely dangerous, especially when Ambien is taken with alcohol or illicit drugs. Just because this substance is prescribed by doctors doesn’t mean it is safe to abuse. This is a drug that directly affects your central nervous system, and so it should not be messed around with.

Adverse Effects of Ambien Abuse

Aside from the fact that you can develop addiction and dependence, you may also encounter other adverse effects that affect your body and mind. An addicted individual may suffer from anxiety, confusion, hallucinations, nightmares, delusions, and suicidal thoughts. Prolonged use of Ambien may even make a person aggressive or violent. Unfortunately, Ambien wouldn’t even let many people abuse it for a long time. A person who takes Ambien before driving is very likely to get into a vehicular accident.

How Addicted Individuals Can Get Better

An addicted individual will not be able to quit on their own without the risk of life threatening withdrawal. It is a much safer idea to get them into a rehab facility, where they can receive proper care from trained medical professionals. Actual treatment methods may vary from person to person, depending on the severity of their condition. But oftentimes, it will involve a combination of medical detox and behavioral therapy. All hope is not lost: look for an addiction treatment facility near you today!

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How Exactly Does Ambien Work?

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• The Function of Ambien: How it Works
• The Dangers of Ambien

Ambien is known for being two things at once: a sedative-hypnotic drug that benefits people suffering from insomnia, and an addictive drug that is dangerous for those using it recreationally. Regardless of how you view it, it’s important to know exactly how this medication works. Since so many people are benefitting from or getting addicted to it, it’s time to know what it is and what it does. Here’s a look at how Ambien works.

The Function of Ambien: How it Works

Many people suffer from insomnia due to various anxiety disorders. This may include post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder, among others. And being unable to sleep hinders a person’s productivity. It keeps them from living a full life. It even prevents them from functioning well on a day to day basis. We’re only human beings: we need to sleep and recharge every night. We need to let our bodies heal overnight. We can’t do that if anxious thoughts and feelings of dread are plaguing us. And luckily, medications like Ambien help keep those thoughts at bay. It works by “depressing” the central nervous system, meaning it slows down brain activity in order to facilitate sleep. Specifically, Ambien binds to GABA receptors, flooding the brain with calming chemicals. This drug has been available as the generic zolpidem since 2007. It has both fast-acting and extended-release versions. The extended release formulation of Ambien not only helps patients fall asleep but also allows them to stay asleep through the night. Ambien is not the only medication to work this way. Benzodiazepines like Xanax and Valium are commonly compared to it. But as a fast-acting drug, Ambien causes immediate sleepiness. This means a user must hit the sack right after taking it. If you take Ambien and try to drive a vehicle, it could lead to disastrous results. [maxbutton id="3" ]  

The Dangers of Ambien

Getting into a car accident is only one of the potential outcomes of misusing Ambien. In fact, more of its effects target your health—particularly your mental health. In order to be safe, be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Do not take large doses of this drug, and do not take it more frequently than you are supposed to. Overdosing on Ambien is unlikely, but possible. But you really should be more concerned about the addictive effects of this substance. Because of its habit-forming properties, Ambien is never recommended for more than a couple of weeks. It’s only considered a short term treatment for insomnia, and therefore is not advisable for anything more than that. You can easily get addicted to this drug. It’s possible to develop tolerance and dependence on Ambien, and it can even serve as a gateway drug for recreational use of illicit substances. Some people take Ambien recreationally because of its euphoric effects. It relaxes them and makes them feel good. But adverse effects are commonly experienced when Ambien is misused. In fact, even pharmaceutical doses of Ambien can sometimes cause side effects. Imagine its effects on those who willingly take high doses of it. If you or someone you love is addicted to Ambien, look for a rehab facility near you. Quitting all by yourself can lead to life threatening withdrawal, so it’s better to be treated by trained professionals. Actual rehab methods may vary depending on the severity of addiction, but it will generally involve medical detox and behavioral therapy. Look for an addiction treatment center near you today!

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