‘Pink Coke’ & Adulterants: How Reagent Testing Reduces Risk (and Limits)
Cocaine is one of the most adulterated drugs in the world. Rarely sold in pure form, it is commonly cut with everything from caffeine and sugar to toxic chemicals and opioids like fentanyl. Recently, a new trend has been making headlines in nightlife and online forums: “pink coke.” Marketed as a premium or exotic form […]
Cocaethylene Explained: Why Mixing Alcohol and Cocaine Creates a New Drug
For decades, alcohol and cocaine have been two of the most widely misused substances in the world. Separately, each carries well-documented risks, but when combined, they don’t just add up; they interact inside the body to create an entirely new compound: cocaethylene. Cocaethylene forms in the liver when alcohol and cocaine are ingested together. Far […]
Nitazenes: The Next Wave of Synthetic Opioids
In the ongoing opioid crisis, new synthetic drugs continue to emerge. One of the latest threats is nitazenes, a group of opioids far stronger than fentanyl. While many people have never heard the name, nitazenes are already appearing in street drug supplies across the United States. At Phoenix Rising Recovery, we want our community to […]
7-OH Tablets: What You Need to Know | Phoenix Rising
Over the past decade, 7-OH Tablets of kratom extracts and other forms of the psychoactive plant have exploded in popularity across the U.S., often promoted as a “natural” alternative for pain relief, mood, or energy. While kratom leaves contain dozens of active compounds, one derivative, 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), has raised serious concern. Sold in concentrated powders, […]
4-ANPP and Fentanyl Precursors: Understanding the Hidden Drivers of the Opioid Crisis
The fentanyl epidemic continues to devastate communities across the United States. Behind each counterfeit dose lies a network of precursor chemicals, vital to the clandestine production of lethal synthetic opioids. Among these, 4-ANPP (4-Anilino-N-phenethylpiperidine) plays a pivotal role as a direct fentanyl precursor [1]. Educating communities about these hidden supply-chain drivers is crucial, especially for […]
ADHD Medication List: Brand Names, Types, Identification, and Risks
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can make it difficult to focus, manage impulses, and keep up with daily responsibilities. While therapy and behavioral strategies are key, for many, medication plays a major role in symptom management. However, some ADHD prescriptions, especially stimulant medications, carry a high potential for misuse and addiction. This ADHD medication list includes the […]
“Feel Free” Drink: What You Need to Know About This Trending “Natural” Beverage
The wellness industry has exploded in recent years with drinks marketed as natural alternatives to alcohol, and one product leading the charge is the “Feel Free” drink or “Feel Free Classic.” Promoted as a mood booster and productivity enhancer, “Feel Free” is a kava and kratom-based beverage sold online and in gas stations and supplement […]
How Quizlet Affects the Mind and Body: Exploring Cognitive Tools in Recovery
In today’s digital world, tools like Quizlet are transforming how we engage with information. From flashcards to study games, Quizlet is one of the most popular platforms for students, professionals, and even those navigating personal growth. But what role can these platforms play in addiction recovery? At Phoenix Rising Recovery Center in Palm Springs, California, […]
Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)
Drinking during pregnancy can cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) when the fetus and developing baby are exposed to alcohol. This condition can occur from any amount of alcohol consumed while pregnant. Moreover, understanding FASD, its effects on children, and how it can be prevented and treated can help women who are considering getting pregnant, […]
Is Hydrocodone Addictive?
Opioids such as heroin and fentanyl are widely recognized as dangerous, addictive substances. Do these risks also apply to all other opioids, including those that are frequently prescribed to treat common medical conditions? For example, is hydrocodone addictive? About Hydrocodone Hydrocodone is a powerful semi-synthetic opioid. It is a lab-created drug that is made by […]
Xanax: Side Effects and Uses
Xanax is one of the most frequently prescribed psychiatric medications in the United States. When used as directed, it can be both safe and effective – but misuse can put a person at increased risk of several Xanax side effects. What Is Xanax (Alprazolam)? Xanax is the brand name of a prescription medication whose primary […]
Drug-Induced Rhabdomyolysis
One of the potential adverse side effects of substance use disorders and prescription drug misuse is drug-induced rhabdomyolysis. This can be a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical treatment. By learning more about this condition, along with common symptoms, it can help people determine when they need to seek professional help for their drug use […]
Snorting Tramadol: Effects and Health Risks
Tramadol is a type of synthetic opioid that is medically prescribed to help treat pain. As with other prescription opioids, there is a risk of misuse, dependence, and addiction. One way that people misuse this drug is to crush the tablets into a powder and snort it. While using tramadol in a manner can allow […]
Prescription Drug Take Back Day
When you have prescription drugs you no longer need or take, it is vital to dispose of them properly. Leaving them sitting in your medicine cabinet can increase the risk of medication theft by friends and family members, especially when they are opioid-based medications. Throwing them in the trash is not a good idea, as […]
Alcohol Awareness Month 2025
Alcohol Awareness Month 2025 is currently underway. Learn more about the importance of this month, why it is necessary, and how you can participate. What is Alcohol Awareness Month? Alcohol Awareness Month is an annual observance that calls attention to the dangers of alcohol abuse and alcohol use disorder (alcoholism). It also serves to educate […]
Why Does Alcohol Make Me Angry?
Your friends always seem to enjoy themselves when they’ve had a few drinks. But when you consume alcohol, your mood plummets and your actions become erratic and even threatening. To break this problematic behavior pattern, you need to start by asking yourself, “Why does alcohol make me angry, and what can I do about it?” […]
Soma Withdrawal & Detox: Symptoms & Timelines
When taken as prescribed, Soma helps relieve pain caused by muscle injuries and spasms. However, like other prescription painkillers, there is a risk of misuse and illicit use, which can lead to dependence and eventual addiction. Quitting Soma safely often requires medical supervision and treatment to avoid relapse. What Is Soma (Carisoprodol)? Soma is a […]
Anxiolytic Dependence
Anxiolytic may not be a well known word, but it describes medications that millions of people take every day. As with most prescription drugs, these meds can cause a range of unpleasant side effects, including the risk of anxiolytic dependence. Understanding Anxiolytic Use Disorder The term “anxiolytic” can be applied to a variety of medications […]
Is Delta 9 Safe?
With the legalization of marijuana for medical and recreational purposes becoming more widespread, people are being exposed to Delta 9 through various cannabis products. But is Delta 9 safe? Understanding what Delta 9 is, its effects on the body, and how prolonged use can lead to dependence and addiction can help people make informed decisions […]
How Long Does Methadone Stay in Your System?
Methadone is commonly used as part of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and a comprehensive addiction treatment program for people with opioid use disorder (OUD). Methadone blocks the euphoric effects of opioids while also lessening the severity of opioid withdrawal systems. Some people need to use this drug long-term to help reduce the risk of relapse. Finding […]
How Does Alcohol Affect Your Period?
One common question that many women ask is, “Can alcohol affect your period?” Drinking alcohol affects the body in different ways for men and women. The extent of the effects does vary based on the amount drunk, frequency, and duration. For binge drinkers, heavy drinkers, and those with alcohol use disorders (AUDs), the effects can […]
About the 230 Pill
There are different types of prescription medications that will be stamped with the number 230 on them. However, when people talk about the 230 pill, they often refer to the yellow pill, which contains acetaminophen and oxycodone hydrochloride. It is considered a narcotic analgesic combination drug due to the addictive nature of oxycodone. Identifying the […]
What Is SMART Recovery?
There are different recovery options for people overcoming alcohol use disorder (AUD) and co-occurring alcohol addiction and mental health disorders. One such option is SMART Recovery as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Finding out more about what SMART Recovery is can help you determine if it could be beneficial for you or a loved […]
The Link Between Stress and Addiction
Everyone faces some level of stress in their lives, and we all respond to it differently. Some people turn to holistic therapies, such as meditation or yoga. Other people may turn to alcohol or drugs for temporary relief. However, this latter approach often leads to dependence and eventual addiction. There is also a connection between addiction […]
Understanding Synthetic Cannabis
You may have seen them for sale at your local gas station or convenience store. Some people say they are a safer alternative to weed. Others claim you can’t get addicted to them. What’s the truth about products in the synthetic cannabis category? What Is Synthetic Cannabis? Synthetic cannabis refers to several lab-created drugs that […]
Can an Alcoholic Die From Quitting Cold Turkey?
You’ve developed an addiction to alcohol, and you want to stop drinking. Is it wise to try to quit all at once, on your own, without professional help? Could the sudden absence of alcohol actually be harmful to your body? Can an alcoholic die from quitting cold turkey? Dangers of Quitting Alcohol Cold Turkey Quit […]
Can Alcohol Abuse Cause Crohn’s Disease?
Alcohol use has been linked with a wide range of health problems, some of which can be life-threatening. Does this include severe gastrointestinal damage? Can alcohol cause Crohn’s disease? What is Crohn’s Disease? Before we look into if alcohol can cause Crohn’s disease, it can be helpful to review a few basic facts about this […]
Does Alcohol Affect the Gallbladder? Gallstones & Other Problems
Discussions of alcohol-related organ damage often focus on the liver, kidneys, and heart. These aren’t the only organs that can be harmed by heavy drinking, are they? For example, can alcohol cause gallbladder attacks or otherwise affect the gallbladder? How Alcohol Affects the Gallbladder Before discussing how can alcohol affect the gallbladder, let’s take a […]
Does Adderall Cause Acne?
Adderall has been linked to skin problems such as rashes, hives, and acne breakouts. Rashes and hives are usually the result of allergic reactions to the medication. But what’s behind the breakouts? Can Adderall cause acne? Can Adderall Cause Acne? Adderall is the brand name of a prescription medication that contains amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Both […]
Is Alcoholism a Mental Illness?
Understanding the Definition of Mental Illness Mental illness encompasses health conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior. This includes disorders such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and addictive behaviors. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), about 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiences a mental illness each year, with rising rates among teenagers. […]
Does Acid Fry Your Brain?
It’s a cautionary tale that’s been told for decades: If you either intentionally or accidentally ingest too much LSD, your ability to think clearly, accurately perceive your environment, or communicate with others could be permanently impaired. But is this really true? Can acid fry your brain? What Is Acid? Acid is a common slang term […]
High-Functioning Depression
It is easy to assume that when someone has depression, it is easy to know they are suffering. However, that is not always the case with high-functioning depression. It is difficult to tell when someone is depressed when they are still high-functioning. Taking the time to learn more about this mental health condition can help […]
Understanding Dextroamphetamine
Dextroamphetamine is a prescription medication used to treat ADHD and sometimes used to treat narcolepsy. When taken as directed, the medication can help alleviate symptoms associated with ADHD and narcolepsy. However, the drug is often misused by those who do not need it, which can lead to dependence and addiction. What Is Dextroamphetamine? Dextroamphetamine is […]
Ritalin Withdrawal: What to Know
Just like other substances, Ritalin can become addictive when it is not taken as directed or misused by people who do not need the medication. The misuse of Ritalin can lead to withdrawal symptoms when someone attempts to quit the prescription drug without medically supervised assistance. Overcoming Ritalin withdrawal and addiction is possible with personalized […]
How Long Does Baclofen Stay In Your System?
Before you start to take this medication, you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist to be sure you understand how to use it safely. Examples of questions that you may want to ask include: Can you get addicted to baclofen, can you overdose on it, and how long does baclofen stay in your system? […]
Why Do Some People Mix Alcohol and Antifreeze?
Do people really drink antifreeze and alcohol? Why would someone make this choice — and what type of harm are they exposing themselves to when they do? What Is Antifreeze and Its Composition? Antifreeze is a fluid that can protect internal combustion engines from being damaged by extreme temperatures. Most antifreeze for car engines contains […]
Can Alcohol Consumption Affect Your Sleep Apnea?
Decades of research have documented a clear connection between alcohol and sleep apnea. Continuing to drink after being diagnosed with this condition can undermine your health and even threaten your life. How Does Alcohol Affect Sleep Apnea? To understand the relationship between alcohol and sleep apnea, it can be helpful to first review a few […]
Understanding Alcohol Esophagitis
The connection between alcohol and esophageal cancer often begins with a condition called alcohol esophagitis. What is Alcohol Esophagitis? Alcohol esophagitis is a medical condition that is characterized by an inflammation of the esophagus. It is also sometimes referred to as alcoholic esophagitis or reflux esophagitis. The esophagus is a tube-shaped organ that connects the […]
Can You Safely Drink Alcohol While Taking Prednisone?
Physicians often advise their patients to curtail or end their alcohol use while taking prescription medications. Does this apply to steroids or other anti-inflammatory meds? For example, can you drink alcohol while taking prednisone? What is Prednisone? Before we address the question, can you drink alcohol while taking prednisone, we should first review some fundamental […]
Can You Overdose – OD – on Trazadone?
Trazodone can be extremely beneficial to people who have certain health concerns. But the medication can also be dangerous, especially for those who misuse it. If you have received a prescription for this med, it’s important to be aware of your risk for side effects or trazodone overdose. What is Trazodone? Trazodone is a prescription […]
Kratom for Opiate Withdrawal
Kratom for treating opiate withdrawal symptoms is a growing trend, but one that could lead to more difficult side-effects. Opiates are a class of drugs naturally derived from the opium poppy plant, such as heroin, opium, morphine, and codeine. These drugs cause changes in the brain’s chemistry when they are misused and used illicitly. Quitting […]
Addressing Acute Propofol and Benzodiazepine Intoxication
Propofol is a highly effective anesthetic that is on the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines. When this drug is used appropriately, it can be extremely effective. But when it is misused, either alone or in combination with other substances, its effects can be devastating. One of the many potential dangers is known as […]
Does Smoking Weed Cause Acne?
You’re well aware of the dangers of marijuana, such as the risk of addiction, the possibility of cardiovascular damage, and the potential of severe acne. Wait – what? Can you really get acne from weed? Or does smoking weed cause acne to become even worse? Does Smoking Weed Really Cause Acne? Let’s cut right to […]
Weed Withdrawal Symptoms: The Reality
Is weed addictive? Do some people actually develop weed withdrawal symptoms when they quit? Regardless of what you may have heard or read elsewhere, the correct answer to both of these questions is yes. Can You Have Withdrawal Symptoms from Smoking Weed? Discussions of drug withdrawal often focus on the difficulty of ridding your body […]
Can You Drink Alcohol While on Ozempic?
Ozempic has been in the news a lot lately, but many people still have questions about this medication’s benefits and potential drawbacks. For example, can you drink alcohol on Ozempic? And what happens if you do? What Exactly is Ozempic? Ozempic is the brand name of a prescription medication that contains semaglutide. It has been […]
Can Baking Soda Really Help You Pass a Drug Test?
Some sources claim that you can use baking soda to hide evidence of substance use from a drug screen. This baking soda drug test theory can’t actually work, can it? The “Baking Soda to Beat a Drug Test” Theory If you spend much time searching online for ways to beat a drug screen, you will […]
Drinking Alcohol With Antibiotics: What to Know
Often, when you receive a prescription from your doctor, they advise you to abstain from alcohol while you’re taking the medication. This doesn’t apply to all meds, though, which leads us to today’s question: Can you drink alcohol while taking antibiotics? Can You Drink Alcohol While Taking Antibiotics? This looks like a simple yes/no question. […]
Understanding the Iso Drug Trend
The iso drug is a somewhat obscure substance that is threatening to become a widespread public health crisis in the U.S. The more you know about this drug, the better prepared you will be to protect yourself and keep your loved ones safe. What is the Iso Drug? The iso drug is an extremely powerful […]
Understanding Zzzquil Addiction
Even though you can purchase Zzzquil without a prescription, that doesn’t mean you can use it without risk of side effects or even addiction. When you get the facts about this medication, you’ll be better prepared to decide if it’s appropriate for you. What is Zzzquil? Zzzquil is the brand name of an over-the-counter (OTC) […]
How to Taper Off Suboxone
Suboxone can help provide relief from opioid withdrawal symptoms when starting recovery from opioid use disorder. The drug can also be used to help people maintain their newly found opioid-free life while reducing the risk of relapse. Eventually, many people reach a point in their recovery where they no longer need suboxone. This leads them […]
The Truth About Chemsex & Slamsex
Chemsex and slamsex are risky recreational behaviors that can expose people to considerable physical and psychological harm. What is Chemsex? Chemsex is a portmanteau, or a word that is created by blending two other words together. In the case of chemsex, the two original words were chemicals (drugs) and sex. The term chemsex refers to […]
Seroquel Side Effects and Addiction
Seroquel can be a source of immense relief and improved quality of life for people who have certain mental health concerns. However, as with most other prescription medications, using Seroquel can expose a person to a range of problematic side effects, including addiction. What is Seroquel? Seroquel is the brand name of a prescription medication […]
What Does Nodding Out From Heroin Mean?
Nodding out sounds a lot like dozing off. But when heroin is involved, nodding can be a sign of a serious problem. It can also be a precursor to a variety of life-threating effects. What is Nodding Out? Nodding out is sometimes also called nodding off, having the nods, or being on the nod. Regardless […]
Justin Timberlake: Alcohol & DWI
Photo: Justin Timberlake | Sag Harbor Police Department On June 18, news broke that pop star Justin Timberlake had been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. As expected, this prompted a range of responses on social media, from memes mocking the famous entertainer to serious questions about Justin Timberlake, alcohol, and addiction. Justin […]
AA Daily Meditation
Every day, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) posts messages to support those who are working to maintain their recovery. You don’t have to be an active AA participant, or even follow the 12-Step model, to benefit from AA’s daily reflections and meditations. What Is an AA Daily Meditation? The first thing to know about an AA daily […]
Addressing Molly Addiction
Many people mistakenly believe that molly is a harmless drug that poses no risk of long-term damage. When you get the facts about this drug, you will understand that using it can expose you to several types of harm, including the development of molly addiction. What Is Molly? Molly is a slang term for a […]
Guide on How to Break an Addiction
Learning how to break an addiction is a complex challenge. But if you are willing to put in the work, make important lifestyle changes, and get help when you need it, you can end your substance use a live a healthier life in recovery. Science Behind Addiction Before we discuss how to break an addiction, […]
Hunter Biden: Cocaine Addiction
Photo: Hunter Biden’s Addiction Upended His Family. Has Your Family Had Similar Woes? | Haiyun Jiang for The New York Times On June 11, 2024, a jury found Hunter Biden guilty of three felony charges related to his 2018 purchase of a handgun. Federal prosecutors successfully argued that Biden had committed crimes by failing to […]
Alcohol and Sleep Problems
It’s not uncommon to hear someone say that they often have a drink at the end of the day to help them sleep. However, the truth about the connection between alcohol and sleep suggests that this habit may not be as beneficial as many believe it to be. Does Alcohol Affect Sleep? Ask most people […]
25 of the Best Sobriety Affirmations
No matter how dedicated or enthusiastic you are about your recovery efforts, there will be times when you experience doubts or even engage in negative self-talk. Sobriety affirmations can help you prevent challenges like these from derailing your progress. 25 Affirmations for Your Sobriety Embracing sober affirmations like the ones we’ve listed below can make […]
Black Tar Heroin: What Exactly is it?
Black tar heroin isn’t nearly as prevalent as the powder version of this drug – but it can be just as powerful, and even more dangerous. What is Black Tar Heroin? Heroin is a powerful drug that is derived from morphine. Since morphine is a naturally occurring part of the opium poppy plant, heroin is […]
The Dangers of Mixing Alcohol and Prescription Drugs
If you’ve ever received a prescription from your doctor, there’s a good chance you were advised not to drink alcohol while taking the medication. Mixing alcohol with prescription drugs can be dangerous, because alcohol may either degrade the effects of the medication or intensify them to the point that they become toxic. Dangers of Mixing […]
Pink Cocaine: What is Tucibi?
In 2019, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime issued a warning about an emerging threat called pink cocaine, or tucibi. This dangerous, misleadingly named substance has now made its way to the U.S., where many people who use it may have no idea what they are actually putting into their bodies. What is […]
THC Detox: What to Expect
Contrary to an unfortunately persistent myth, you can become addicted to marijuana. When you then try to stop using the drug, a variety of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms can prevent you from doing so. If you find yourself in these circumstances, THC detox may be the ideal place to start your recovery journey. What is THC? […]
Understanding Chemical Dependency
Chemical dependency and addiction are often used interchangeably. However, even though these terms share many similarities, there are also some important distinctions between them. What Does Chemical Dependency Mean? Chemical dependency refers to the physical and psychological reliance that some people develop on some substances after using them for a certain period of time. People […]
How Long Does Meth Stay in Your System For?
How long does meth stay in your system? Once your body has eliminated the drug, can you still test positive on a drug screen? What types of physical and psychological harm can meth use cause? Knowing the answers to these questions can help you keep yourself and your loved ones safe from the twin scourges […]
Addressing the First Step in Recovery
Since it was originally published in the late 1930s, the 12 Step recovery model has helped countless people end their use of addictive substances and start living healthier, drug-free lives. But this long history of success doesn’t mean the process is easy. In fact, it’s not uncommon for people to struggle with the very first […]
Sober Things to do in Palm Desert, CA
When a person has an alcohol addiction, much of their social life and activities revolve around drinking. Once they enter recovery, finding sober things to do can prove challenging. This makes it important to double down on finding ways to have fun without risking the temptation to relapse. Phoenix Rising Recovery recognizes the importance of […]
Sores from Drugs: Causes & Dangers
Overdose. Brain damage. Liver failure. Discussions of the dangers of drug abuse often focus on debilitating or potentially fatal effects like these. While it is obviously important to be aware of the grievous harm that substances can cause, it is also worthwhile to understand the impact of smaller (but still extremely serious) problems, such as […]
Understanding the Psychological Dependence of Drug Addiction
Psychological dependence of drug addiction can be the most difficult part of addiction. Addiction is an all-encompassing disorder that can affect how you think, feel, and act. To end your compulsive abuse of alcohol or another drug, it is important to address each of these concerns. Detox can help you get past the physical distress […]
Can Recovering Alcoholics Drink Kombucha?
Fermentation plays an integral role in the creation of kombucha. Fermentation is also central to the production of beer, wine, hard cider, and other alcoholic beverages. Does this mean that , for recovering alcoholics, kombucha is off-limits? What is Kombucha? Kombucha is a fermented beverage that is produced by combining tea, yeast, sugar, and bacteria. […]
Addressing Alcohol Abuse During the Pandemic
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, alcohol abuse increased across the United States, which led to an alarming increase in the annual number of alcohol-related deaths. Alcohol Abuse Skyrocketed During the Covid-19 Pandemic According to a February 2024 report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an average of about 488 people died every […]
Kratom and Alcohol: Mixing Dangers
On their own, both alcohol and kratom can be extremely dangerous. When a person abuses both of these substances at the same time, their risk of serious harm can increase significantly. Understanding Kratom and Alcohol To get a better understanding of the dangers of combining kratom with alcohol, it can help to review a few […]
Fentanyl in Weed: Fact or Fiction?
Fentanyl is an extremely powerful opioid that has been a primary contributor to rising rates of overdose deaths in the United States. Many of these deaths involved people who took substances without realizing that they also contained fentanyl. Recent headlines about fentanyl-tainted marijuana have caused many people to wonder if it’s common to find fentanyl […]
Overcoming Stigma in Addiction Treatment
Achieving successful, long-term recovery from addiction often requires people to deal with an array of physical, psychological, and social challenges. Unfortunately, this process can be made even more difficult by the misinformed judgmental opinions of others. Overcoming stigma can be a vital step on the path to true freedom from compulsive substance abuse. Addiction, Recovery, […]
Cocaine in the Blood Stream
Cocaine’s effects are relatively brief, but the presence of cocaine in the blood can cause both immediate damage and various types of long-term harm. How Does Cocaine Affect Our Blood? When a person uses cocaine, the drug can boost their blood pressure by increasing the individual’s heart rate and constricting their blood vessels. This can […]
The Role of Peer Support in Addiction Recovery
Clinical services are essential components of addiction treatment. However, during (and especially after) a person’s time in rehab, they may also benefit from peer support. What is Peer Support? Peer support is a broad term that can refer to various forms of non-clinical assistance for individuals who are in recovery. Peer support providers are typically […]
The 4 Stages of Alcoholism
Alcohol addiction doesn’t occur overnight. Most people who struggle with this condition progress through multiple stages of alcoholism until they get the help they need. Being able to recognize the signs, symptoms, and stages of alcoholism can empower you to make the best choices for yourself or to offer the most meaningful support to someone […]
Is Gabapentin an Addictive Drug?
Before taking any prescription medication, it is important to speak with your physician about both the benefits and the potential drawbacks of the drug. In the case of gabapentin, you will want to get answers to important questions such as How will this drug help me, Does it cause severe side effects, and Is gabapentin […]
Understanding the Effects of Prozac
When Prozac was introduced in the U.S. in the late 1980s, it marked a watershed moment in depression treatment. Today, more than three decades later, researchers have a wealth of data on the effects of Prozac, including answers to questions such as is Prozac addictive, what are the most common side effects of Prozac, and […]
Is Sobriety Boring?
Deciding to get professional help for a substance use disorder is an act of courage and hope. But that doesn’t mean it’s an easy choice to make. Change – even a beneficial change like this – can prompt concerns about the future. What will your life be like once you’ve ended your drug use? Will […]
Guide: Writing a Goodbye Letter to Addiction
The day you decide to stop using substances is a significant moment in your life. To commemorate this event, and to help you plot a course toward a healthier future, many therapists recommend writing a goodbye letter to addiction. Benefits of Writing a Goodbye Letter to an Addiction Here are just a few ways that […]
Understanding Transfer Addiction
One of the many challenges of maintaining recovery from addiction is finding healthy ways to fill the hours that you previously devoted to seeking, using, and recovering from drugs. Failing to establish a balanced, productive lifestyle can put you at risk for myriad negative outcomes, including transfer addiction. What is Transfer Addiction? Transfer addiction, which […]
Understanding Alcohol Shakes
Some people experience shakiness, primarily in their hands, in the aftermath of drinking binges. Others have tremors when they are trying to quit drinking for good. What are the alcohol shakes, and how concerned should someone be if they develop them? How Does Alcohol Cause the Shakes? Alcohol shakes are a type of withdrawal symptom. […]
Relapse Prevention Plans
The saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Without a doubt, this saying applies to anyone leaving rehab after addiction treatment. After all the hard work of recovery from addiction, no one wants to relapse. Therefore, relapse prevention plans are needed for those in rehab. You should create a plan […]
Am I An Alcoholic? Take Our Quiz
If you have begun to worry about the amount and frequency of your alcohol use, our Am I an Alcoholic quiz can help you determine if it’s time to get help. Why Take a Quiz to See if You May Be an Alcoholic? To know for sure if you have developed alcohol use disorder (alcoholism), […]
Signs of an Addict to Look Out For
Drug addicts often go to great lengths to hide the evidence of their substance abuse. But when you’re aware of the common signs of an addict, you will be in the best position to intervene if someone that you care about is in crisis. Importance of Recognizing the Signs of an Addict Recognizing the signs […]
Alcohol Withdrawal Seizure: Dangers & Treatment
The risk of alcohol withdrawal seizure is one of many reasons why a medical detoxification program may be the ideal place to begin your recovery journey. Can Alcohol Withdrawal Cause a Seizure? Alcohol withdrawal seizures are not common, but they can (and do) occur. People who have been drinking heavily for a long period are […]
About Vicodin Addiction
Prescription painkillers such as Vicodin have helped countless people enjoy improved quality of life. But those who use this medication need to understand that they may be at risk for an array of potential side effects, including the development of Vicodin addiction. What is Vicodin? Vicodin is the brand name of a prescription medication that […]
Is Alcoholism Genetic?
Why can some people drink alcohol in moderation without becoming addicted, while others are incapable of controlling the amount and frequency of their alcohol use? Is this something people are born with, or something they acquire as they age? In other words, is alcoholism genetic? What is the Definition of a Genetic Disorder? To answer […]
Desoxyn vs Adderall: What’s the Difference?
In today’s post, we compare and contrast two medications that are often prescribed to treat ADHD: Desoxyn vs. Adderall. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 6 million children and adolescents in the U.S. have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. The CDC also reports that about 60% of these young people receive […]
How Long Does it Take to Get Addicted to Suboxone?
For more than 20 years, Suboxone has proved to be a beneficial medication. However, like every other drug, its use can cause certain side effects. Common questions about this medication include how long does Suboxone stay in your system and how long does it take to get addicted to Suboxone? What is Suboxone Used For? […]
Therapist vs Psychologist: What’s the Difference?
Realizing that you need professional help for addiction or a mental health concern can be a significant step toward a healthier future. But how can you decide which type of professional is right for you? In today’s post, we look at the similarities and differences between therapists vs. psychologists. What is the Difference Between a […]
What is Chroming and Why is it So Dangerous?
In March 2023, a 13-year-old Australian girl died after participating in a TikTok trend called “chroming.” As news of this tragedy spread, parents throughout the world were horrified to learn that their own children may be at risk. In this post, we explain what chroming is, why it is so dangerous, and what you can […]
Dangers of Spice Addiction
Spice has a non-threatening name, and it is sold openly in stores and online. Many people interpret this to mean that the drug doesn’t pose a significant danger. Unfortunately, this is far from the truth. Anyone who uses this substance exposes themselves to considerable harm, which can include developing Spice addiction. What is the Drug […]
About NyQuil Addiction
NyQuil is an over-the-counter (or OTC) medication that is commonly used to treat symptoms of allergies, colds, and the flu. Although NyQuil may be purchased without a prescription, this does not mean that its use is a risk-free endeavor. The many negative outcomes that can result from the intentional misuse of this medication include developing […]
Is Addiction a Mental Illness?
Is addiction a mental illness? Is alcoholism a mental illness? What about the compulsive use of heroin, prescription painkillers, or benzodiazepines? Are mental illnesses limited to disorders that affect a person’s mood and emotions, or can they also involve urges to engage in destructive behaviors such as substance abuse? If you have been seeking answers […]
How Long Does it Take to Rewire the Brain From Addiction?
Untreated addiction can alter both the structure and functioning of a person’s brain. During treatment and early recovery, as the individual’s body adapts to the absence of addictive substances, their brain can also begin to heal. To gain greater insights into the many elements that contribute to successful recovery, experts continue to study how long […]
The Signs of Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine addiction is a serious and prevalent issue that affects individuals and their loved ones. At Phoenix Rising Recovery, our experienced and compassionate team is dedicated to helping people overcome their addiction to cocaine. This article aims to provide information about cocaine addiction statistics, recognizing the signs of addiction, and what to do when faced […]