Category: Substance Abuse

Peer Pressure and Substance Abuse: What You Should Know

You’re heading off to college for the first time. The excitement and anticipation of newfound freedom and independence are intoxicating. According to the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services Drug and Alcohol Abuse Report, the state has more than 60,000 drug treatment admissions annually. Of all treatment admissions, 42% reported heroin as one of the most commonly abused drugs, while 13% reported having a cocaine addiction, and 9% reported having a marijuana addiction.

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What is “Benzo Belly”? Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Symptoms & Treatment

"Benzo belly" is a colloquial term referring to severe gastrointestinal issues often experienced during benzodiazepine withdrawal. It is thought to be caused by the drug affecting the gut-brain axis. The symptoms of “benzo belly” typically include diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and appetite changes. What Causes “Benzo Belly”? Benzos affect almost every cell in the body, [...]
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The Isolation of Addiction

One of the commonalities of severe substance use disorders (SUDs) involves isolation. Often people who suffer from addiction struggle to connect with others. They may become isolated, spending more and more time alone. This combination of isolation and addiction can hinder an individual’s relationships with friends and family members. It can keep people from spending [...]
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Mac Miller, the Stigma on Mental Illness, and Addiction

“No matter where life takes me, find me with a smile.” These famous lyrics to Mac Miller’s popular song ‘Best Day Ever’ could not have been further from the truth for the popular rapper who died of an apparent overdose on September 7th, 2018. It is no understatement that Mac Miller’s music influenced a generation [...]
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