Alcoholism: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Alcoholism Screening Quiz
Do you have a drinking problem? Take this quiz developed by the Office of Health Care Programs, Johns Hopkins University Hospital.
Do you have a drinking problem? Take this quiz developed by the Office of Health Care Programs, Johns Hopkins University Hospital.
Adult Child of Alcoholics Screening Quiz
Have you been affected by growing up around someone else's alcohol problem? Take this quiz to determine if you have affected more than you realize.
Have you been affected by growing up around someone else's alcohol problem? Take this quiz to determine if you have affected more than you realize.
Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal
Alcohol withdrawal refers to a group of symptoms that may occur from suddenly stopping the use of alcohol after chronic or prolonged ingestion.
Alcohol withdrawal refers to a group of symptoms that may occur from suddenly stopping the use of alcohol after chronic or prolonged ingestion.
Effects of Marijuana
Although legalization activists and many marijuana users believe smoking pot has no negative effects, scientific research indicates that marijuana use can cause many health problems.
Although legalization activists and many marijuana users believe smoking pot has no negative effects, scientific research indicates that marijuana use can cause many health problems.
Symptoms of Alcoholism
There are many signs and symptoms of drinking problems, but there are seven major symptoms of the most severe drinking problem, alcohol dependence or alcoholism.
There are many signs and symptoms of drinking problems, but there are seven major symptoms of the most severe drinking problem, alcohol dependence or alcoholism.
Processed Marijuana
Processed marijuana buds seized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Processed marijuana buds seized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Are You Enabling an Alcoholic?
Have you enabled an alcoholic or addict to avoid the consequences of his actions? This quiz can help you determine if your actions are enabling.
Have you enabled an alcoholic or addict to avoid the consequences of his actions? This quiz can help you determine if your actions are enabling.
Alcohol Withdrawal
When heavy or frequent drinkers suddenly decide to quit "cold turkey" they will experience some physical alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
When heavy or frequent drinkers suddenly decide to quit "cold turkey" they will experience some physical alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Alcohol Screening Quiz
If you consume alcohol it is important to know if your drinking is safe, risky or harmful. This test can help you assess your risks and decide if you have a drinking problem, either alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence or alcoholism.
If you consume alcohol it is important to know if your drinking is safe, risky or harmful. This test can help you assess your risks and decide if you have a drinking problem, either alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence or alcoholism.
Long-Term Effects of Pot?
While all of the long-term effects of marijuana use are not yet known, there are studies showing serious health concerns.
While all of the long-term effects of marijuana use are not yet known, there are studies showing serious health concerns.
Are You Troubled by Someone's Drinking?
Millions of people are affected by the excessive drinking of someone close. The following questions are designed to help you decide whether or not you need Al-Anon.
Millions of people are affected by the excessive drinking of someone close. The following questions are designed to help you decide whether or not you need Al-Anon.
A.A. Meetings by State
The definitive source for finding lists of face-to-face Alcoholic Anonymous meetings on the net.
The definitive source for finding lists of face-to-face Alcoholic Anonymous meetings on the net.
Drug Abuse Screening Quiz
Do you have a substance abuse problem? Take this quiz developed by the Vanderbilt University Addiction Center.
Do you have a substance abuse problem? Take this quiz developed by the Vanderbilt University Addiction Center.
Domestic Abuse Screening Quiz
Is your relationship like most other couples or has it developed into a truly abusive one? Take this quiz to determine if your relationship is considered abusive.
Is your relationship like most other couples or has it developed into a truly abusive one? Take this quiz to determine if your relationship is considered abusive.
Drunk Driving Penalties
What fate awaits those arrested for drunk driving? The drunk driver may be surprised to find that penalties, even the first offense, have been increased drastically.
What fate awaits those arrested for drunk driving? The drunk driver may be surprised to find that penalties, even the first offense, have been increased drastically.
Effects of Cocaine
Cocaine can be snorted, injected and even smoked in some forms of the drug. In all cases cocaine is a strong central nervous system stimulant which affects the brain's processing of dopamine.
Cocaine can be snorted, injected and even smoked in some forms of the drug. In all cases cocaine is a strong central nervous system stimulant which affects the brain's processing of dopamine.
Drug Pictures
If you found illegal drugs in your child's room, would you be able to recognize them? Would you know the difference between harmless allergy medication and dangerous stimulants or sedatives?
If you found illegal drugs in your child's room, would you be able to recognize them? Would you know the difference between harmless allergy medication and dangerous stimulants or sedatives?
Effects of LSD?
Although most LSD trips include both pleasant and unpleasant aspects, the drug's effects are unpredictable.
Although most LSD trips include both pleasant and unpleasant aspects, the drug's effects are unpredictable.
Heroin Facts
Heroin is a highly addictive drug, and its use is a serious problem in the United States. Recent trends show a shift from injecting heroin to snorting or smoking because of increased purity and the misconception that only injecting heroin will lead to addiction.
Heroin is a highly addictive drug, and its use is a serious problem in the United States. Recent trends show a shift from injecting heroin to snorting or smoking because of increased purity and the misconception that only injecting heroin will lead to addiction.
OxyContin Facts
Oxycontin is the time-release form of oxycodone, a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic usually prescribed for chronic and severe pain. Because it contains a larger amount of oxycodone, it has become one of the most abused prescription drugs in the United States.
Oxycontin is the time-release form of oxycodone, a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic usually prescribed for chronic and severe pain. Because it contains a larger amount of oxycodone, it has become one of the most abused prescription drugs in the United States.
Is My Child Using Drugs?
Is your child using alcohol or drugs? Take this quiz to determine if some of the telltell signs of sustance abuse are showing up in your home.
Is your child using alcohol or drugs? Take this quiz to determine if some of the telltell signs of sustance abuse are showing up in your home.
What Is Alcoholism?
The term alcoholism refers to a disease known as alcohol dependence syndrome, the most severe stage of a group of drinking problems which begin with binge drinking and alcohol abuse.
The term alcoholism refers to a disease known as alcohol dependence syndrome, the most severe stage of a group of drinking problems which begin with binge drinking and alcohol abuse.
Symptoms of an Problem?
Certain behaviors are known to be possible early signs of an alcohol problem.
Certain behaviors are known to be possible early signs of an alcohol problem.
Cocaine
Cocaine is a powerfully addictive drug of abuse. Once having tried cocaine, a user cannot predict or control the extent to which he or she will continue to use the drug.
Cocaine is a powerfully addictive drug of abuse. Once having tried cocaine, a user cannot predict or control the extent to which he or she will continue to use the drug.
Antabuse
Antabuse, or disulfiram as it is also known, was the first medicine approved for the treatment of alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence.
Antabuse, or disulfiram as it is also known, was the first medicine approved for the treatment of alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence.
Alcohol Metabolism
Through oxidation, alcohol is detoxified and removed from the blood, preventing the alcohol from accumulating and destroying cells and organs.
Through oxidation, alcohol is detoxified and removed from the blood, preventing the alcohol from accumulating and destroying cells and organs.
Adult Children of Alcoholics
Some common characteristics are observed in adult children of alcoholics. Do any of these sound familiar to you?
Some common characteristics are observed in adult children of alcoholics. Do any of these sound familiar to you?
What Is Marijuana?
Marijuana is a green, brown, or gray mixture of dried, shredded leaves, stems, seeds, and flowers of the hemp plant.
Marijuana is a green, brown, or gray mixture of dried, shredded leaves, stems, seeds, and flowers of the hemp plant.
Alcohol Abuse vs. Dependence
What is the difference between alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence?
What is the difference between alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence?
Getting Treatment
Most people who quit drinking alcohol experience mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms and can usually be treated by healthcare providers on an out-patient basis, but five percent experience severe withdrawal symptoms and must be treated in a hospital or a facility that specializes in detoxification.
Most people who quit drinking alcohol experience mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms and can usually be treated by healthcare providers on an out-patient basis, but five percent experience severe withdrawal symptoms and must be treated in a hospital or a facility that specializes in detoxification.
Alcohol and Pregnancy
Some experts say moderate drinking during pregnancy is okay, but there are others who believe taking even one drink is like playing Russian Roulette with your baby's health.
Some experts say moderate drinking during pregnancy is okay, but there are others who believe taking even one drink is like playing Russian Roulette with your baby's health.
Information for Families
Resources and information for the friends and family members of alcoholics.
Resources and information for the friends and family members of alcoholics.
Bagged Cocaine
Cocaine in plastic bag.
Cocaine in plastic bag.
Short-Term Pot Effects?
The effects are even greater when other drugs are mixed with the marijuana.
The effects are even greater when other drugs are mixed with the marijuana.
Crack Cocaine
Rocks of crack cocaine.
Rocks of crack cocaine.
Depression Screening Quiz
Answer Yes to these questions only if you have had these symptoms for longer than two weeks or if the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your daily routine.
Answer Yes to these questions only if you have had these symptoms for longer than two weeks or if the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your daily routine.
Effects of Heroin
As with most illegal drugs, Heroin use has both short-term and long-term effects. Whether injected, snorted or smoked, heroin will begin to affect the body's central nervous system almost immeidately after it is used.
As with most illegal drugs, Heroin use has both short-term and long-term effects. Whether injected, snorted or smoked, heroin will begin to affect the body's central nervous system almost immeidately after it is used.
Marijuana
Photos of marijuana growing indoors and after it is processed for distribution.
Photos of marijuana growing indoors and after it is processed for distribution.
Am I An Alcoholic?
Take this short quiz to help determine if your drinking is safe, risky or harmful.
Take this short quiz to help determine if your drinking is safe, risky or harmful.
Signs of a Problem?
What Are the Signs of a Problem?
What Are the Signs of a Problem?
What Is Substance Abuse?
Substance abuse can simply be defined as a pattern of harmful use of any substance for mood-altering purposes, but the broad range of substance abuse in today's society is not that simple.
Substance abuse can simply be defined as a pattern of harmful use of any substance for mood-altering purposes, but the broad range of substance abuse in today's society is not that simple.
Impaired Driving
It's not a question of whether you are legally intoxicated, it's a question of whether or not it is safe to drive when you have consumed any amount of alcohol. Research shows that impairment begins long before a person reaches the blood alcohol concentration level of .08.
It's not a question of whether you are legally intoxicated, it's a question of whether or not it is safe to drive when you have consumed any amount of alcohol. Research shows that impairment begins long before a person reaches the blood alcohol concentration level of .08.
Effects of Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine is a highly addictive drug, whether injected, snorted or smoked, that affects the brain and central nervous system. Meth has both short-term and long-term effects on the body.
Methamphetamine is a highly addictive drug, whether injected, snorted or smoked, that affects the brain and central nervous system. Meth has both short-term and long-term effects on the body.
Effects of Cocaine Use?
Once having tried cocaine, an individual may have difficulty predicting or controlling the extent to which he or she will continue to use the drug.
Once having tried cocaine, an individual may have difficulty predicting or controlling the extent to which he or she will continue to use the drug.
Alcoholism FAQs
Here are the questions The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism most often receives about alcohol and alcoholism along with their answers.
Here are the questions The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism most often receives about alcohol and alcoholism along with their answers.
Heroin
Closeup Picture of Heroin
Closeup Picture of Heroin
Short-Term Effects of Cocaine?
Cocaine's effects appear almost immediately after a single dose, and disappear within a few minutes or hours.
Cocaine's effects appear almost immediately after a single dose, and disappear within a few minutes or hours.
Dangers of Drunk Driving
Why drinking and driving increases the risk of having an accident.
Why drinking and driving increases the risk of having an accident.
Treatment of Alcoholism
For alcoholics who have decided to get help for their drinking problem there are many different treatment programs and approaches available, but there is no medical cure.
For alcoholics who have decided to get help for their drinking problem there are many different treatment programs and approaches available, but there is no medical cure.
Latest News
The latest headlines on drug- and- alcohol-related news, updated by your About.com Alcoholism Guide.
The latest headlines on drug- and- alcohol-related news, updated by your About.com Alcoholism Guide.
Alcohol and Breastfeeding
Mothers who breastfeed are receiving conflicting advice, on and off the Internet, about whether it's okay for them to consume alcohol without affecting their babies.
Mothers who breastfeed are receiving conflicting advice, on and off the Internet, about whether it's okay for them to consume alcohol without affecting their babies.
Marijuana Metabolism
The effects of smoking marijuana fade very quickly, but the drug can be detected in the body for weeks and sometimes longer.
The effects of smoking marijuana fade very quickly, but the drug can be detected in the body for weeks and sometimes longer.
Did You Grow Up with a Problem Drinker?
If someone close to you, such as a family member, friend, coworker, or neighbor, has or has had a drinking problem, the following questions, developed by Al-Anon Family Groups, may help you determine if Al-Anon is for you.
If someone close to you, such as a family member, friend, coworker, or neighbor, has or has had a drinking problem, the following questions, developed by Al-Anon Family Groups, may help you determine if Al-Anon is for you.
EtG Urine Test
A widely-used urine test, utilized by drug-testing laboratories to detect alcohol consumption, is too inaccurate to be reliable, according to an advisory issued by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
A widely-used urine test, utilized by drug-testing laboratories to detect alcohol consumption, is too inaccurate to be reliable, according to an advisory issued by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
What is Drug Addiction?
It is characterized by compulsive, at times uncontrollable, drug craving, seeking, and use that persist even in the face of extremely negative consequences.
It is characterized by compulsive, at times uncontrollable, drug craving, seeking, and use that persist even in the face of extremely negative consequences.
Specific Medical Treatment
About 95 percent of people have mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms, but they do not progress to full-blown delirium tremens. Such patients can nearly always be treated as outpatients.
About 95 percent of people have mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms, but they do not progress to full-blown delirium tremens. Such patients can nearly always be treated as outpatients.
Marijuana Leaves
Leaves of a growing marijuana plant
Leaves of a growing marijuana plant
Al-Anon Meetings by State
The definitive source for finding lists of face-to-face Al-Anon meetings on the net.
The definitive source for finding lists of face-to-face Al-Anon meetings on the net.
Drinking Myths
These are the most common misconceptions that many people have about drinking alcohol and the effects of alcohol, along with the actual facts.
These are the most common misconceptions that many people have about drinking alcohol and the effects of alcohol, along with the actual facts.
Binge Drinking Affects Brain
Young people who binge drink could be risking serious damage to their brains now and increasing memory loss later in adulthood.
Young people who binge drink could be risking serious damage to their brains now and increasing memory loss later in adulthood.
The 12 Steps
Over a six-month period, visitors to the Alcoholism site participated in a study of the 12 steps and 12 traditions by sharing their experience, strength, and hope.
Over a six-month period, visitors to the Alcoholism site participated in a study of the 12 steps and 12 traditions by sharing their experience, strength, and hope.
Effects of PCP?
Its sedative and anesthetic effects are trance-like, and patients experience a feeling of being "out of body" and detached from their environment.
Its sedative and anesthetic effects are trance-like, and patients experience a feeling of being "out of body" and detached from their environment.
Campral Treatment
Campral (acamprosate calcium) is the most recent medication approved for the treatment of alcohol dependence or alcoholism in the United States -- approved by the Food and Drug Administration in July 2004 -- but it has been used widely in Europe for many years.
Campral (acamprosate calcium) is the most recent medication approved for the treatment of alcohol dependence or alcoholism in the United States -- approved by the Food and Drug Administration in July 2004 -- but it has been used widely in Europe for many years.
Decided to Stop Drinking?
If you have decided, for whatever reason, that you want to stop drinking, there is a world of help and support available.
If you have decided, for whatever reason, that you want to stop drinking, there is a world of help and support available.
Images of Brain Damage
Innovations in imaging technology has helped alcohol researchers study how alcohol damages internal organs, such as the brain and the liver.
Innovations in imaging technology has helped alcohol researchers study how alcohol damages internal organs, such as the brain and the liver.
Dry Drunk
They haven't had a drink in years, but still haven't gotten to the Sober part.
They haven't had a drink in years, but still haven't gotten to the Sober part.
Marijuana Seeds and Joints
Marijuana, marijuana seeds and marijuana cigarettes, or joints.
Marijuana, marijuana seeds and marijuana cigarettes, or joints.
Alcohol Dementia
Excessive drinking over a period of years may lead to Alcohol Dementia which affects memory, learning and other functions
Excessive drinking over a period of years may lead to Alcohol Dementia which affects memory, learning and other functions
Drinking Problem?
There are many diagnostics tests available online that can help you self-evaluate your drinking, but none of them should substitute for professional medical advice.
There are many diagnostics tests available online that can help you self-evaluate your drinking, but none of them should substitute for professional medical advice.
Long-term Heroin Effects?
One of the most detrimental long-term effects of heroin is addiction itself.
One of the most detrimental long-term effects of heroin is addiction itself.
Crack Cocaine Bags
Small bags of crack cocaine, ready for sale.
Small bags of crack cocaine, ready for sale.
How Can I Get Him to Stop?
When visitors to the Alcoholism site at About.com ask the above questions about the drinker in their lives the answer is not simple.
When visitors to the Alcoholism site at About.com ask the above questions about the drinker in their lives the answer is not simple.
Bag of Marijuana
Plastic bag of marijuana.
Plastic bag of marijuana.
Ecstasy Facts
Ecstasy or MDMA is a synthetic, psychoactive (mind-altering) drug with hallucinogenic and amphetamine-like properties. Its chemical structure is similar to two other synthetic drugs, MDA and methamphetamine, which are known to cause brain damage.
Ecstasy or MDMA is a synthetic, psychoactive (mind-altering) drug with hallucinogenic and amphetamine-like properties. Its chemical structure is similar to two other synthetic drugs, MDA and methamphetamine, which are known to cause brain damage.
Black Tar Heroin
Black Tar Heroin
Black Tar Heroin
Ice Methamphetamine
Bag of Ice Methamphetamine
Bag of Ice Methamphetamine
Enabling
Many times when family and friends try to help alcoholics, they are actually making it easier for them to continue in the progression of the disease.
Many times when family and friends try to help alcoholics, they are actually making it easier for them to continue in the progression of the disease.
Adult Child Screening Quiz
Did you grow up with a problem drinker? Those who grow up in homes where there is alcohol abuse or alcoholism are sometimes affected in ways they do not even realize.
Did you grow up with a problem drinker? Those who grow up in homes where there is alcohol abuse or alcoholism are sometimes affected in ways they do not even realize.
Indoor Marijuana Plants
Photo of indoor marijuana seized by the DEA.
Photo of indoor marijuana seized by the DEA.
Functional Alcoholic
Many people think of alcoholics as disheveled, homeless winos who have lost everything, but there are people who meet the criteria for a medical diagnosis for alcohol dependence who are highly functional in society and still have their jobs, homes and families.
Many people think of alcoholics as disheveled, homeless winos who have lost everything, but there are people who meet the criteria for a medical diagnosis for alcohol dependence who are highly functional in society and still have their jobs, homes and families.
Enabling Test
Often well-meaning efforts to help someone with an alcohol or drug problem actually empowers them to continue their destructive behavior by allowing them to avoid the consequences of their actions.
Often well-meaning efforts to help someone with an alcohol or drug problem actually empowers them to continue their destructive behavior by allowing them to avoid the consequences of their actions.
Alcohol's Health Effects
Find out how alcohol can affect your health.
Find out how alcohol can affect your health.
Marijuana Cigarettes
Two rolled marijuana cigarettes (joints)
Two rolled marijuana cigarettes (joints)
A Safe Level of Drinking?
Most adults can drink moderate amounts of alcohol -- up to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women and older people.
Most adults can drink moderate amounts of alcohol -- up to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women and older people.
Different Types of Hepatitis?
There are 5 types of hepatitis - A, B, C, D, and E - each caused by a different hepatitis virus.
There are 5 types of hepatitis - A, B, C, D, and E - each caused by a different hepatitis virus.
Baggies of Cocaine
Baggies of cocaine ready for sale.
Baggies of cocaine ready for sale.
Addiction Treatment FAQs
The following are the most frequently asked questions about drug addiction treatment, compiled by the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
The following are the most frequently asked questions about drug addiction treatment, compiled by the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
MDMA and the Brain
MDMA affects the brain by increasing the activity of at least three neurotransmitters (the chemical messengers of brain cells): serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
MDMA affects the brain by increasing the activity of at least three neurotransmitters (the chemical messengers of brain cells): serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
Does Treatment Work?
Alcoholism treatment is effective in many cases.
Alcoholism treatment is effective in many cases.
Alcohol Liver Disease
He knew the only way to save his life was to stop drinking, but he just couldn't stop, no matter how he tried.
He knew the only way to save his life was to stop drinking, but he just couldn't stop, no matter how he tried.
Alcoholism As a Disease
Alcoholism -- It doesn't act like a disease
Alcoholism -- It doesn't act like a disease
Problem Drinker
Many people who have a problem with alcohol are not alcoholics, and in order to quit drinking they do not necessarily need medical treatment, peer group support, or a spiritual awakening.
Many people who have a problem with alcohol are not alcoholics, and in order to quit drinking they do not necessarily need medical treatment, peer group support, or a spiritual awakening.
Alcohol and Tolerance - Developing a Tolerance for Alcohol
Tolerance means that after continued drinking, consumption of a constant amount of alcohol produces a lesser effect.
Tolerance means that after continued drinking, consumption of a constant amount of alcohol produces a lesser effect.
Stages of Rehab
If you decide to enter a professional alcohol and drug treatment program, you will begin a journey through four distinct stages of rehab recovery to learn to live a clean and sober lifestyle.
If you decide to enter a professional alcohol and drug treatment program, you will begin a journey through four distinct stages of rehab recovery to learn to live a clean and sober lifestyle.
N.A. Meetings by State
The definitive source for finding lists of face-to-face Narcotics Anonymous meetings on the net.
The definitive source for finding lists of face-to-face Narcotics Anonymous meetings on the net.
Alcoholism Is a Family Disease
Alcoholism is a disease that can affect every member of the family even if they do not realize they are being affected at the time.
Alcoholism is a disease that can affect every member of the family even if they do not realize they are being affected at the time.
Pharmaceutical Treatment
There are currently only three medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Adminstration for the treatment of alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence.
There are currently only three medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Adminstration for the treatment of alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence.
The Lower Drinking Age Debate
Because of the high-profile arrests of President Bush's 19-year-old daughter for underage drinking offenses, suddenly the debate about lowering the legal drinking age is back in the spotlight.
Because of the high-profile arrests of President Bush's 19-year-old daughter for underage drinking offenses, suddenly the debate about lowering the legal drinking age is back in the spotlight.
Alcohol and Sleep - Drinking Alcohol and Sleep
Alcohol consumption can induce sleep disorders by disrupting the sequence and duration of sleep states and by altering total sleep time.
Alcohol consumption can induce sleep disorders by disrupting the sequence and duration of sleep states and by altering total sleep time.
Pot Impairs Male Fertility
Men who smoke marijuana frequently have significantly less seminal fluid, a lower total sperm count and their sperm behave abnormally, all of which may affect fertility adversely.
Men who smoke marijuana frequently have significantly less seminal fluid, a lower total sperm count and their sperm behave abnormally, all of which may affect fertility adversely.
Types of Alcohol Problems?
It is important to note that alcohol problems occur along a continuum of severity.
It is important to note that alcohol problems occur along a continuum of severity.
Alcohol - Getting the Facts
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has prepared this information to help individuals and families answer these and other common questions about alcohol problems.
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has prepared this information to help individuals and families answer these and other common questions about alcohol problems.
Games Alcoholic Families Play
You are not the cause of someone else's drinking problem, you cannot cure it and you can't control it, but you can contribute to it if you are playing a role in the alcoholic family drama.
You are not the cause of someone else's drinking problem, you cannot cure it and you can't control it, but you can contribute to it if you are playing a role in the alcoholic family drama.
Diagnosis of Alcoholism
Diagnosing alcoholism can be tricky, since the diagnosis depends on the drinker being willing to honestly answer a series of questions about his or her drinking patterns and attitudes.
Diagnosing alcoholism can be tricky, since the diagnosis depends on the drinker being willing to honestly answer a series of questions about his or her drinking patterns and attitudes.
Personal Recovery Stories
Visitors share their experience strength and hope with stories of their person journey in recovery.
Visitors share their experience strength and hope with stories of their person journey in recovery.
Kevin's Story
What is going through delirium tremens like? Most people who have endured them usually do not remember the experience.
What is going through delirium tremens like? Most people who have endured them usually do not remember the experience.
Domestic Abuse
Whether alcohol and drug abuse is a factor or not, domestic violence and abuse is a very serious problem -- for the victims and the abusers
Whether alcohol and drug abuse is a factor or not, domestic violence and abuse is a very serious problem -- for the victims and the abusers
Cocaine Bricks
Kilogram bricks of cocaine with a scorpion logo.
Kilogram bricks of cocaine with a scorpion logo.
Marijuan Myths
Use of marijuana has adverse health, safety, social, academic, economic, and behavioral consequences -- and children are the most vulnerable to its damaging effects.
Use of marijuana has adverse health, safety, social, academic, economic, and behavioral consequences -- and children are the most vulnerable to its damaging effects.
Marijuana Bud
Photo of marijuana bud.
Photo of marijuana bud.
Healthy Relationships
If you are trying to maintain abstinence from drugs or alcohol, it is very important that you develop positive, healthy relationships to support you during your recovery process.
If you are trying to maintain abstinence from drugs or alcohol, it is very important that you develop positive, healthy relationships to support you during your recovery process.
Types of Alcoholics
Dispelling the myth of the typical alcoholic, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism researchers have identified five subtypes of alcoholics from a study of 1,484 people.
Dispelling the myth of the typical alcoholic, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism researchers have identified five subtypes of alcoholics from a study of 1,484 people.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Cognitive Behavior Therapy is mostly used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, phobias, delusional disorder and other mental disorders, but it has also been shown to be valuable in treating alcoholism and drug addiction.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy is mostly used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, phobias, delusional disorder and other mental disorders, but it has also been shown to be valuable in treating alcoholism and drug addiction.
What Is MDMA?
MDMA is an illegal drug that acts as both a stimulant and hallucinogen, producing an energizing effect, as well as distortions in time and perception and enhanced enjoyment from tactile experiences.
MDMA is an illegal drug that acts as both a stimulant and hallucinogen, producing an energizing effect, as well as distortions in time and perception and enhanced enjoyment from tactile experiences.
Smuggled Cocaine
Bulk packages of smuggled cocaine.
Bulk packages of smuggled cocaine.
Key to Serenity - Page 449
Accepting things exactly as they are can be the key that unlocks the door to happiness
Accepting things exactly as they are can be the key that unlocks the door to happiness
Crystal Meth
Picture of Methamphetamine Crystals
Picture of Methamphetamine Crystals
What Happens If You Smoke Pot?
The effects of the drug on each person depend on the user's experience.
The effects of the drug on each person depend on the user's experience.
Effects of MDMA?
MDMA has become a popular drug, in part because of the positive effects that a person experiences within an hour or so after taking a single dose.
MDMA has become a popular drug, in part because of the positive effects that a person experiences within an hour or so after taking a single dose.
Meth and Meth Pipe
Picture of Ice Methamphetamine and Pipe
Picture of Ice Methamphetamine and Pipe
Short-term Heroin Effects?
In the brain, heroin is converted to morphine and binds rapidly to opioid receptors.
In the brain, heroin is converted to morphine and binds rapidly to opioid receptors.
Can I Help an Alcoholic?
An alcoholic cannot be forced to get help except under certain circumstances, such as when a violent incident results in police being called or following a medical emergency.
An alcoholic cannot be forced to get help except under certain circumstances, such as when a violent incident results in police being called or following a medical emergency.
Crystal Meth Closeup
Closeup Picture of Crystal Meth
Closeup Picture of Crystal Meth
Heavy Drinking Dangers
Two more research studies have emphasized the serious health effects of long-term heavy drinking, from an increased risk for having accidents to developing liver cancer.
Two more research studies have emphasized the serious health effects of long-term heavy drinking, from an increased risk for having accidents to developing liver cancer.
Health Effects of Drugs
Use or abuse of other drugs, be they legal or illegal, can create a wide variety of mental and physical health problems.
Use or abuse of other drugs, be they legal or illegal, can create a wide variety of mental and physical health problems.
Marijuana Growing Indoors
Marijuana plants growing indoors.
Marijuana plants growing indoors.
Al-Anon Topics
These are topics which frequently are of interest to newcomers to Al-Anon Family Groups.
These are topics which frequently are of interest to newcomers to Al-Anon Family Groups.
State DUI Laws
Laws regarding drunk driving vary from state to state. These pages explain the highlights of the laws of each state in the U.S. for driving under the influence, driving while intoxicated or operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
Laws regarding drunk driving vary from state to state. These pages explain the highlights of the laws of each state in the U.S. for driving under the influence, driving while intoxicated or operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
Alcohol and Diabetes
Some people who have diabetes can safely drink moderate amounts of alcohol, but for others any amount of alcohol intake can have very negative health consequences.
Some people who have diabetes can safely drink moderate amounts of alcohol, but for others any amount of alcohol intake can have very negative health consequences.
Marijuana Ready for Sale
Small quanity of marijuana ready for sale.
Small quanity of marijuana ready for sale.
What Drugs are Abused?
Theses drugs and substances are the most commonly abused in the United States, according to the National Institute of Drug Abuse.
Theses drugs and substances are the most commonly abused in the United States, according to the National Institute of Drug Abuse.
Marijuana - FAQs for Teens
These questions compiled by the National Institute on Drug Abuse are the most asked by teens concerning marijuana.
These questions compiled by the National Institute on Drug Abuse are the most asked by teens concerning marijuana.
Children of Alcoholics - Are They Different?
An estimated 6.6 million children under the age of 18 years live in households with at least one alcoholic parent.
An estimated 6.6 million children under the age of 18 years live in households with at least one alcoholic parent.
What Do We Mean By Alcoholism?
Alcoholism, also known as "alcohol dependence," is a disease that includes alcohol craving and continued drinking despite repeated alcohol-related problems.
Alcoholism, also known as "alcohol dependence," is a disease that includes alcohol craving and continued drinking despite repeated alcohol-related problems.
Asian Heroin
Brown and White Asian Heroin
Brown and White Asian Heroin
Powdered Heroin
Powdered Heroin
Powdered Heroin
Coca Leaves
Coca leaves from which powdered cocaine is manufactured.
Coca leaves from which powdered cocaine is manufactured.
Short Alcohol Tests
Although there are hundreds of alcohol screening tests available, including some elaborate ones with up to 100 questions, short screening tests with only a few questions have been developed to encourage diagnosis in primary and emergency health-care situations.
Although there are hundreds of alcohol screening tests available, including some elaborate ones with up to 100 questions, short screening tests with only a few questions have been developed to encourage diagnosis in primary and emergency health-care situations.
Family Intervention (Part 1)
Sometimes when the alcoholic's problems reach the crisis level, the only choice left to his family is professional intervention.
Sometimes when the alcoholic's problems reach the crisis level, the only choice left to his family is professional intervention.
Slang Terms for Pot?
Slang terms for drugs change quickly, and they vary from one part of the country to another.
Slang terms for drugs change quickly, and they vary from one part of the country to another.
Marijuana's Harm
Young people who do not smoke marijuana end up with a better quality of life and higher levels of educational achievement than their peers who do smoke marijuana. Those who do smoke pot early in life have lower incomes and greater health problems later in life, according to a study.
Young people who do not smoke marijuana end up with a better quality of life and higher levels of educational achievement than their peers who do smoke marijuana. Those who do smoke pot early in life have lower incomes and greater health problems later in life, according to a study.
Alcohol Withdrawal - Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome
The alcohol withdrawal syndrome is a cluster of symptoms observed in persons who stop drinking alcohol following continuous and heavy consumption.
The alcohol withdrawal syndrome is a cluster of symptoms observed in persons who stop drinking alcohol following continuous and heavy consumption.
Ecstasy Pills
Picture of Ecstasy Pills
Picture of Ecstasy Pills
Too Much Alcohol?
How do you know if you are drinking at a safe level? How much alcohol can you drink and still be considered a low-risk drinker? How much is high-risk?
How do you know if you are drinking at a safe level? How much alcohol can you drink and still be considered a low-risk drinker? How much is high-risk?
How Does Pot Affect Driving?
Marijuana has serious harmful effects on the skills required to drive safely - alertness, the ability to concentrate, coordination, and the ability to react quickly.
Marijuana has serious harmful effects on the skills required to drive safely - alertness, the ability to concentrate, coordination, and the ability to react quickly.
Relapse Warnings
An alcohol or drug relapse does not begin when you pick up your drug of choice, it is a process that begins long before actual use.
An alcohol or drug relapse does not begin when you pick up your drug of choice, it is a process that begins long before actual use.
Word Game: 12 Step Slogans
Slogans from the 12-step programs are the subject of this word game, which is an online version of the old Hangman game.
Slogans from the 12-step programs are the subject of this word game, which is an online version of the old Hangman game.
Alcoholism - Is it Inherited?
There is a growing body of scientific evidence that alcoholism has a genetic component.
There is a growing body of scientific evidence that alcoholism has a genetic component.
Drug Addiction
Finding the right treatment program involves careful consideration of such things as the setting, length of care, philosophical approach and your or your loved one's needs.
Finding the right treatment program involves careful consideration of such things as the setting, length of care, philosophical approach and your or your loved one's needs.
Cocaine Baggie
Cocaine wrapped in plastic and ready to be sold.
Cocaine wrapped in plastic and ready to be sold.