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.
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.
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.
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.
Symptoms of Alcoholism
There are many symptoms of drinking problems, but there are seven major symptoms of the most severe drinking problem, alcohol dependence or alcoholism.
There are many symptoms of drinking problems, but there are seven major symptoms of the most severe drinking problem, alcohol dependence or alcoholism.
Alcohol Withdrawal
When heavy or frequent drinkers suddenly decide to quit "cold turkey" they will experience some physical withdrawal symptoms.
When heavy or frequent drinkers suddenly decide to quit "cold turkey" they will experience some physical withdrawal symptoms.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Signs of a Problem?
What Are the Signs of a Problem?
What Are the Signs of a Problem?
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
Alcohol Abuse vs. Dependence
What is the difference between alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence?
What is the difference between alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence?
Avoid Substituting Addictions
It is easy for alcoholics and addicts new to recovery to substitute one addiction for another, becoming obsessive or compulsive about other behaviors.
It is easy for alcoholics and addicts new to recovery to substitute one addiction for another, becoming obsessive or compulsive about other behaviors.
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.
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.
Drunk Driving Penalties
What fate awaits those arrested for drunk driving? They may be surprised to find that penalties, even the first offense, have been increased drastically.
What fate awaits those arrested for drunk driving? They may be surprised to find that penalties, even the first offense, have been increased drastically.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 drama.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Al-Anon Test
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
Bagged Cocaine
Cocaine in plastic bag.
Cocaine in plastic bag.
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.
Non-Alcoholic Beer
Those trying to abstain from alcohol are warned against the use of non-alcoholic beer, now there may be scientific evidence to support the admonition
Those trying to abstain from alcohol are warned against the use of non-alcoholic beer, now there may be scientific evidence to support the admonition
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.
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.
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.
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.
Heroin
Closeup Picture of Heroin
Closeup Picture of Heroin
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.
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.
Detachment
For the friends and family of the alcoholic, the key to serenity is finding the wisdom to know the difference between what they can and cannot change and detaching with love.
For the friends and family of the alcoholic, the key to serenity is finding the wisdom to know the difference between what they can and cannot change and detaching with love.
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.
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.
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.
Does Treatment Work?
Alcoholism treatment is effective in many cases.
Alcoholism treatment is effective in many cases.
Are You Addicted?
Not everyone who uses drugs becomes addicted, but substance abuse can cause problems for individuals whether they are technically addicted or not. There are different levels of substance abuse, and all of them can be dangerous.
Not everyone who uses drugs becomes addicted, but substance abuse can cause problems for individuals whether they are technically addicted or not. There are different levels of substance abuse, and all of them can be dangerous.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Alcoholism As a Disease
Alcoholism -- It doesn't act like a disease
Alcoholism -- It doesn't act like a disease
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.
New Jersey A.A. Meetings
Find a meeting near you in New Jersey
Find a meeting near you in New Jersey
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.
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.
Denial
One of the most frustrating factors in dealing with alcoholism, as a relative, friend or professional, is it is almost always accompanied by a phenomenon known as denial.
One of the most frustrating factors in dealing with alcoholism, as a relative, friend or professional, is it is almost always accompanied by a phenomenon known as denial.
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.
Alcohol and Blood Pressure
Even modest amounts of alcohol consumption can cause blood pressure to increase, according to two recent studies conducted in Japan.
Even modest amounts of alcohol consumption can cause blood pressure to increase, according to two recent studies conducted in Japan.
Fentanyl Abuse
Drug abusers misusing prescription fentanyl pain patches, which are designed to slowly release the painkiller, to get a quick high are running the risk of dying from an overdose of the drug, which is 100 times more potent than morphine.
Drug abusers misusing prescription fentanyl pain patches, which are designed to slowly release the painkiller, to get a quick high are running the risk of dying from an overdose of the drug, which is 100 times more potent than morphine.
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.
The Many Facets of Enabling
If you find your self locked in to playing a role in the alcoholic's life, maybe it's time to call time out and examine the consequencies of your actions.
If you find your self locked in to playing a role in the alcoholic's life, maybe it's time to call time out and examine the consequencies of your actions.
Crack Cocaine
Rocks of crack cocaine.
Rocks of crack cocaine.
Self-Assessment Tests
Alcohol and drug use can progress into abuse and even addition so insidiously that sometimes people do not realize that their drinking or drugging has become a real problem for them and those around them.
Alcohol and drug use can progress into abuse and even addition so insidiously that sometimes people do not realize that their drinking or drugging has become a real problem for them and those around them.
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.
Finally, A Pill for Alcohol...
In what is being called a major scientific advance and a landmark discovery which could change the direction of alcoholism treatmet, scientists have found that an anti-seizure drug usually prescribed for epileptic patients is highly effective in helping alcohol-dependent individuals stop drinking.
In what is being called a major scientific advance and a landmark discovery which could change the direction of alcoholism treatmet, scientists have found that an anti-seizure drug usually prescribed for epileptic patients is highly effective in helping alcohol-dependent individuals stop drinking.
Moderate Drinking
Moderate drinking may be defined as drinking that does not generally cause problems, either for the drinker or for society.
Moderate drinking may be defined as drinking that does not generally cause problems, either for the drinker or for society.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Acute Alcohol Poisoning
Do you know what to do if one of your friends becomes unconscious?
Do you know what to do if one of your friends becomes unconscious?
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.
Alcohol Poisoning?
Answers to frequently asked questions from the About.com Alcoholism / Substance Abuse site.
Answers to frequently asked questions from the About.com Alcoholism / Substance Abuse site.
New Treatment For Hepatitis C
A new treatment for Hepatitis C which includes a longer-acting form of interferon has been found to cure more patients and cause less side effects, in a study conducted in 81 medical centers.
A new treatment for Hepatitis C which includes a longer-acting form of interferon has been found to cure more patients and cause less side effects, in a study conducted in 81 medical centers.
Crack Cocaine Bags
Small bags of crack cocaine, ready for sale.
Small bags of crack cocaine, ready for sale.
Maintaining Abstinence
Once you have achieved abstinence for a period of time and began living a drug- or alcohol-free lifestyle, it is time to begin to put the tools you learned in early abstinence to work toward maintaining abstinence.
Once you have achieved abstinence for a period of time and began living a drug- or alcohol-free lifestyle, it is time to begin to put the tools you learned in early abstinence to work toward maintaining abstinence.
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.
New Hampshire A.A. Meetings
Find a meeting near you in New Hampshire
Find a meeting near you in New Hampshire
A Test for Alcoholism?
A good first step is to answer the brief questionnaire below, developed by Dr. John Ewing.
A good first step is to answer the brief questionnaire below, developed by Dr. John Ewing.
Benefits of Alcohol Recovery
When you quit drinking after years of alcohol abuse, not only will your body begin to reverse the effects of the excess alcohol on your body, you will simply feel better.
When you quit drinking after years of alcohol abuse, not only will your body begin to reverse the effects of the excess alcohol on your body, you will simply feel better.
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.
Cocaine Bricks
Kilogram bricks of cocaine with a scorpion logo.
Kilogram bricks of cocaine with a scorpion logo.
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.
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
Children of Alcoholics
Growing up in home with an active alcoholic can affect how a child looks at life and almost everything in it even years after childhood.
Growing up in home with an active alcoholic can affect how a child looks at life and almost everything in it even years after childhood.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Daily Drinkers
If you are a daily drinker, you can reduce your risk of developing liver disease significantly if you start planning several alcohol-free days every week.
If you are a daily drinker, you can reduce your risk of developing liver disease significantly if you start planning several alcohol-free days every week.
Free Rehab Programs
My husband lost his job and started drinking heavily and now he wants to get help to quit drinking. But we have little money and no insurance. What can we do?
My husband lost his job and started drinking heavily and now he wants to get help to quit drinking. But we have little money and no insurance. What can we do?
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.
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.
Alcohol Relapse and Craving
There is evidence that approximately 90 percent of alcoholics are likely to experience at least one relapse over the 4-year period following treatment.
There is evidence that approximately 90 percent of alcoholics are likely to experience at least one relapse over the 4-year period following treatment.
Naltrexone Treatment
Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist used primarily in the management of alcohol dependence and opioid addiction. Naltrexone hydrochloride is sold as the brand name Revia and Depade. An extended-release form of Naltrexone is marketed in some countries under the trade name Vivitrol.
Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist used primarily in the management of alcohol dependence and opioid addiction. Naltrexone hydrochloride is sold as the brand name Revia and Depade. An extended-release form of Naltrexone is marketed in some countries under the trade name Vivitrol.
Canadian Treatment Centres
A list of Alcohol and Drug Treatment Centers in Canada that have web sites.
A list of Alcohol and Drug Treatment Centers in Canada that have web sites.
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.
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.
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.
Ice Methamphetamine
Bag of Ice Methamphetamine
Bag of Ice Methamphetamine
Free Recovery Greetings
Send a customized greeting card to your friends in recovery from a collection of original designs by Annie H.
Send a customized greeting card to your friends in recovery from a collection of original designs by Annie H.
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.
What Is Alcohol Abuse?
Alcohol abuse differs from alcoholism in that it does not include an extremely strong craving for alcohol, loss of control, or physical dependence.
Alcohol abuse differs from alcoholism in that it does not include an extremely strong craving for alcohol, loss of control, or physical dependence.
Black Tar Heroin
Black Tar Heroin
Black Tar Heroin
Alcohol Abuse and Dependence - Diagnostic Criteria for Alcohol Abuse and Dependence
Diagnosis is the process of identifying and labeling specific conditions such as alcohol abuse or dependence.
Diagnosis is the process of identifying and labeling specific conditions such as alcohol abuse or dependence.
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.
Crystal Meth
Picture of Methamphetamine Crystals
Picture of Methamphetamine Crystals
Al-Anon Conference Approved Literature
Of all the 12-step programs, Al-Anon Family Groups has probably the most extensive library of Conference Approved Literature.
Of all the 12-step programs, Al-Anon Family Groups has probably the most extensive library of Conference Approved Literature.
The AUDIT Test
The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) is used to detect alcohol problems experienced in the last year. It is one of the most accurate alcohol screening test available, rated 94 percent effective in detecting hazardous or harmful drinking.
The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) is used to detect alcohol problems experienced in the last year. It is one of the most accurate alcohol screening test available, rated 94 percent effective in detecting hazardous or harmful drinking.
Michigan Al-Anon Meetings
Find an Al-Anon Family Group meeting near you in Michigan.
Find an Al-Anon Family Group meeting near you in Michigan.
Female Drinking Affects Brain
Medical research continues to reveal greater health risks for women who drink compared to men. The latest studies show that females face more brain damage than men who drink the same amount for the same period of time.
Medical research continues to reveal greater health risks for women who drink compared to men. The latest studies show that females face more brain damage than men who drink the same amount for the same period of time.
Crystal Meth Closeup
Closeup Picture of Crystal Meth
Closeup Picture of Crystal Meth
Alcohol's Health Effects
Find out how alcohol can affect your health.
Find out how alcohol can affect your health.
Alcoholism - QuickTips
An index of QuickTips for the Alcoholism guide site.
An index of QuickTips for the Alcoholism guide site.
July Thoughts
Read an inspirational recovery thought for each day of the year at the About.com Alcoholism / Substance Abuse site.
Read an inspirational recovery thought for each day of the year at the About.com Alcoholism / Substance Abuse site.