Drug Addiction & Abuse

Living with both schizophrenia and a substance use disorder, known as dual diagnosis, creates complex challenges that impact roughly 40-50% of individuals with schizophrenia. Effective treatment requires an integrated care model that simultaneously addresses both the mental health condition and substance use through comprehensive assessment and evidence-based therapies. With the right support system, including medical […]

The article discusses the unique challenges single mothers face that make them vulnerable to addiction (financial strain, emotional overload, social isolation, trauma, and biological factors). It outlines significant barriers to seeking treatment, such as the lack of childcare, high financial cost, fear of losing child custody, and intense social stigma. Finally, the article advocates for […]

The article discusses the hidden risks of anti-anxiety drugs, particularly benzodiazepines, highlighting that while they offer relief, they pose significant dangers like physical dependence, addiction, severe withdrawal, and long-term cognitive effects, especially for individuals with a history of substance abuse. It emphasizes the need to distinguish between physical dependence and addiction, and urges readers to […]

Before diving into this discussion on how cannabis legalization affects students’ academic performance, it’s helpful first to understand my role in this context. I am the Vice President of Educational Partnerships at Mountainside Treatment Center, and my goal is to ensure that no student loses their education to substance use disorder. Students should not have […]

The Dopey podcast, created by Mountainside alumni Dave and Chris, provides a raw, unfiltered, and often hilarious take on addiction and recovery, initially focusing on “war stories” but evolving into the supportive “Dopey Nation” community. The podcast resonates with thousands who feel isolated by traditional methods by embracing dark comedy and honest storytelling, proving that […]

The article discusses the pervasive stigma surrounding addiction, which is rooted in cultural views, media portrayals, and judgmental language, and how this stigma creates significant barriers to recovery, leading to reduced treatment seeking and higher relapse rates. It emphasizes that recovery is diverse, highlighting alternative paths like SMART Recovery and Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), and urges […]

The article discusses “hippie flipping,” the practice of mixing MDMA and psilocybin mushrooms, and warns of the significant risks involved, including increased anxiety, physical health problems, and potential long-term psychological effects. It highlights the unpredictable interactions between the two substances and emphasizes the importance of seeking help if someone experiences negative consequences. Ultimately, the article […]

A drug addiction intervention can be a life-changing moment for someone struggling with SUD. Approach your loved one calmy and kindly with these steps.

Men in sobriety face unique challenges that can be hurdles to long-term success. See what issues sober men endure and how to handle them.

Alcohol is a danger in itself but can be especially lethal when mixed with certain drugs. Learn about drug and alcohol combinations to avoid at all costs.

Drug abuse always carries the risk of serious side effects, including overdose. Understand the causes and symptoms behind an overdose.

Co-occurring disorders, also referred to as comorbidity, occur when a person has a substance use disorder and another mental health issue.