ALCOHOL
When the line is crossed from social drinking to alcohol abuse, short and long-term effects are varied and many.
When alcohol use becomes abuse, cravings begin. The cycle of craving, use and then remorse, come to light in short order.
Short-term memory loss may occur. A blackout (losing memory of time and events) episode may occur regularly as well. Blackout is as if the abuser is dreaming, but to everyone else he or she is awake and acting as if fully conscious. Blackouts are an extremely dangerous effect of alcohol use. During a blackout the alcoholic can do things and not even remember them.
Other physical effects run the gamut from long-term liver damage to depression. External problems run from legal problems to relationship trauma (and drama). Often, the ability to manage ones’ own life is disrupted. One gets “off track” while abusing alcohol.
Over time, as tolerance builds, the effects of alcohol on each individual may vary, craving will continue as major physical costs mount.
Some of the these complications include heart disease, heart attack, stroke, respiratory failure, seizure, dangerously elevated blood pressure, liver disease and brain damage.
The things lost become more important and valuable.
Alcohol abuse effects are monumental and devastating.


The cycle of addiction can be broken – and it begins with getting the addicted individual in to treatment. The recovery process will begin for the entire intervention network.


Change begins. Call us now for help – our certified treatment specialists are available 24/7 – (800) 763-1597.

COCAINE
When cocaine is used and abused, short & long-term effects are many.


Cocaine use is damaging to the body and the consequences related to cocaine will often lead to permanent damage, addiction & death. While each person responds differently to cocaine use, many short and long-term effects occur. Frequent short-term use effects include:

1. increased energy
2. decreased appetite
3. unexplained, oftentimes dramatic, weight loss
4. increased heart rate & increased blood pressure
5. dilated pupils
6. elevated temperature
7. nose trouble – sniffing, runny nose and/or nose bleeds

Many begin cocaine to get a quick pick-me-up, or to drop twenty pounds, or sometimes, just to have fun with friends. While these results may seem promising in the beginning, those prone to addiction will find it difficult to stop using.
While using, one may go for days without eating and if this behavior is continued – can lead to addiction. In increasined quantities, cocaine will intensify the high. At these times, erratic & violent behavior may occur.
Over time, as tolerance builds, the effects of cocaine on each individual may vary, yet as a highly addictive drug, the craving will continue while major physical costs mount.
Some of the these complications include heart disease, heart attack, stroke, respiratory failure, seizure, dangerously elevated blood pressure, and stomach problems.
As the abuse becomes habitual, the cycle of craving and use ushers in lying, cheating, stealing, absenteeism at work and denying the use of cocaine. Other long-term effects oftentimes include irritability, hallucinations, dramatic mood changes, interrupted sleep patterns and general restlessness.
Other physical effects run the gamut from long-term liver damage to depression. External problems run from legal problems to relationship trauma (and drama). Often, the ability to manage ones’ own life is disrupted. One gets “off track” while abusing cocaine.
The things lost become more important and valuable.


The cycle of addiction can be broken – and it begins with getting the addicted individual in to treatment. The recovery process will begin for the entire intervention network.


Change begins. Call us now for help – our certified treatment specialists are available 24/7 – (800) 763-1597.


PRESCRIPTION DRUGS
(OxyContin, Darvon, Vicodin, Dilaudid, Demerol, Lomotil, Xanax, Valium)
Prescription drugs are often an unmentioned arena of addiction, though the patterns of loss & destruction wrought by Rx drugs are no less threatening than crack cocaine or heroin.


The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that more than nine million people in the US use prescription drugs for non-medical purposes.


Painkillers. Anti-anxiety. Uppers. Downers. Sleeping aids.


Many become addicted to this class of drugs following a legitimate prescription following an accident or surgery. Addiction begins, and the cycle of taking the pills to answer the addiction follows. “I take the pill…I feel good!” we hear the addicted say. It’s this connection which leads to addiction. Thus, the cycle of craving, use and then regret begin to become the new ‘normal’.
For many who have become addicted to prescription drugs, a medically supervised detox is imperative, as going “cold turkey” can be very dangerous. Several classes of prescription drugs require a medically supervised detox.
Over time, as tolerance builds, the effects of Rx medications on each individual may vary, yet as highly addictive drugs, cravings will continue while major physical costs mount.
Life becomes more and more unmanageable. The things lost become more important & valuable.


The cycle of addiction can be broken – and it begins with getting the addicted individual in to treatment. The recovery process will begin for the entire intervention network.


Change begins. Call us now for help – our certified treatment specialists are available 24/7 – (800) 763-1597.

POT
Pot, or marijuana addiction, has telltale signs that are discussed in detail below. For the person struggling with pot addiction, now is never the right time, to cut back and stop using. For many addicted individuals, pot is a stepping-stone drug – the drug that leads to cocaine, heroin or meth addiction.
With pot, the addicted individual is obsessed with these questions:

1. do I have any?
2. If not, where can I buy some?
3. Can I get high now?

The ability to ‘check out’ with pot, delivers relief from the normal day to day pressures of life, as well as the obsession to use.
The user requires more to give the same result, as the body changes the potency in which it metabolizes the drug. It takes more to produce the required result.
Even in the face of consequences, the user cannot stop smoking. Promises will be made, then not followed through on. Short and long-term memory may be affected. Problems with work and other commitments are often influenced negatively.
The brutal cycle of addiction continues in a circular fashion – it causes problems which the drug relieves the pain from…and so on, and so on, and so on.
Life becomes more and more unmanageable. The things lost become more important & valuable.


The cycle of addiction can be broken – and it begins with getting the addicted individual in to treatment. The recovery process will begin for the entire intervention network.


Change begins. Call us now for help – our certified treatment specialists are available 24/7 – (800) 763-1597.

CRACK
Crack cocaine is a potent type of powdered cocaine which is cooked into a more concentrated form. Crack cocaine is smoked – most often through a glass pipe or sometimes an aluminum can.
Crack cocaine is known as one of the most addictive street drugs available (along with crystal meth) and those who use it are often unable to break the cycle of addiction. Crack produces a short-lasting, though powerful high.
Crack’s high is often replaced by serious side-effects including terrible mood-swings, violence, anxiety and other “out-of-character” behavior. Crack addiction is coupled with incredibly strong cravings. The self will which is mustered to declare “I WON’T DO THIS AGAIN!” disappears once the incredible physical and psychological cravings begin. Crack addicts develop a strong mental and physical dependency on the drug and feel they are not ‘normal’ without it.
Long-term effects of cocaine use include depression, heart and respiratory problems (crack cough), delirium, ongoing restlessness, and dental problems. Over time crack cocaine can result in heart and respiratory problems, heart attacks, and ultimately, death.
Addicts develop a physical and psychological dependence upon the drug and feel that they are unable to function normally without it.
When cocaine and alcohol are used together – a third and complex chemical compound is produced in the body: cocaethylene. Researchers have found that the human liver combines coke & alcohol and manufactures cocaethylene that intensifies cocaine’s euphoric effects, while potentially increasing the risk of sudden death.


The cycle of addiction can be broken – and it begins with getting the addicted individual in to treatment. The recovery process will begin for the entire intervention network.


Change begins. Call us now for help – our certified treatment specialists are available 24/7 – (800) 763-1597.

ECSTASY aka: MDMA
(street names: X, XTC, Adam, hug, beans, lovemedrug)


Ecstasy is man-made club drug, that acts as both a stimulant and a hallucinogen. It is taken orally as a capsule or tablet. When the line is crossed from social drinking to alcohol abuse, short and long-term effects are varied and many.
Ecstasy is often cut with crystal meth and/or acid – producing a very addictive and highly toxic drug. The fun of use becomes abuse,; cravings begin.
The cycle of craving, use and then remorse, come to light in short order.
Short-term memory loss may occur. Confusion, blurred vision, acne-like-rash, severe depression, liver damage, aggression, paranoia, teeth clenching, anxiety, sleep problems, nausea & brain damage are but some of the most common side effects addicts experience while using ecstasy.
External problems run the gamut from legal problems to relationship trauma (and drama). Often, the ability to manage ones’ own life is disrupted. One gets “off track” while in the throws of addiction.
Over time, tolerance to the drug builds. It takes more to chase the previous ‘high’ and drug use increases. The things lost become more important and valuable.
Esctasy abuse effects are monumental and devastating as the pleasure-producing portion of the brain is disrupted and can cause permanent brain damage.


The cycle of addiction can be broken – and it begins with getting the addicted individual in to treatment. The recovery process will begin for the entire intervention network.


Change begins. Call us now for help – our certified treatment specialists are available 24/7 – (800) 763-1597.

CRYSTAL METH
(aka: Tina, T, Meth, Ice, Crystal, Speed, Chalk)
Considered the most addictive drug on the streets today by many, Crystal Meth brings housewives, surfers, gay folk, teachers, nurses and doctors together – as addicts. Crystal Meth is an equal opportunity addiction.


A stimulant or an upper, Crystal can be used in many ways including sniffing powder, taking pills, mixing powder in juice; crystal can also be smoked or injected.


Crystal’s initial effect is euphoria – an intense long-lasting high.


Those using Crystal describe feeling like a “Super Hero”, as though they are invincible and able to do more in less time. Crystal’s short & long-term effects are many.
Meth use is damaging to the body and the consequences related to cocaine will often lead to permanent damage, addiction & death.
While each person responds differently to cocaine use, many short and long-term effects occur.
Frequent short-term use effects include:

1. Decreased appetite
2. Change in sleep patterns
3. Increased energy
4. Dilated pupils
5. Unexplained, oftentimes dramatic, weight loss
6. Increased heart rate & increased blood pressure
7. Elevated temperature
8. Nose trouble – sniffing, runny nose and/or nose bleeds
9. Staph infections
10. “Meth Mouth” – rapid decay of mouth health

Many begin Meth to get a quick pick-me-up, or to drop twenty pounds, or sometimes, just to have fun with friends. While these results may seem promising in the beginning, those prone to addiction will find it difficult to stop using.
While using, one may go for days without eating and if this behavior is continued – can lead to addiction. In increased quantities, Crystal will intensify the high. At these times, erratic & violent behavior may occur.
As the abuse becomes habitual, the cycle of craving and use ushers in lying, cheating, stealing, absenteeism at work and denying the use of Crystal. Other long-term effects oftentimes include irritability, hallucinations, dramatic mood changes, interrupted sleep patterns and general restlessness.
Other physical effects run the gamut from “Meth Mouth” and wide-spread skin sores to depression. External problems run from legal problems to relationship trauma (and drama).
The things lost become more important and valuable.


The cycle of addiction can be broken – and it begins with getting the addicted individual in to treatment. The recovery process will begin for the entire intervention network.


Change begins. Call us now for help – our certified treatment specialists are available 24/7 – (800) 763-1597.

OXYCONTIN
Prescription drugs are often an unmentioned arena of addiction, though the patterns of loss & destruction wrought by Rx drugs are no less threatening than crack cocaine or heroin.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that more than nine million people in the US use prescription drugs for non-medical purposes.
OxyContin is an opiate derived prescription drug; easily purchased on the street in a variety of doses. OxiContin addiction has spiked in recent year. Approved by the FDA first in 1995, OxyContin has quickly become a drug of choice for “housewives and Hill Billy’s.”
Legitimately prescribed to those living with residual or chronic pain, OxyContin has been praised for it’s long lasting pain relieving benefits. Taken as prescribed, the does is time-released. Used by addicts, crushed then snorted, swallowed or injected, OxyContin addiction is ever bit as problematic as Heroin.
Over time, more of the drug is needed to produce a similar effect, as the body builds tolerance to the drug.
Those addicted to OxyContin generally require a stringent medically supervised detox. OxyContin addiction is a brutal one – creeping up on the entire family as the addict’s affects friends, family, career, kids, finances and possibly involving law enforcement.
Many become addicted to OxyContin following a legitimate prescription following an accident or surgery. Addiction begins, and the cycle of taking the pills to answer the addiction follows. “I take the pill…I feel good!” we hear the addicted say. It’s this connection which leads to addiction.
Thus, the cycle of craving, use and then regret begin to become the new ‘normal’.
Life becomes more and more unmanageable. The things lost become more important & valuable.


The cycle of addiction can be broken – and it begins with getting the addicted individual in to treatment. The recovery process will begin for the entire intervention network.


Change begins. Call us now for help – our certified treatment specialists are available 24/7 – (800) 763-1597.

VICODIN
Prescription drugs are often an unmentioned area of addiction, though the patterns of loss & destruction wrought by Rx drugs are no less threatening than crack cocaine or heroin.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that more than nine million people in the US use prescription drugs for non-medical purposes.
Vicodin is commonly prescribed legitimately. Make no mistake – Vicodin is a mood-altering drug and chronic addiction is commonplace; either the result of a course of treatment during which addiction grows or not.
“I’m taking it for pain…”
“Dr. Lawrence said I could take six instead of four…”
Vicodin produces a mild sense of euphoria, relaxing the mind, body and spirit while relieving pain.
The addiction lasts longer than the prescription and several things occur – prescription shopping or illicit sales, all the while the addiction continues to tighten its hold on the addict.
Vicodin affects the way the brain works – and finally the body hears the message that it cannot function without the drug. Dependency on the drug becomes addiction, and severe withdrawal symptoms can and do occur when the drug level dissipate in the body.
Recovery from Vicodin addiction can and do occur. Long-lasting effects of Vicodin use include renal and liver damage, gastrointestinal complications, blood pressure problems and chronic constipation.
Many become addicted to this class of drugs following a legitimate prescription following an accident or surgery. Addiction begins, and the cycle of taking the pills to answer the addiction follows. “I take the pill…I feel good!” we hear the addicted say. It’s this connection which leads to addiction. Thus, the cycle of craving, use and then regret begin to become the new ‘normal’.
Life becomes more and more unmanageable. The things lost become more important & valuable.
For many who have become addicted to Vicodin, a medically supervised detox is imperative, as going “cold turkey” can be very dangerous.


The cycle of addiction can be broken – and it begins with getting the addicted individual in to treatment. The recovery process will begin for the entire intervention network.


Change begins. Call us now for help – our certified treatment specialists are available 24/7 – (800) 763-1597.

CLUB DRUGS
(including Ecstasy, Special K or Ketamine, Acid, MDMA, Rohypnol, GHB )


Club Drugs are man-made, that act in many ways and are most often used by teens and young adults who are part of the nightlife, rave or club scene. The intoxicating highs from these drugs are often used to deepen the rave or trance experience.
As with any drug leading to addiction the cycle of craving, use and then remorse, come to light in short order in many cases.
Over time, tolerance to the drug of choice builds. It takes more to chase the previous ‘high’ and drug use increases. The things lost become more important and valuable.
Club Drug abuse effects are monumental and devastating as the pleasure-producing portion of the brain is disrupted and studies have shown they can cause permanent brain damage.


The cycle of addiction can be broken – and it begins with getting the addicted individual in to treatment. The recovery process will begin for the entire intervention network.


Change begins. Call us now for help – our certified treatment specialists are available 24/7 – (800) 763-1597.

XANAX
(generically known as Alprazolam, in the benzodiazepine class)


Xanax is a short-acting drug in the benzo class of drugs, and is most often prescribed to treat anxiety disorders or in combination with other Rx drugs for the treatment of depression.
Xanax addiction usually begins with a prescription from a doctor, then before becoming a problem. The drug is a central nervous system depressant and its’ addiction begins when the user grows dependant beyond its’ initial prescribed dosage and scope. Xanax addiction can develop quickly or slowly over time, all the while literally slowing the brain down.
When the desire for the drug outpaces the realities of the prescription, “Doctor Shopping” begins. It’s not unusual for those struggling with Rx drug addiction to have five, or more doctors to write prescriptions.
The cycle of craving, use and then remorse, come to light in short order.
Short-term memory loss may occur. Confusion, blurred vision, acne-like-rash, severe depression, liver damage, aggression, paranoia, teeth clenching, anxiety, sleep problems, nausea & brain damage are but some of the most common side effects addicts experience while using ecstasy.
External problems run the gamut from legal problems to relationship trauma (and drama). Often, the ability to manage ones’ own life is disrupted. One gets “off track” while in the throws of addiction.
Over time, tolerance to the drug builds. It takes more to chase the previous ‘high’ and drug use increases. The things lost become more important and valuable.
Long-term Xanax addiction can lead to grave physical & mental illness.


The cycle of addiction can be broken – and it begins with getting the addicted individual in to treatment. The recovery process will begin for the entire intervention network.


Change begins. Call us now for help – our certified treatment specialists are available 24/7 – (800) 763-1597.

HYDROCODONE
Prescription drugs are often an unmentioned area of addiction, though the patterns of loss & destruction wrought by Rx drugs are no less threatening than crack cocaine or heroin.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that more than nine million people in the US use prescription drugs for non-medical purposes.
Hydrocodone (generic name: Vicodin) is commonly prescribed legitimately. Make no mistake – Hydrocodone is a mood-altering drug and chronic addiction is commonplace; either the result of a course of treatment during which addiction grows or not.
“I’m taking it for pain…”
“Dr. Lawrence said I could take six instead of four…”
Hydrocodone produces a mild sense of euphoria, relaxing the mind, body and spirit while relieving pain.
The addiction lasts longer than the prescription and several things occur – prescription shopping or illicit sales, all the while the addiction continues to tighten its hold on the addict.
Hydrocodone affects the way the brain works – and finally the body hears the message that it cannot function without the drug. Dependency on the drug becomes addiction, and severe withdrawal symptoms can and do occur when the drug level dissipate in the body.
Recovery from Hydrocodone addiction can and do occur. Long-lasting effects of Hydrocodone use include renal and liver damage, gastrointestinal complications, blood pressure problems and chronic constipation.
Many become addicted to this class of drugs following a legitimate prescription following an accident or surgery. Addiction begins, and the cycle of taking the pills to answer the addiction follows. “I take the pill…I feel good!” we hear the addicted say. It’s this connection that leads to addiction. Thus, the cycle of craving, use and then regret begin to become the new ‘normal’.
Life becomes more and more unmanageable. The things lost become more important & valuable.
For many who have become addicted to Hydrocodone, a medically supervised detox is imperative, as going “cold turkey” can be very dangerous.


The cycle of addiction can be broken – and it begins with getting the addicted individual in to treatment. The recovery process will begin for the entire intervention network.