Have you been diagnosed with heroin addiction and an anxiety disorder? You are not alone. Your dual diagnosis is common, and you can cope. Let’s jump right into this topic with the first step to coping: Understanding why these two conditions co-exist. Anxiety Before Heroin Chronic anxiety has been … [Read more...] about Dual Diagnosis: Coping with Heroin Addiction & Anxiety Disorder
Dual Diagnosis: Recognizing an Anxiety Disorder & Heroin Abuse
According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), 20.5 million Americans age 12 or older had a substance use disorder in 2015. Of them, 591,000 involved heroin. It’s predicted that of those who use heroin, 23% will develop an opioid addiction. Sometimes, heroin abuse triggers or … [Read more...] about Dual Diagnosis: Recognizing an Anxiety Disorder & Heroin Abuse
Boating Bash: How to Have a Safe Independence Day Celebration on Lake Norman
If you want to relax on the water this Independence Day, then you’ll want to explore the beautiful waters of Lake Norman. Located just 20 miles from Charlotte, North Carolina, Lake Norman is filled with activities and community events that will make your holiday celebration the best you’ve ever … [Read more...] about Boating Bash: How to Have a Safe Independence Day Celebration on Lake Norman
Positive Self-Image & Substance Abuse Counseling: Do They Mix?
Do you know what self-image is? Here’s a hint; it’s not self-esteem. These two terms are regularly interchanged, but there’s a major different between self-image and self-esteem. As counselors who work with a diverse group of ever-changing people, we’ve seen firsthand how a positive self-image can … [Read more...] about Positive Self-Image & Substance Abuse Counseling: Do They Mix?
How Does Caffeine Interact with Alcohol?
You’ve probably heard of Red Bull and vodka. It’s one of those popular energy drink and alcohol combos at the pub and many mix it right at home. One of the major ingredients in energy drinks is caffeine, which is also found in other popular drinks, like rum and Coke. Have you ever wondered how … [Read more...] about How Does Caffeine Interact with Alcohol?
Low Self-Esteem & the Risk of Substance Abuse in Young Adults
It starts when a person is young. We’re talking about self-esteem. How one is raised can play a huge part in the difference between having positive or low self-esteem. And chronically low self-esteem can increase a person’s risk of substance abuse. What is Low Self-Esteem? Simply put, low … [Read more...] about Low Self-Esteem & the Risk of Substance Abuse in Young Adults
Is Depression a Choice or an Illness?
A person doesn’t wake up in the morning and say, “I think I’ll be depressed today.” It just doesn’t work like that. People who are depressed don’t ask to feel that way. In fact, when depression is left untreated, it can become fatal. There are many reasons for depression, but choice isn’t one of … [Read more...] about Is Depression a Choice or an Illness?