Addiction Resources

Facts about addiction

Nearly 22 million people in the United States are affected by drug and alcohol abuse. In fact, 1 in 7 people will experience addiction during their lifetime. Understanding the symptoms and risk factors for addiction is an important step in preventing substance use disorders and finding treatment.

• What are the signs of alcoholism?
• Recovery vs. sobriety: What's the difference?
• 10 facts about substance abuse and addiction
• Recognizing the signs and symptoms of substance use disorders
• What are the risk factors for substance abuse?
• What are the signs of substance abuse dependency?
• What experts are saying about functioning alcoholics
• Substance abuse vs. substance dependence: What’s the difference?

Coping with opioid addiction

Opioid drugs include prescription painkillers like Oxycodone, Vicodin, and Fentanyl. Illegal substances like heroin are also considered opioid drugs. Opioid substances are addictive because of how they interact with the brain and nervous system. They change brain chemistry which can lead to drug tolerance and dependence. While opioids are highly addictive, there are treatments available that make achieving recovery possible.

• Why are opioids addictive?
• What is opioid addiction treatment?
• FAQs: Prescription painkillers and opioid addiction
• Recovering from heroin addiction
• Treating opioid dependence: What is Suboxone?
• TTHI Counseling Center provides free treatment for opioid abuse
• Overcoming addiction: Treatment options for opioid dependence

Substance abuse in the family

If your loved one is struggling with addiction, having a healthy and positive support system can make a difference. It's important to be prepared with the tools and knowledge you need to start tough conversations. We know how difficult it can be when someone you love is affected by substance abuse, but you are not alone. We're here to help you find treatment and support your family needs.

• 5 ways to help a family member with addiction
• How to prevent drug and alcohol abuse
• How growing up with an alcoholic parent affects your life
• How to start a conversation about substance abuse in your family
• Talking to your children about a family history of substance abuse
• 3 ways substance abuse affects children
• The dangers of letting your children drink under your supervision
• 7 tips for talking to your college freshman about binge drinking

Understanding mental illness

People who are struggling with substance abuse and addiction are more likely to be diagnosed with a mental health condition. When this happens, it is called a co-occurring disorder. Because many of the behavioral side effects of alcohol and drug use are similar to symptoms of a mental health condition, receiving a diagnosis for a co-occurring disorder can take time. However, you should not wait for a diagnosis to seek treatment for addiction.

• What is a co-occurring disorder?
• 10 early warning signs of mental illness
• Is risky behavior a sign of mental illness?
• 7 myths about co-occurring disorders

Addiction help for veterans

The needs of veterans struggling with addiction are unique. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 1 in every 3 veterans seeking treatment for substance abuse also struggle with PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder. There is hope. PTSD and substance abuse can be treated at the same time. Options like medication assisted treatment (MAT) are especially effective in treating both addiction and mental health conditions.

• Why veterans struggle with substance abuse
• 3 most common mental health concerns for veterans
• Why veterans need help with substance abuse

Treatment for addiction

Regardless of how long you have been struggling with addiction, recovery is possible. Whether it is alcohol, opiates, or other substances, treatment is available. Effective addiction treatment addresses both the addiction and the underlying causes. This is why medication assisted treatment (MAT) is the preferred treatment method for treating addiction. Taking the first step towards overcoming addiction can be nerve-racking. We're here to help you understand your options and to support you, wherever you are in your journey.

• How alcohol addiction treatment works
• Inpatient vs. outpatient addiction treatment
• What to expect from an addiction treatment program
• What is Vivtrol treatment?
• Addiction treatment: What happens after detox?
• Overcoming addiction with medication assisted treatment
• Treating addiction safely: How to detox the right way
• How to pick the right counselor for you
• How Vivitrol can help you on your road to recovery
• How to get the most out of a DUI class
• Roadmap: Recovering from substance abuse