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Addictions: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Shopping Addiction
Provides a basic overview of shopping addiction.
Sex Addiction
Explores definitions and the controversy of the concept of sex addiction.
Symptoms of Addiction
Details symptoms experienced by addicts with dependencies and signs observed by concerned others.
painkiller addiction
How do people go from normal painkiller use to painkiller addiction? There are many factors, and some of the major ones are presented here.
Ten Sex Addiction Types
Dr Patrick Carnes identified ten types of addictive sexual behavior in his book, "Don't Call It Love." Here, the ways that sexually addictive behaviors undermine love and intimacy are explored.
What is an Addiction?
Clear, concise definition of addictions, including substance and behavioral addictions. Includes examples of addictive behaviors and defining characteristics of dependence.
Video Game Addiction
Provides an overview of the potential harms of excessive video game playing, including addiction.
Sexual Abuse
Details and reasons why people who were sexually abused as children have abusive relationships as adults.
Food Addiction
Provides an overview of research on the concept of food addiction.
Arousal
Glossary definition of the term arousal.
Are They "Real" Addictions?
Describes behavioral (nonsubstance) addictions. Provides links to articles on specific behavioral addictions.
Most Addictive Pain Killers
Ten of the most addictive painkillers on the market today. Steve
drugtestingatwork
Recent developments in medical technology have paved the way for drug testing, to find out whether someone has recently used a drug. But should drug testing of employees by their employers be allowed?
Controlled Drugs
Describes categorization schedule for drugs under the Controlled Drugs Act (CDA)
What Is Motivation?
Glossary definition of the term "motivation" in the context of addiction treatment.
Definition of Homeostasis
Glossary definition of homeostasis, as used in the context of addictions.
Addiction Treatment
Describes the addiction treatment process, including substance and behavioral addictions. Includes expectations and different formats of addiction treatment.
Standard Drinks
We talk about alcohol in terms of drinks, but how much alcohol is actually in a standard drink?
Therapeutic Relationship
Outlines the aspects of the therapeutic relationship in addictions treatment.
Safe Injection Sites
An overview of safe injection site, places where people can go to safely and privately inject drugs.
DSM sub dep criteria
DSM-IV-TR criteria for substance dependence
Tips for Healthy Intimacy
The key characteristics of a healthy intimate relationship after treatment for a sexual addiction.
Compulsive Gambling
Explores the concept of compulsive gambling as a behavioral addiction.
Confessions of Shopaholic
Details misconceptions about shopping addiction as it was portrayed in the movie "Confessions of a Shopaholic."
Denial Definition
Definition of the term "denial" as used in the addictions field.
druglaws
Describes the main laws around drug possession and trafficking.
Exercise Addiction
Describes the basic aspects of exercise addiction.
Cybersex
Describes the process of addiction to sexual activity based on the internet.
Stages of Change Model
Prochaska and DiClemente's Stages of Change model of addiction and behavior change.
Helping a loved one
Guidance on how to support a loved one with an addiction, including how to be supportive and how to care for yourself. Explains what to expect when you suggest a family member or friend has an addiction.
Cybersex User Types
Research shows that there are five different types of cybersex user, and not all of them have cybersex addiction or sexual problems.
Addiction Diagnosis
Describes the process of having a professional assessment and diagnosis of an addiction, including what to expect and how you will be treated.
What Is a Ritual?
Glossary definition of the term "ritual" as used in the context of addictions.
Maladaptive Definition
Definition of the term "maladaptive" as used in the addiction field
What Is Oniomania?
Glossary definition of oniomania
Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana is increasingly being recognized as a legitimate treatment for a variety of conditions.
Motivational Interviewing
Motivational Interviewing is often used as the basis for treatment of addictions. This article outlines the basic principles of Motivational Interviewing, so you know what to expect from this approach.
Casino Gambling
Casino gambling is promoted as a sophisticated form of entertainment, yet many become addicted. What is so appealing, and why do people get so hooked on casino gambling?
Physical and Emotional Pain
Emotional pain worsens the experience of physical pain, but what is meant by "emotional pain?" And how does it relate to physical pain?
Types of Gambler
Clarifies the differences between the most common types of frequent gambler.
12 Step Groups
Reviews the advantages and disadvantages of joining a 12 step program for support in overcoming an addiction or coping with the addiction of a loved one.
Parent Tips
Tips for preventing the development of addictive behaviors for the parents and caregivers of children with developmental disabilities.
What Is a Stereotype?
Glossary definition of the term "stereotype" as it relates to people with addictions.
Men BAC
In calculating how many drinks you can safely consume, it is helpful to know about your blood alcohol level (BAC). This can be estimated based on your weight and how quickly you drink. This article provides information for men.
Addictions and Compulsions
Explains the difference between an addiction and a compulsion.
Rights On Arrest
Describes basic rights you should know, whether or not you are acting against the law.
Precontemplation
Precontemplation is the first stage of Prochaska and DiClemente's stages of change model of addiction and behavior change.
Attribution
Glossary definition of attribution.
What Is Peer Pressure?
Peer pressure is a term used to describe the way that people of the same social group -- peers -- can influence on another, often in negative ways.
MI Myths
Addresses ten commonly held myths about the Motivational Interviewing approach to treating addictions.
Standard Drink
How much alcohol is in one American standard drink? This frequently asked question is answered in terms of common alcoholic beverages.
Lying and Addiction
Laws and social stigma create a situation where lying can become a way of life for people with addictions. Many want to be more truthful with others, but don't know how. Here are tips for people with addictions who want to become more truthful in their relationships.
USA Local Gambling Helplines
Alphabetical list of problem gambling helplines by US state.
Definition of Consequence
Glossary definition of the term consequence as used in the context of addictions.
Lying Loved One
People with addictions are notorious for telling lies. But why do they do it? And how can family members and others who care cope with frequent lying?
Persistent Definition
Definition of the term "persistent" as used in the addiction field.
Tolerance
Tolerance is the adaptation of the body to a drug, resulting in more being required for the same effect.
One Lapse
Many recovering alcoholics and drug users wonder if it is OK to have one drink or use one time after a period of abstinence. While one drink or use will disrupt your recovery, it can also be a useful learning experience.
Heavy Drinker or Alcoholic
Many people who drink a lot are concerned that they might be an alcoholic. But is it the same thing? And are there other issues that drinkers should be more concerned about?
Controlled Drinking
Often by the time you realize you need to cut down on your drinking, it's harder than you think to do so. But it is possible to get it under control.
What is Neurotherapy?
Glossary definition of neurotherapy, a collection of treatment techniques which can be used in the treatment of addictions and related conditions.
Demerol
Glossary definition of the prescription drug Demerol®
developmentaldisabilities
Ten years ago, the number of people with disabilities who developed alcohol and drug addictions was almost nil. Now they are considered a group at risk. This articles explores the many complex reasons for this concerning turn of events.
Blood Alcohol Concentration
Details of Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC).
National Gambling Helplines
List of national helplines providing support to people with gambling related problems.
Women BAC
In calculating how many drinks you can safely consume, it is helpful to know about your blood alcohol level (BAC). This can be estimated based on your weight and how quickly you drink. This article provides information for women.
Choosing Treatment
Details factors you need to consider when choosing a treatment program for addiction.
Domestic Violence & Addiction
There are several ways that domestic violence and substance use are connected.
Low Alcohol Drinks
Low alcohol beverages are widely available -- but are they a good idea?
What is Sex Work?
Glossary definition of the term sex work.
Finding Needle Exchanges
Needle exchange programs exist in many communities, so that injection drug users can access clean equipment, and dispose of used needles safely. But you don't usually see them in the high street, so where do you find these services?
Family Worry
What family members worry about when their close relative has an addiction.
Help For Family Members
Suggestions of ways that the family members of people with addictions can get the support that they need.
Cybersex Risks
Details some risks associated with involvement in cybersex.
Emotional Pain Management
Although drugs can sometimes numb emotional as well as physical pain, there are ways it can make the problem worse.
Neurofeedback
Introduction to the neurotherapy approach to treating addiction.
Why Can't I Just Quit?
Describes physical, emotional and mental processes involved in quitting and addictive behavior.
What Are Neurotransmitters?
Glossary definition of the term "neurotransmitters."
What is Stigma?
Glossary definition of "stigma" in relation to people with addictions.
Enabling Definition
Definition of the term "enabling" as used in the addictions field.
Pain Tips
Dealing with pain is a hassle of daily life for everyone, but for some, it takes over their lives. Seeking relief, many become addicted to the very pain medication that they hope will provide the solution. However, the situation is not hopeless, and there is a lot you can do to manage your pain more effectively without drugs.
Withdrawal
Withdrawal is an unpleasant state which occurs when someone who has been taking a drug regularly suddenly stops taking the drug.
Detox Programs
Review of major considerations when deciding whether a detox program for your addiction is right for you.
Contemplation
The contemplation stage of Prochaska and DiClemente's Transtheoretical Model.
Tips For Communication
When you are concerned about someone's addiction, it can be hard to know how best to talk about it. Should you confront them? Challenge them? Or is it wiser to agree with whatever they say? Find out more here.
What Is Dissociation
Glossary definition of the term "dissociation."
Preparation
The preparation stage of Prochaska and DiClemente's Stages of Change model of addiction and behavior change.
Video Game Parents Group
A psychoeducational therapy group for parents of video game addicted children in the Seattle area.
What Is Euphoria?
Glossary definition of euphoria.
Ambivalence
Glossary definition of ambivalence.
Definition of Binge
Definition of the term "binge" as used in the addiction field.
Online Betting
As people start to experience difficulties with controlling their online betting, and find that their losses are leading to financial problems, many wonder whether it is possible to continue to gamble, but to limit the amount they lose at online betting.
Maintenance
The maintenance stage of change in Prochaska and DiClemente's Stages of Change model of addiction and behavior change.
What Is a Chocoholic?
Glossary definition of the term chocoholic
What Is a Drug Court?
Provides details on the drug court approach of responding to drug-related crimes.
Substance Abuse Family
Five ways to support someone who is upset by alcohol or drug use in the family.
Kids Hotlines
List of important numbers and hotlines for kids to call when they need help.
Casino Self Exclusion
Definition of the term Casino Self Exclusion
Definition of the Munchies
Glossary definition of the term "the munchies"
Action
The action stage in Prochaska and DiClemente's transtheoretical model.
What Is Marinol?
Glossary definition of Marinol.
Breastfeeding Alcohol and Drug
Breastfeeding is highly recommended, but while breastfeeding alcohol and drugs may cause problems for your baby. How can you decide whether or not to breastfeed your baby if you drink or take drugs?
Confessions of a Shopaholic
Discusses how the movie "Confessions of a Shopaholic" protrays shopping addiction.
Craving
Glossary definition of craving.
Sugar Addiction in Kids
Looks at potential harms of sugar addiction in children.
Plan Ahead For Success
Provides an overview of preparations that are advisable before entering a residential treatment program for an addiction.
Help For Kids
Advice for kids whose parents have addictions. Describes reasons they might need to ask for help, how to get help, and what will happen afterwards.
Definition of Rebound Effect
Glossary definition of rebound effect, as used in the context of addictions.
What Are Brainwaves?
Glossary definition of the term brainwaves.
Canadian Gambling Helplines
Alphabetical list of problem gambling helpline by Canadian province.
Giving Teens Alcohol
Is it OK to get a case of beer for your teenage son and his friends? It sounds like fun, but are there reasons not to?
Gambling Test
Problem Gambling Screening Test to identify whether you have a problem with gambling. Reprinted with permission from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH).
Preventing Gaming Addiction
Provides parents and caregivers with tips on preventing video game addiction in their children.
How To Stay OK
Describes the importance of keeping good relationships alive if you have a parent with an addiction.
What is CES?
Glossary definition of Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation (CES).
What Is Empathy?
Glossary definition of the term "empathy" as it is used in the context of addictions.
Child Discipline
Ten tips for parents who want know what kinds of child discipline prevent addiction problems in their kids.
Kids video game group
A therapy group in Seattle, WA, for kids aged 10-15 years old with computer game addiction.
Developmental Disability
Definition of the term "developmental disability."
Parent Influence
Is parent influence on teenage alcohol and drug use possible?
Definition of Expectancy
Glossary definition of expectancy, as used in the context of addictions.
What Is Sexsomnia?
Glossary definition of sexsomnia.
Video Gamers
Describes the findings of recent research into video game addiction and who it affects.
Alcohol Accident Risks
There is a common belief that drinking alcohol with dinner is safe. But what is your risk of having an accident?
Residential Treatment
Review of major considerations when deciding whether a residential treatment program for your addiction is right for you.
Diagnosis Tips
The diagnostic process is stressful, but follow these tips and you are more likely to find out whether you actually have an addiction, and to get the help you need.
Inhalant Abuse
Research shows a lack of awareness of the dangers of inhalant abuse among kids. Parents can take steps to avoid the dangers of inhalant abuse.
Heavy Drinkers
I drink a lot, but I don't think I'm an alcoholic. Is it denial, or is my active social life OK?
Casino Online
Gamblers often wonder whether staying at home and visiting a casino online is safer than the real thing. Is this true?
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is a serious complication of heavy drinking or alcoholism, caused by malnutrition.
New Relationships
When and how can a recovering sex addict start a new relationship?
What Is a Metaphor?
Glossary definition of the term "metaphor" as it relates to addictions treatment.
Why They Are So Addictive
Why the new generation of painkillers are so addictive.
Addictions - Articles
An index of articles for the Addictions guide site.
Review Trust the Man
Review of the Movie "Trust the Man," starring David Duchovny as a married sex addict.
Parents Drink With Teens
When parents teenagers, and other adults wonder whether they are the best people to introduce young people to drinking and drug use, there are many factors to consider.
alcoholhealthmyth
Drinking a moderate amount of alcohol has been promoted as healthy. However, the evidence for the positive health effects of even small amounts of alcohol is patchy, while the overwhelming evidence for the negative health effects of alcohol is crystal clear.
Video Games Addiction Couples
Marriage under strain because of video games addiction? For those in Seattle, WA, this therapy group could be the answer.
What Is H1N1?
Glossary definition of H1N1.
Video Gamers Group
Group therapy is available in Seattle, WA, for people addicted to video games. Come along and get support re-entering the real world.
FASD
FASD is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. This is a pattern of birth defects caused by alcohol consumption by the mother, during the mother's pregnancy.
Addictions - GuideReviews
An index of GuideReviews for the Addictions guide site.
RTC
Heavy drinkers tend to get into the habit of drinking a lot on a regular basis. But most of them change at some point, with or without help. What makes them want to change?
Patient Empowerment
Addresses issues related to patient empowerment in the addictions field. Provides links to the patient empowerment site.
Abuse Definition
Definition of the term "abuse" as used in the addictions field.
What Is an EEG?
Glossary definition of the term EEG.
Definition of Feedforward
Glossary definition of feedforward, as used in the context of addictions.
NAS
NAS stands for Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, and affects newborn babies exposed to drugs in utero.
Going to Court
Preparations you should make before going to court.
safedrinking
Sometimes it is just plain unsafe to drink alcohol, but there are also times when caution should be exercised.
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