The 12-step recovery model was initially developed and implemented by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) as a fellowship whose goal was to help one another overcome addiction to alcohol. Since its inception, the 12-step model has become universally known and is the most commonly recommended and used treatment modality for a wide array of addictions and compulsions.…
Opioid addiction is a chronic disease that affects millions of Americans from all walks of life. Opioids are a class of drugs that impact the central nervous system by blocking pain and creating a sense of euphoria. Unfortunately, they have the potential to become highly addictive, especially when improperly used. While most people are aware…
Mental health therapy is a crucial part of the treatment of substance abuse and addiction. There are five broad types of psychotherapy: psychoanalysis and psychodynamic therapies; integrative or holistic therapy; humanistic therapy; cognitive therapy; and behavioral therapy. Each of these approaches has its own goals, utilizes its different techniques, and has its benefits. Behavioral therapy…
The cannabis plant, from which marijuana is derived, is one of the oldest crops in the world. It is no wonder then that marijuana has a long history and is the most commonly used drug in the United States and around the globe. Proponents of marijuana have long lobbied for its legalization, and it has.…
If you have made the difficult decision to commit to a drug or alcohol detox program, the next step is to think about how to be best prepared. Especially if you are entering detox in Florida for the first time, you might not know what to expect. The admissions team at Harmony Hills will help…
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based talk therapy often used to treat substance abuse, addiction, and co-occurring mental health disorders. Evidence-based means that CBT is clinically proven to be effective. Many traditional therapies rely on the therapist-patient relationship to uncover past events that might impact current behavior. However, CBT focuses on how changing current patterns…
Benzodiazepines, commonly referred to as benzos, are in the prescription sedative class of drugs. They are primarily used for treating anxiety but have other uses as well. Benzos are some of the most frequently prescribed medications in the nation. Because of their mood- and mind-altering effects, benzos are commonly used recreationally and abused for non-medical…
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid intended to treat severe pain associated with severe injuries or chronic illnesses such as cancer. Like morphine, but up to 100 times more potent, fentanyl is a dangerous and highly addictive drug. Because of its potency, people can become addicted to fentanyl even when prescribed by a doctor. Using fentanyl…
Watching a friend or family member struggle with drug or alcohol addiction is very difficult and can negatively impact your well-being. You may experience feelings of anger, sadness, frustration, guilt, worry, and fear. In general, you will likely feel overwhelmed and confused about how you can help. At times you might feel like giving up…
Observed the last Monday of May, Memorial Day is a federal holiday to honor and mourn American military personnel who have died in the line of duty. Memorial Day is also widely observed as the unofficial start of summer, usually celebrated with picnics, barbecues, and parties serving up alcohol and possibly other substances. For those…