The intertwined issues of homelessness and addiction pose significant challenges not only for those directly affected but also for society as a whole. Both are complex and multifaceted, often feeding…
Life after addiction is a journey filled with challenges and opportunities. Rebuilding your life after addiction can feel daunting, but it also holds the promise of new beginnings and personal…
Two years ago, our organization identified a need to create additional housing for the women in our long-term discipleship program. As the program continued to thrive, the ladies of Pennsylvania…
The Naaman Center’s partnership and collaboration with the Delaware Regional Dream Center is an exciting opportunity to restore wholeness to a community in great need. The benefits of this partnership…
Addressing the struggles of homeless individuals with substance use disorders is crucial to understanding the multifaceted challenges they face daily. Homelessness, coupled with substance abuse, creates a complex web of…
Homelessness and substance use disorder are deeply intertwined issues that often exacerbate one another, creating a cycle that is challenging to break. The correlation between homelessness and SUD is complex…
What is Medicaid? Medicaid is a joint federal and state program designed to offer health coverage to eligible low-income individuals, families, pregnant women, children, elderly adults, and people with disabilities.…
Opioid addiction is a serious issue that’s affecting millions of people all around the world. In Pennsylvania alone, tens of thousands of people have fallen victim to this crisis. But,…
Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, has become a deadly public health concern in recent years due to its high abuse potential and potency. While fentanyl can be an effective pain…
Opioid addiction is a dangerous and deadly problem that can lead to long-term health problems, overdoses, and even death. One of the most challenging aspects of opioid addiction is opioid…
While the holiday season is meant to be a time for celebration and family, for individuals struggling with a substance use disorder the holiday season can be an overwhelming and…
Alcohol is often seen as a social lubricant and something to enjoy in moderation. However, it becomes a problem when it transitions from casual drinking to alcohol abuse. Alcohol abuse…
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely recognized form of talk therapy that focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT can treat a variety of mental health…
Heroin is a highly addictive illegal drug that can have severe consequences on the body, mind, and social life of its users. It’s a derivative of opium, a naturally occurring…
Addiction can take a toll on individuals and entire families. It destroys the health and well-being of everyone involved. Addiction affects not only the person struggling with it, but the…
Addiction is a serious illness that requires professional help. If you’re struggling with substance abuse, you need to seek help as soon as possible. But with so many rehab programs…
Alcohol addiction is a serious problem that affects many people across Pennsylvania and the country. It can be easy to develop alcohol addiction without realizing it, which makes it difficult…
Smoking cigarettes is a harmful addiction that can have a significant impact on a person’s health. Nicotine, the addictive substance in cigarettes, can lead to long-term health complications. Quitting smoking…
Heroin, an opiate derived from the opium poppy, is still widely abused in the U.S., with about one million people self-reporting taking heroin in the past year and an estimated…
Opiates are widely used for pain management and relief. However, with the high risk of addiction that comes along with usage, it’s important to understand the impact that these drugs…
It’s very difficult for people to recognize the signs opioid addiction or opioid dependence in themselves. Part of addiction means that the brain maintains its denial in order to continue…
Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant that drastically affects one’s physical and mental health. The effects of meth on the brain not only physically damage an individual’s brain but also…
Substance use and mental health issues go hand in hand. In fact, between 40 and 60% of Americans who suffer from addiction have a co-occurring mental health diagnosis. Experts agree…
Fentanyl and cocaine are two very different drugs, though both are Schedule II controlled substances. Law enforcement agencies in several states have reported that cocaine is being laced with fentanyl…
Methamphetamine, otherwise known as meth, is one of the most dangerous drugs on the street market. It’s accessible and relatively cheap, largely because it’s so easily synthesized out of common…
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) was originally developed as an offshoot of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for the purpose of addressing and treating borderline personality disorder. Over time, clinicians and researchers began…
Nicotine is considered one of the most addictive drugs there is, and almost a quarter of a million people suffer from a cigarette addiction or dependence on nicotine that is…
Alcohol abuse in teens is on the rise as more and more adolescents experiment with drinking. One in four teens will engage in underage drinking, and about half of those…
Life skills are a vital part of addiction treatment because they enable you to adapt to a drug-free lifestyle without any issues. Substance use disorders can ruin different areas of…
Nearly three-quarters of drug rehab centers in the United States have a faith-based component. For those seeking recovery from a substance use disorder, faith-based addiction rehab has numerous unique factors…
DBT for substance abuse is considered a highly effective, evidence-based treatment for people with substance use disorders (SUDs) as well as those with poly-substance addictions and/or co-occurring mental health and…
It seems that as long as drugs and alcohol are available to provide the psychoactive effects people seek, a certain number of people will suffer addiction. However, no one sets…
For many teens who struggle with a substance use disorder (SUD), deciding to enroll in a drug rehab program can be challenging. First, it is often difficult for people of…
Whether used medically or abused, psychoactive drugs work because they interact within the brain to produce certain effects. A psychiatrist might prescribe an anti-depressant to help a patient feel better.…
Nicotine is second only to alcohol in terms of the number of people who are addicted to it. About 24 million people over the age of 12 in the U.S.…
Approximately three-quarters of all US drug rehab centers have a faith-based addiction treatment program. The efficacy of this kind of treatment has long been established. But is it only for…
Percocet is a narcotic analgesic that doctors commonly prescribe to treat acute pain and moderate to severe chronic pain. This medication is a combination of oxycodone, which is a derivative…
May is National Mental Health Month, a month designated for educating and raising awareness about mental health, research, and treatments. There remain many misconceptions among the general public about mental…
The United States saw the steepest spike in drug overdose deaths to date during the pandemic. Meth overdoses have increased at a rate even higher than some other highly addictive,…
The human brain has its own special opioid receptors that are there to attach to the body’s naturally occurring opioid-like substances. These natural opioids are pumped out by the brain…
Phencyclidine or PCP, known commonly by its street name angel dust, is a Schedule II drug. This designation indicates a high risk for abuse, dependence, and addiction. More than six…
Children are born into an unfamiliar world. Their parents hope they feel safe and loved, and will always have access to comfort and protection when needed. But no matter how…
Fentanyl is one of the most powerful synthetic opioids in existence. Originally manufactured for use as a painkiller, fentanyl quickly made its way into the street market, increasing the risk…
First initiated in 1999, National Alcohol Screening Day (NASD) is always recognized during the first full week of April. The goal of NASD is to raise public awareness that alcohol…
Let’s state the obvious: driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal. There can be legal consequences for impaired driving even when a drug…
Cigarettes are available in grocery stores, gas stations, and bodegas all across the US and yet nicotine is one of the most addictive substances on the planet. It’s as addictive…
Alcohol abuse affects millions of Americans a year, not just those who suffer from addiction. Traffic accidents caused by driving under the influence are one of the most significant preventable…
The numbers of drug overdose deaths go up every year. There are countless organizations and programs, both government and private, devoted to stemming the tide of addiction, and though some…
Opioid addiction is a crisis for those with opioid use disorder (OUD) and their families. In the United States, the opioid epidemic is a crisis because of the terrible toll…
Since people first discovered the euphoric effects of opium, derived from a species of poppy, opiates have been used both medicinally and recreationally. From opium comes morphine, codeine, and heroin.…
How do you decide what kind of addiction treatment is best for you? Practical considerations such as cost, insurance coverage, and location are key. However, the choice between inpatient and…
Phencyclidine, or PCP as it is commonly known, has been around since the 1950s. Originally formulated as an IV anesthetic, the agitating and hallucinogenic effects led to medical professionals discontinuing…
Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and deliberate self-harm (DSH) are unfortunately common mental health diagnoses among teens in the US and abroad. It’s estimated that more than 15% of teens will self-harm…
Can you die from heroin withdrawal? The short answer is yes, you can, but you don’t have to. In rehab, you can live through it and start recovery in a…
Methamphetamines are part of a highly addictive class of central nervous system stimulants. Known colloquially as meth, this drug can mask, mute, or trigger mental health symptoms. Whether someone uses…
Many drugs now sold illegally for recreational use were originally used for other purposes. From religious rites to medical applications, substances derived from the coca plant have been used by…
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is considered extremely effective in the treatment of substance use disorders (SUDs), including in dual diagnosis treatment, when a mental health disorder co-occurs with addiction. This…
Alcohol has been in use by societies as far back as the dawn of civilization. Fermented plant matter for medicine, religious rituals, nutrition, and enjoyment has been around for 9,000…
Faith-centered addiction treatment combines spiritual practice with evidence-based treatment. Faith-based practices can help you use your commitment to religion and spirituality to support your recovery. If you have a background…
The opioid crisis reached critical proportions in the 1990s with the extensive distribution of Oxy by physicians misled by false claims that it was non-addictive. The prevalence of synthetic opioids…
If you have teenagers in the house, you want to do what you can to keep them safe while still giving them the freedom they need to explore their world.…
Cocaine, in either its powdered form or as crack, is abused by more than five million teens and adults annually in the US. The leaves of the coca plant, from…
Close to a million teens abuse opioids every year. However, not all of them become addicted. Opioids are highly addictive, and teens are vulnerable to addiction because the parts of…
Among younger Americans, heroin abuse has doubled in the last decade. The term “opioid crisis” barely conveys the seriousness of the emergency. Heroin addiction endangers more than 600,000 Americans, a…
The fears and worries of children with anxiety often focus on things outside themselves, like the dark, wild animals, monsters, or scary things happening to the people they love. During…
Addiction to heroin, or any controlled substance, wreaks havoc within the life of the person abusing drugs and the lives of their loved ones. Unfortunately, one of the primary casualties…
What are bath salts? The synthetic form of cathinone, which in its natural form is derived from the khat (Catha) plant native to southern Africa, is known colloquially by the…
Sober companions are called recovery companions, sober friends, or sober accountability partners. These are people who have specialized training to help people coming out of residential rehab or shifting from…
As a new year dawns, feelings of possibility and hope abound. People often view a new year as a new chapter—an opportunity to rewrite the parts of the story that…
Humans and animals instinctively protect themselves from harm because survival is hardwired into the DNA of all sentient beings. But psychological harm or illness can interfere with what one might…
What is an opioid? Opioid is a term that is used to refer to opiates, which are drugs derived from the opium poppy, and opioids, synthetic drugs that emulate opiates…
Hydrocodone vs. oxycodone, or, to use their commercial brand names, Vicodin vs. Percocet, is in some ways a scientific hair-splitting if you consider how highly addictive both of these semi-synthetic…
Since the first behavioral therapies were developed early in the last century, psychologists have understood that negative, unhealthy, or destructive behaviors can be changed by shifting the thoughts, beliefs, and…
Cocaine addiction is still a significant cause for concern in the United States. Many people think of the cocaine epidemic as peaking in the 1970s and 80s and the crack…
The opioid crisis is alive and well. Whether prescription painkillers, heroin, fentanyl, or other opioids, these drugs are dangerous and cost lives. Fentanyl is one of the most potent opioids.…
Crystal meth is a purified form of the stimulant methamphetamine. The dangers of crystal meth are largely related to how easy it is to manufacture, combined with its extremely addictive…
Cocaine — or at least the coca leaves from which this drug is derived — has been in use since 3,000 BCE in Central and South America when the stimulant…
Self-harm, also known as non-suicidal self-injury, or NSSI, is a compulsive behavior usually in response to depression, anxiety, and/or extreme stress. Teens are the most common sufferers of this mental…
There are moments in life that we don’t really notice when they happen. For example, when drinking stops being an occasional indulgence and becomes a problem. It’s often not until…
In the US, heroin was originally used in pain relief, along with morphine which is, like heroin, also derived from the opium poppy. However, heroin became illegal in 1924 when…
It’s important to understand the difference between methamphetamine and crystal meth. Methamphetamine is a Schedule II synthetic drug. On the other hand, crystal meth is a highly purified form of…
Teenagers aren’t of legal age to drink alcohol. Unfortunately, consuming alcohol is portrayed in the media as being cool, fun, and even thrilling. Teens believe alcohol will make them more…
About seven out of 10 people will experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetimes. No one is unaffected by trauma and some experience severe emotional and psychological fallout.…
Addiction does not always fit into neat categories. In fact, most people who suffer from a substance use disorder regularly take more than one substance. Polysubstance abuse refers to the…
Imagine a place where you could go to heal — a place that embodied everything you believe deeply about life, God, and spirit, and that reminded you in every moment…
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid, meaning it is created in a laboratory. Like so many pharmaceutical drugs, fentanyl was originally intended exclusively for medical use. Unsurprisingly, this highly addictive opioid…
Depression affects millions of Americans every year – children, adolescents, and adults at all stages of life. The disease of depression can wreak havoc in the lives of sufferers and…
A poison is defined as any substance that can enter your body and is harmful to it. Toxins can be swallowed, inhaled, absorbed, or injected. Poisoning always results in some…
Addiction is a disease that affects over 20 million Americans each year. People can be vulnerable to addiction either because of genetic propensity, social pressures, mental health challenges, or a…
There are countless addictive substances out there. If someone you know is suffering from drug abuse and addiction, there are resources available. One potentially serious drug on which someone can…
Fentanyl was first created by scientists in a medical lab for use in pain relief. In the approximately seven decades since, fentanyl has played a major role in the opioid…
When addiction and mental health disorders co-exist, they are called co-occurring disorders. These overlapping diagnoses make treatment all the more important and also challenging. But in a dual diagnosis treatment…
Prescription painkillers have played a major role in the opioid epidemic since the introduction of oxycodone, or Oxy, in the 1990s as an allegedly safe and non-addictive pain-reliever. In time,…
There is no addiction recovery without the very first step: withdrawal. When you stop drinking or using drugs, your body has to adjust. This process of withdrawal is challenging because…
Cocaine is a stimulant drug derived from the coca plant. First synthesized over 100 years ago and used in common products like over-the-counter remedies and even Coca-Cola, cocaine soon became…
Heroin abuse and addiction still affect hundreds of thousands of Americans annually. Opium, derived from the opium poppy flower, had been used as a recreational drug for thousands of years,…
There are several dangers of opiates, particularly their highly addictive nature. In the 90s, they were marketed as non-addictive but are now one the leading causes of overdose cases in…
The use of benzos can be highly pleasurable at first. However, benzo addiction inevitably will negatively impact health, career, and relationships. Read on to learn more about the signs of…
What does a typical cocaine addiction treatment center offer its clients? Because cocaine is considered a highly addictive substance, and its misuse usually results in severe addiction, the ideal treatment…
Meth addiction is one of the hardest substance use disorders to overcome, which is why meth addiction treatment centers often offer a comprehensive range of treatments. These treatments include everything…
According to the Child Welfare Information Gateway, 12% of American children live with at least one parent with a substance use disorder. Addiction can affect every family member, making their…
Residential addiction treatment is a proven avenue for those who seek recovery from a substance use disorder. The intensity and focus of an inpatient rehab allow for immersion in therapies…
Heroin has been around for a long time. Long before the opioid crisis sparked by a flood of synthetic opioids onto the legal pharmaceutical and street markets, heroin had been…
Opioids are synthetic drugs produced originally in the medical labs of pharmaceutical companies. Opioids have chemical profiles like opiates and narcotics derived from poppies like opium, morphine, and heroin. The…
Addiction does not discriminate. Who you are, where you come from, your gender, religion, education level, and your financial or professional status cannot influence whether or not you will become…
In the past, people of all ages used cocaine because they believed it was safe for unregulated consumption. Cocaine, derived from the coca plant, could be found in over-the-counter medications,…
Methamphetamine is a stimulant drug that shares characteristics with amphetamines. However, because more of the drug reaches the brain with meth than other amphetamines, it is more powerful and far…
A short-term clinical treatment program for addiction is intense, time-limited, and a great starting point for your recovery journey. The most common is a 30-day treatment program though a short-term…
One of the most effective rehab options for substance use disorders is a short-term 30-day clinical program. This option is an intensive inpatient program designed to create a strong foundation…
Faith-based treatment for addiction is an effective treatment for the devout, those seeking to return to the faith of their youth, and those seeking a spiritual path for the first…
The power of faith-based addiction treatment combines spiritual practices and evidence-based therapies. There seems little dispute about the efficacy of religious addiction treatment for those who are part of a…
In some arenas, there is a clear distinction between residential addiction treatment and inpatient addiction treatment. However, people use the two terms interchangeably in many rehab centers around the country.…
Addiction recovery has various different but equally meaningful stages. If you have a substance use disorder, you cannot enter the realm of rehab without starting the journey by making your…
What happens when someone with a substance use disorder is interested in addiction rehab and needs a higher level of care than a regular outpatient program? One option is to…
When you are ready to start recovering from a substance use disorder, you face numerous options. You can access addiction treatment as an inpatient or outpatient. A program that combines…
When you are suffering from a mental health or substance use disorder – or both – and have decided to seek health and recovery, you may want to know what…
Dr. Aaron T. Beck developed cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) at the University of Pennsylvania in the 1960s. He based his work on studies done by psychologist Albert Ellis in the 1950s.…
One of the most effective therapies for treating a substance use disorder is dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). This behavioral therapy was developed in the 1980s and inspired by cognitive-behavioral therapy…
Thousands of Americans struggle with addiction every day. Each has a personal story to tell about their substance use and how it has affected their lives, careers, relationships, and financial…
There are numerous styles and philosophies used by addiction rehab facilities across the United States. One of the most common decisions is whether to attend a faith-based vs. standard addiction…
Drug addiction statistics ebb and flow, but overall, the numbers continue to rise, and over 20 million Americans are currently in the grip of a substance use disorder. Thanks to…
Over 20 million Americans over the age of 12 suffer from a substance use disorder. Only a few of them receive professional addiction treatment. There are many reasons for that,…
The numerous ways to engage in addiction rehab can be confusing at first. There are residential, outpatient, and intensive outpatient programs. In an outpatient program, you live at home and…
There are receptors in the brain that interact with the body’s endogenous opioids. These are naturally produced and help your body control pain and balance moods. Some people turn to…
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is one of the most effective treatments in addiction rehab. An off-shoot of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), DBT was originally developed to treat people with borderline personality…
Fear of withdrawal makes many people with an opioid use disorder hesitate to enter rehab for opioid addiction. Removing all traces of a powerful drug from the body is no…
Spring break. Almost by definition, this post-winter time off is an opportunity to let loose and celebrate. Many usually think of college kids convening on Florida beach towns or Colorado…
Meth addiction touches the lives of over two million Americans every year. This drug, easily manufactured and sold illegally, is one of the most addictive and damaging in existence. A…
Methamphetamine chemically alters the brain, which can affect the way someone thinks and feels. The extreme toll that meth takes on someone that’s addicted to it makes it one of…
Heroin addiction is incredibly adverse and dangerous for everyone, but it’s especially harmful to teenagers. The dangers of teen heroin addiction include physical health problems and behavioral and psychological issues…
Did you know that according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), unchecked alcohol consumption contributes to almost 90,000 deaths in the U.S. each year? More than 4,000…
How do professionals decide if a patient should consider getting admitted into an alcohol addiction treatment program? An alcohol screening test helps determine if someone is struggling with an alcohol…
Even if you or a loved one isn’t struggling with addiction, you may have heard about cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This is a form of therapeutic care that’s used in the…
Overcoming addiction requires eliminating not only the physical dependence on the addictive substance but also addressing behavioral and psychological issues that have developed along with the substance use disorder. Simply…
When it’s time to enroll in addiction treatment, what next? The hardest part is taking that step to accept that you need help. But the next step – finding an…
In treating mental and substance use disorders, two forms of behavioral therapy have had great prominence for over 50 years. Cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy share a great deal,…
National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week in 2022 is from March 21 to March 27. This time is set aside to recognize the critical nature of drug and alcohol use…
If your teenager is misusing drugs or alcohol, you may not have realized it until things have already gone pretty far. Teens can be secretive. Plus, their peers have great…
Alcohol addiction isn’t something that appears suddenly. Signs of alcohol addiction often sneak up on a person. There are subtle signs that worsen over time, and these are the signs…
People seeking treatment for mental health or addiction issues often have a co-occurring depression disorder. Depression and anxiety are the two most common mental health disorders to accompany addictions. In…
Anxiety is something everyone experiences at least once in their life. It is the mind’s natural response to a situation that is stressful. Most people, however, find the anxiety disappearing…
Many components make up successful drug and alcohol treatment programs. For many people, family therapy is a part of that process. This treatment is when you work closely with your…
Because it is legal and so common in our culture, alcohol poses a unique risk for both young people and adults. Alcohol abuse can come in many forms such as…
The most commonly abused prescription medications fall into three categories: depressants, opioids, and stimulants. Whether it’s a barbiturate prescribed for sleep or anxiety, an opioid used in pain management, or…
Cocaine’s stimulant qualities are what appeal to those who use it. Before anyone realized how addictive and dangerous the drug could be, it was in over-the-counter medications and even, briefly,…
Our short-term addiction treatment model has long been a standard approach to the start of recovery. There are numerous other options nowadays. However, a short-term clinical program remains an effective…
People first noticed the stimulant properties of cocaine in the mid-1800s, when the drug expanded its reach out of hospitals and into the hands of recreational users. Cocaine abuse hit…
More than two million people sign up for addiction treatment every year. Sadly, that is only about one-tenth of the people who need it. As the incidence of substance use…
Many people seeking help for an alcohol use disorder often ask why they can’t undergo the process without attending an alcohol detox center. This option may be possible for a…
If you’re worried about the signs of alcohol abuse and think you might be experiencing them, it’s time to reach out and get some help so you can live a…
Stepping away from your family and friends for an extended period of time for residential treatment seems like it would be so hard. It is a challenge, but the residential…
Programs like AA and NA offer a 12-step, faith-based treatment. This model of addiction recovery has been around for longer than most other programs. Faith-centered treatment is also one of…
Think you might be suffering from seasonal depression? Seasonal depression, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), strikes millions of people around the globe. Typically, it begins as the long, colorful days…
When you need help to break your heroin addiction, you can come to us at Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge. We know it’s not easy to admit to a problem…
Many teens cannot fully understand the consequences of drinking. Not because they aren’t smart, but because their brains are still developing, including the capacity for self-reflection and awareness, decision-making, and…
Residential addiction treatment is a tried-and-true option for thousands of people in the United States who want to cut ties with their addiction. This treatment is available for a variety…
Detox is the first step in heroin addiction recovery. Your journey to sobriety cannot begin while there are any remnants of the opiate in your system. Because there is no…
The dangers of binge drinking are significant and can include blackouts, reckless behaviors, overspending, liver damage, and other mental and physical health problems. Plus, they can sometimes put you in…
Teen alcohol use is a significant problem in the United States. Nearly one-third of teens throughout the country have taken their first drink before the age of 15. More than…
Faith plays a huge role in addiction recovery. Even if you are not a religious person, leaning on God to help you recover is vital. Choosing a faith-based facility for…
Opioid detox is one of the most critical components of healing when you have struggled with addiction to prescription or illicit opioids. The withdrawal symptoms can be fairly uncomfortable, making…
Heroin addiction is one of the most severe forms of addiction. Because this substance is highly addictive, withdrawal from it can be intense. More so, many people can become addicted…
The start of a new year is always a good time to begin working on your life goals, and a commitment to kicking an addiction is one of the best goals you…
Do you or someone you love struggle with alcohol addiction? Alcohol use disorder is different from other forms of addiction because it rarely feels like a disease. There’s no need…
Prescription medications exist to help mitigate symptoms, provide relief, and allow people to heal. Physicians control them because many have side effects. Doctors must monitor their use, and most people…
Only about one out of every ten people who need addiction treatment receive it. That accounts for millions of Americans every year who do not access needed care. If you…
For many years, short-term clinical programs for addiction rehab have been the standard. There are numerous other rehab options, but short-term treatment centers still offer many people a solid start…
There is no demographic in the United States that is protected from teen drug abuse. Addiction rates among the young are growing faster than in older groups. Furthermore, of the…
Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder, affects millions of adults in the United States. Though we tend to lump people addicted to alcohol into a stereotype, there is no typical alcoholic.…
As the holiday season is upon us, how do people in recovery navigate the potential roadblocks and pitfalls that threaten their sobriety? Perhaps you have recently been discharged from alcohol…
Seeking heroin treatment for addiction is a lifesaving decision and an essential first step in recovery. Although heroin use is still on the rise in the United States, only about…
The risk of addiction is there as soon as someone experiments with heroin. Because of how this opiate operates in the brain, the progression from use to tolerance to dependence…
People who use drugs and alcohol often do so to cope with emotional pain and psychological turmoil. Unable to process in any other way, they turn to substances to numb…
Social anxiety disorder affects nearly 10% of American youth and about 7% of adults. Education regarding the links between social anxiety and drug abuse can help prevent addiction before it…
Oxycontin, generically known as oxycodone, was approved by the FDA for medical use in 1995. The drug manufacturers’ assurances that it was not particularly addictive meant physicians prescribed it readily…
Once you decide that you need addiction treatment, you are already on your way to recovery. The following steps of determining what kind of treatment you need and where can…
For 60 years, Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge (PAATC) has been providing evidence-based care to teens 18 and up and adults who struggle with addiction. Serving communities throughout Pennsylvania, several…
Heroin addiction continues to be a challenge in the United States, with upwards of half a million people affected each year. Heroin addiction help is available in professional rehab centers…
Millions of Americans report having used cocaine in their lifetimes. While the number of people addicted to either cocaine or crack, a smokable form of cocaine, has gone down slightly…
Someone who seeks serious pain management or wants to get high often turns to an opioid. These substances may include heroin, prescription pain medication, or morphine. Opioids impact the brain,…
Street-level crystal meth is one of the most devastating illegal drugs available on the black market. It takes a tremendous toll on both body and mind. Though some methamphetamines are…
Heading into a residential addiction treatment program is a significant step. If you or someone you care about is about to take this step, congratulations are in order. Of the…
There is one thing that everyone in addiction recovery has in common. They all went through withdrawal. Whatever path someone takes en route to sobriety, whether it’s a 12-step program,…
Parents never want to learn that their child is using drugs. That desire to not know a painful truth is often powerful enough that we overlook certain red flags. It…
The power and effectiveness of prayer in addiction recovery are being reaffirmed across the country in numerous recovery settings. In fact, almost three-quarters of rehab options in the US include…
Although a drug habit begins due to behaviors triggered by life experience, addiction is not a habit. It is an illness of the brain that is chronic and incurable. However,…
People who suffer from substance misuse, dependence, and addiction fall on an addiction severity continuum. Where someone falls on that continuum will not change the fact that they will need…
Substance abuse treatment has a checkered history. Just a few hundred years ago, the reigning opinion about those caught in an addiction cycle was rooted in judgment, as people believed…
While most experts consider addiction to be a mental health condition, it involves the entire body as well as mind and spirit. Effective addiction treatment must involve the whole person…
Can opiate addiction treatment centers help fight the opioid epidemic? Yes, they do, every day. As in any battle for what is right, the journey to recovery must be one…
The term “opioid epidemic” refers to the ever-increasing incidence of opiate and opioid addiction that spiked dramatically in the early 1990s with the FDA’s approval of oxycodone as a prescription…
There are distinct benefits of inpatient rehab programs. However, this kind of addiction treatment is often the best way to start a journey of recovery. Protecting your sobriety at the…
A recent estimate tells us that 700,000 Americans are suffering from heroin addiction. If you abuse this potent opiate and struggle to find the path forward, please don’t become a…
Once you have developed alcohol dependence, quitting can be difficult and, in some cases, even dangerous. When someone struggling with alcohol addiction attempts to stop drinking, they may experience a…
Two of the most significant barriers that keep people from seeking help for their addiction are feeling alone and overwhelmed. There is no need for you to feel either. You…
Teen addiction treatment programs are essential resources if your child is struggling with a substance use disorder. However, what if you are not sure? As a parent, your mind rebels…
What life skills do you need to maintain sobriety after rehab? Re-entry can feel scary after inpatient or outpatient addiction treatment. There are indeed things you can do, thinking you…
As a society, we wholly depend on our youth to carry us forward. The saying, “The children are our future,” is not a cliché. It is the literal truth. At…
The links between mental health disorders and addiction are well documented. Nearly 40% of people with a substance use disorder have a co-occurring mental health diagnosis. The most effective way…
Cocaine has been around for over 150 years, and abuse rates to this highly addictive drug spiked in the 1980s. Today, cocaine addiction still affects over 5 million Americans. Between…
It will be no surprise that the majority of the most common substances teens abuse are the ones that are readily available to them. Teens may turn to substances to…
The sad truth is, there is no socio-economic, regional, religious, gender, or ethnic group in the United States that is immune to teen drug abuse. According to some of the…
It isn’t always easy to know when someone has a drinking problem. When it’s someone close to you, it can be even harder. If you have seen a gradual change…
For parents who are concerned about their child’s substance use, the world can seem upside down. Knowing the statistics doesn’t help. Even when you learn that more than a quarter…
Recent data about addiction in the United States is concerning. More than ten million people annually abuse opioids or opiates of some kind. However, only about 10% of the people…
Finding an adolescent rehab center means finding somewhere that hires professionals who understand teens, are trained to work with this age group. They should also work closely with families during…
We all know that many teenagers skirt the alcohol laws and find a way to acquire liquor and drink. Many of them can find it in their parent’s liquor cabinet.…
When someone with a substance use disorder leaves rehab, such as an inpatient addiction treatment program, what next? In rehab, you have withdrawn from the physical addiction and begun the…
Alcohol addiction occurs in every part of the globe. Over 100 million people worldwide suffer from this chronic disease, and of those over 18 in the U.S., 15+ million people…
Detox is the body’s process of ridding itself of the toxins that have built up due to addiction to drugs or alcohol. Detoxing triggers withdrawal symptoms in those with substance…
Heroin and other opiates have been around for a long time. Still, it was with the introduction of Oxycontin and other synthetic opioids in the late 1990s when the opioid…
Cocaine has been around since the mid-19th century when it was first discovered to have stimulant properties. Cocaine comes from the coca plant. Experts initially perceived its use as harmless…
When addiction strikes during adolescence, the risks of severe or long-term health consequences increase. Many teens in the United States self-report binge drinking and drug use. Furthermore, most adolescents with…
Our teen dual diagnosis treatment program in Pennsylvania addresses addiction in teens when it co-occurs with mental health conditions. This coordinated approach to addiction treatment for young people who also…
Are you struggling with your drug use and starting to think you’d like to stop? The safest and most effective way to address your substance abuse is to seek professional…
The teen years are unique among the life stages in that more changes occur, physically, mentally, emotionally, during these few years than at any other time. The turbulence that such…
Teenagers in the United States have access to more addictive substances than at any other time in history. There are new forms of stimulants and synthetic opioids being devised all…
There are so many addiction treatment programs to choose from nowadays; it can be a lot to take in. For many, a 30-day treatment program remains the standard and can…
If your teen struggles with substance abuse or addiction, the problem may have created numerous repercussions for the whole family. It’s only natural to want to get rehab info on…
Perhaps you are a parent worried about your child or an educator aware of warning signs that a student is abusing drugs. Maybe you are a member of the clergy…
The human brain is complex, with countless pieces of the puzzle evolving from birth through the mid-20s. Every segment or center within the brain develops in its own time. Babies…
Despite the increase in awareness and education about opiates, heroin addiction is still rising in the United States. Genetics plays a role in who will become addicted, but that is…
Among the countless ways the world has transformed in the last fifty years, the advent of the internet opened the door to a cascade of cultural changes that affect all…
No one wants to go through drug withdrawal. For those who are addicted to drugs, the addiction itself is what keeps them using. For those who eventually realize that they…
The links between mental health and substance use are well-documented. Teens and others who are affected by depression or anxiety are often diagnosed with a co-occurring addiction. People who struggle…
Concern about teenage substance abuse is all too common among parents, educators, and family physicians. The data supports an ongoing rise in the misuse of alcohol and drugs and addiction…
Addiction is on the rise in the United States. Government experts have made strides regarding prevention, education, and treatment. However, many Americans are still vulnerable to this terrible disease due…
The fentanyl crisis is a significant part of the nation’s opioid crisis. This synthetic opioid is one of the strongest opioids in existence. However, for anyone struggling with this deadly…
Not all addiction treatment programs are created equal. What works for adults is not necessarily what will work for teens. Adolescent-focused rehab programs have a high success rate. We design…
Choosing an opioid treatment center for yourself or someone you love can be a daunting task. The rise of the opioid epidemic and the increase in substance abuse during the…
Inpatient rehab for opiate addiction is the highest level of care available for addiction treatment. It starts with medically monitored detox and continues with a full range of integrated mental…
Since it was first extracted from the coca plant in the mid-1800s, cocaine has been used and abused by people seeking a stimulant rush. For many years, experts failed to…
An opiate is a drug that originates from opium, which comes from the poppy plant. There are synthetic drugs that mimic the structure and effects of opiates. They are called…
Studies show numerous positive results from faith-based rehab programs. Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge (PAATC) offers a faith-based rehab that supports those who seek God’s grace to overcome addiction. At…
The good news is, there are options when it comes to drug rehab. If you are struggling with heroin abuse or addiction, it’s time to get help. The kind of…
Heroin use continues to rise in the United States, with over 600,000 people addicted to this powerful opiate. Heroin addiction ruins lives, tears families apart, and often results in death…
Addiction recovery is greater than the sum of its parts, and there are many “parts” to a healthy recovery. Starting with medically supervised detox, a recovery journey involves rehabilitation, therapy,…
If you thought that opiates and opioids were the same things, you are not alone. They are, in fact, different, though similar in many of the ways that count. At…
Drug rehab comes in many different packages. One of the first decisions people have to make is whether to attend inpatient or outpatient treatment. There are numerous benefits to inpatient…
If you suspect that you or a loved one is addicted to an opioid, like prescription narcotics, or opiate, like heroin or morphine, it’s the right time to look into…
What is an opioid? It is a synthetic or partly synthetic substance, meaning it was created in a lab. It acts on the human body the way an opiate does.…
Opioid overdoses have doubled in the United States during the pandemic. People in isolation and struggling with job insecurity, loss of loved ones, and fear of illness are relapsing or…
The first step in recovery takes place inside you—when something shifts, and you know you want to make a change. The next step can be a simple one: pick up…
Fentanyl has been around for a while, but it’s in the news more and more as our opioid crisis worsens. This medication is a synthetic narcotic 50 to 100 times…
For teens struggling with substance misuse, dependence, and addiction, making a decision about rehab can be difficult. As with anyone who is ready to engage in rehab, teens’ families may…
Detox is short for detoxification, which refers to the process of ridding the body of toxins. For someone with substance abuse disorder, detox is the period of physical withdrawal when…
When teens abuse drugs and alcohol, it affects the whole family. Parents may hesitate to take action simply because they are unsure of the best steps for an adolescent. It…
The mental health and substance use risks for teens are in many ways unique to their stage of life. Though on the cusp of adulthood, their mental, physical, and psychological…
When you or your loved one know it’s time to seek help for addiction, the number of options can seem overwhelming. Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge can offer a comprehensive…
When you are ready to begin your recovery journey with Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge (PAATC) and pick up the phone to call us at 844.442.8673, you have started the…
Opioid addiction rates have risen since the late 1990s when reassurances that patients could not become addicted to prescription opioid painkillers turned out to be dangerously false. Today, there are…
Methamphetamine or meth is a powerful synthetic stimulant that the FDA has classified as a Schedule II substance because it is highly addictive. Drug manufacturers make it in kitchens, basements,…
Addiction to any substance essentially follows the same roadmap. When you abuse many substances, they flood the body with toxins. These toxins build up in the body of someone who…
The consumption of alcohol is legal in the United States over the age of 21. Unfortunately, this intoxicating substance is also very commonly abused, creating a dangerous cocktail when combined…
An alcoholic is defined as a person who suffers from alcohol use disorder. This disease was at one time known as alcoholism, which originated from a person’s intense and uncontrollable…
In the past, there was a significant stigma that surrounded mental health issues. Now, this stigma has started to fade. This has given rise to numerous resources for serious conditions…
There are various signs and symptoms of a drinking problem. Some are easy to recognize, while others are more subtle. In addition, the severity of a person’s drinking problem can…
Unfortunately, we are living in an opioid epidemic. Countless people have battled an opioid addiction. In many cases, this addiction starts with prescription medications. Opioid medications remain the first-line treatment…
Millions of people in the United States suffer from mental health issues, including substance abuse disorders. Therefore, if you or someone you love is going through the addiction recovery process,…
If you or someone you know is looking for help with mental health and addiction recovery, then you may be interested in a dual diagnosis program. At Pennsylvania Adult &…
If you are getting ready for a surgical procedure, the surgeon will probably talk to you about how he or she will put you to sleep. They may also discuss…
Among the various issues facing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania today, the opioid epidemic is among the worst. Both legal and illegal opioids have the potential to cause serious damage to…
If you are someone you know is dealing with substance abuse or mental health issues, you are not alone. There are plenty of people who find themselves in the same…
If you are looking for assistance with mental health issues, plenty of people find themselves in the same situation. One of the treatment options that you may have heard about…
If you are someone who is suffering from substance abuse issues, you are probably looking for help. Countless substances can be addictive, and some of them are legal, such as…
Between movies, celebrities, and nighttime activities, it can be hard to avoid drug and alcohol exposure. The constant danger of substances, such as alcohol and narcotics, can make it difficult…
No definition of addiction would be complete without mentioning how cravings are part of the issue. There are multiple aspects of addiction, which vary according to each person who finds difficulty…
Millions of people across the country are addicted to alcohol or drugs (or both). In fact, about one in every 10 Americans over the age of 12 struggles with substance…
If your loved one has recently begun their journey toward sobriety, your support is crucial. While normal family activities will still occur, your loved one needs your patience and consideration.…
If you or your loved one is addicted to drugs or alcohol, this may be a frightening time for you. You know you need to seek addiction treatment, but you’re…
Finding an effective treatment program is essential when you or a loved one struggles with alcohol or drug addiction. Residential treatment programs provide a caring environment where those who have an addiction…
One thing that people often misunderstand is that peer pressure does not only affect teenagers. Adults are at risk of bowing to peer pressure as well. Sometimes you may have…
Has a loved one’s behavior changed for the worse? Is he or she avoiding you for no apparent reason or refusing to participate in activities that he or she once…
The past year has been challenging for those dealing with drug and alcohol addictions with the current pandemic. According to the US government, respondents to a survey in May 2020…
Traditional wisdom suggests two basic types of addiction. Either a person is born with the potential for addiction due to genetics, or they develop an addiction with extended substance abuse. Often,…
For those in recovery from substance use disorder, the holidays present enormous challenges. The media promotes Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve as a prime time for happy families. But…
Those who struggle with social anxiety disorder feel uncomfortable in large crowds or with people they don’t know. As a result, holiday celebrations become sources of frustration and anxiety. Office…
Your brain is your body’s computer. It uses neurons to send and receive messages throughout the central nervous system, including the spine. Nerves branch out from this central system and…
Individualization is a guiding principle of addiction treatment. Generally, this means that an addiction rehab program must suit the needs of the individual. What works for your friend may not…
Online learning is more stressful for some families than it is for others. And when teenagers are the ones learning online, problems often become more frightening than they would otherwise.…
Structure plays a huge role in recovery from addiction. As a result, when children must transition from a regular school day to online learning, it can throw parents in recovery…
Addiction isn’t always about drugs and alcohol. Substance use disorder is the one we hear about most, however. As a result, when someone mentions having a friend or family member…
Do you worry that your loved one may experiment with self-medication? Generally, this is the act of taking a chemical substance or prescription medication without a doctor’s direct order. If…
Addiction affects everyone who interacts with the person who has a problem. When you love a person who has a problem with alcohol or drugs, you want to help them…
Your loved one has made the brave decision to get help for their addiction. Now you want to help them find the best addiction rehab center possible to help them…
Many doctors prescribe benzos to address addiction and other mental health conditions. In addition, those going through alcohol withdrawal may use the medication to help ease symptoms. COVID-19 has caused…
The holiday season can be one of the most challenging times for someone on the recovery path. This issue is especially problematic in earlier years. Enjoying a sober Thanksgiving is…
Entering addiction treatment can be a confusing time for both the person entering and their loved ones. You want to be there and help your loved one in any way…
Halloween can be a risky holiday for many people. If you are using to spending time with your friends drinking or using your favorite drug, but now you’re in recovery,…