When it comes to beating an addiction to drugs or alcohol, information is power. Although the field of addiction science is changing and growing every day, a wealth of information exists to help both people addicted to substances and their family members recover from this dangerous and damaging illness. Unfortunately, there are also many misconceptions — which is why finding reliable, factual information is of the utmost importance.
At 12 Keys Rehab, we are ready to answer your questions about substance abuse at any time. Call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to learn more about addiction and the holistic treatment we provide. Should you have additional questions, explore these resources, and make sobriety an essential part of your healthy, rewarding lifestyle.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse and NIDA for Teens
The National Institute on Drug Abuse, part of the federal government’s National Institutes of Health, was created to research, explore and educate the public on the history, statistics and effects of drug abuse. The NIDA tracks drug abuse statistics for adolescents and adults, the results of which are revealing and often frightening. One of the most frequently reported NIDA statistics is the rise in prescription drug abuse, which is currently the greatest substance abuse threat in the United States. The results of NIDA surveys have the power to change the law and are one of the reasons that prescription drugs are increasingly difficult to purchase and abuse. The NIDA for Teens website also features a wealth of information for adolescents and their parents.
The Mayo Clinic
The Mayo Clinic is one of the preeminent health facilities in the world. Although the facility itself is best known for treating serious illnesses related to heart health, cancer, diseases of unknown origin and other issues not related to addiction, the information its website provides in matters relating to substance abuse is comprehensive, clear and easily understood by the layperson. Explore MayoClinic.com for more information on alcoholism and drug abuse, including potential causes, risk factors, complications, diagnosis, treatments, support and prevention. You can also learn more about the definition of substance abuse and the symptoms commonly associated with addiction.
The Partnership at DrugFree.org
Did you know that 90 percent of addictions develop during adolescence? DrugFree.org is committed to helping families prevent and treat teen substance abuse by encouraging collaboration among addiction scientists, public relations professionals and parents. DrugFree.org provides support for families suffering through a loved one’s addiction problem while also raising awareness of the facts and myths surrounding substance abuse. For parents and loved ones of people addicted to alcohol and/or drugs, DrugFree.org is a tremendous resource for support, information and action.
The New York Times and About.com
Because the field of addiction science is changing every day, staying abreast of the latest research is essential. Treatments such as neurobiofeedback and cognitive behavioral therapy have shown tremendous promise in changing behavior and revealing the roots of addiction. The New York Times Health Guide and About.com (a New York Times-operated website) offer authoritative reporting on the latest discoveries in addiction science. Learn about how the rise in prescription painkiller abuse is forcing policymakers to shift away from illicit drug control, or take a test to evaluate your level of chemical dependency with these important resources.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Many people who are addicted to alcohol or drugs also have a co-occurring mental health disorder, a condition known as dual diagnosis. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, which is part of the U.S. government’s Department of Health and Human Services, was formed to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America’s communities, according to SAMHSA.gov. Created in 1992, SAMHSA helps people addicted to drugs and alcohol get access to authoritative information and research, recovery services and more. The goal of SAMHSA is to build stronger communities and prevent costly problems created by addiction, thus providing better overall health.
WebMD.com
WebMD is an online community of health experts who provide clear information on a diverse range of health topics on addiction and beyond. Learn about everything from alcoholism to sugar addiction to what you can do about abusing narcotics, smoking cigarettes and more. WebMD also provides limited crisis resource information that can help you or a family member during an emergency. Please note that the information on WebMD is not a substitute for in-person medical care. Call 911 immediately if signs of serious illness or overdose exist.
The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry promotes the healthy development of children and teenagers. From the research and support it provides to medical providers to the prevention and awareness services it offers to families, the AACAP is an important resource for information on substance abuse in children and adolescents.
Call 12 Keys Rehab
If you would like to speak to someone personally about your own unique situation, contact 12 Keys Rehab. We answer our phone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our staff understands exactly what you’re going through, because we’ve been there ourselves. You don’t have to let addiction define your family’s lifestyle — get help instead, and find your path to freedom, starting today.