Alcohol Addiction and Alcoholism
January 2, 2008
For many people, the facts about alcohol abuse and alcohol addiction are not clear. What is alcohol abuse, exactly? How does it differ from alcoholism (i.e., alcohol addiction)? When should a person seek help for a problem related to his or her drinking? The following information explains both alcohol abuse and alcoholism, the symptoms of each, when and where to seek help, alcohol treatment choices, and additional helpful alcoholism resources.
Alcohol Dependence, Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse: A Widespread ProblemFor most people who drink, alcohol is a pleasant accompaniment to social activities. Moderate alcohol use-up to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women and older people-is not harmful for most adults. (A standard drink is one 12-ounce bottle or can of either beer or wine cooler, one 5-ounce glass of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits.) Nonetheless, a large number of people get into serious trouble because of their drinking. Currently, nearly 14 million Americans-1 in every 13 adults-abuse alcohol or are alcoholic. Several million more adults engage in risky drinking that could lead to alcohol problems. These patterns include binge drinking and heavy drinking on a regular basis. In addition, 53 percent of men and women in the United States report that one or more of their close relatives have a drinking problem.
Young Gays Are More Likely To Take Drugs
December 30, 2007
New York City) Two new studies suggest that the use of so-called party drugs is more prevalent among young gay men than their straight counterparts.
The first study was of 3,492 men aged between 15 and 22 who had sex with other men. It found that almost one in three used substances such as crystal meth, ecstasy, marijuana or cocaine at least once a week. A further two-thirds had used drugs during the previous six months.
The lifetime use of cocaine among gay men was nearly double the level among heterosexuals.
“Effective gay drug addiction prevention and gay drug rehab programs … are urgently needed for young men who have sex with men, a population with a high rate of illicit drug use,” the report concludes.
The results of the four year study appear in the American Journal of Public Health.
The second study was done in the UK and examined the mental health and social well being of more than 2,200 gay men, lesbians, heterosexuals and bisexuals in England and Wales.
The report, published in Mind, said: “Levels of substance-use disorders were higher among gay men and lesbians, who were more likely than their heterosexual counterparts to have used recreational drugs.”
The research backs up suspicions that LGBT healthcare workers have had for a number of years. Previous research studies have shown a link between the use of party drugs and unsafe sex (story).
Heroin Addiction
December 1, 2007
Heroin or diacetylmorphine (INN) is a semi-synthetic opioid. It is the 3,6-diacetyl derivative of morphine (hence diacetylmorphine) and is synthesised from it by acetylation.
Heroin or diacetylmorphine (INN) is a semi-synthetic opioid. It is the 3,6-diacetyl derivative of morphine (hence diacetylmorphine) and is synthesised from it by acetylation. The white crystalline form is commonly the hydrochloride salt, diacetylmorphine hydrochloride. It has a high drug addiction potential, and frequent repeated ingestion causes a fast development of tolerance to it when compared to other substances, although occasional use without symptoms of withdrawal is also possible. Internationally, Heroin is controlled under Schedules I and IV of the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs . It is illegal to manufacture, possess, or sell heroin in the United States but, under the name diamorphine, heroin is a legal prescription drug in the United Kingdom.
Popular street names for heroin include dope, diesel, smack, skag, heron, black tar, horse, junk, jenny, brown, brown sugar, dark and H.
What Goes On In a Gay Drug Rehab?
October 12, 2007
A gay drug rehab or gay alcohol treatment program usually has the same services as any other drug rehab or alcohol treatment program, except their will be a focus on gay specific issues. These issues may include, but not be limited to, coming out, living in a heterosexual world, development of new social networks, prejudice and sexuality.
The addiction treatment or drug rehab services are generally the same. They will provide group therapy, individual therapy, educational classes, medica detox, psychiatric evaluations,12 step groups and family therapy. Depending on the quality of the gay drug rehab, they may provide additional focus on recreational therapy, spiritual development, nutrition or physical fitness.
Is everyone who tries alcohol or drugs destined for addiction?
October 10, 2007
No. Not everyone who uses alcohol or experiments with illegal drugs ends up addicted. In fact, alcohol can be enjoyed by many people without serious negative consequences. Unfortunately, it is not possible to tell early on whose use may lead to addiction. The following are several different ways that people use alcohol and drugs:
Experimental Use – Out of curiosity or through peer pressure, individuals may try drinking alcohol or using illegal drugs. If the use of the alcohol or drug continues irresponsibly, experimentation may become problematic.
Social/Recreational Use – Drinking alcoholic beverages is permitted in American society, and some excessive use may even be condoned. If use does not cause problems for the user, or cause problems for others, most people consider such use to be social or recreational.
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