Mental Health Articles

A Look at the Relationship Between Depression and Substance Abuse

March 23, 2017 Posted in: Press Release

The relationship between depression and substance abuse often demands that sufferers receive dual diagnosis treatment. These conditions present at the same time due to a myriad of reasons. Depression can cause those who suffer from it to seek relief in drugs or alcohol. They may find that when they drink, smoke, or inject a particular substance, it can dull the uncomfortable feelings that depression produces. The longer they go without seeking appropriate treatment for their depression, the more likely that they will develop a chemical dependency problem as well. In some cases, a substance abuse problem can precede the onset of depression. The consumption of both depressants and stimulants can trigger the beginning of depression, as those who use them can experience significant... Continue reading →

A Look at the Addictive Process In the Body

March 23, 2017 Posted in: Press Release

Addiction changes multiple aspects of a person’s life, including their physical, emotional, and social health. In particular, it can make an addict physically dependent on his drug of choice. The following information on the addictive process can help to explain why extricating oneself from addiction requires comprehensive support from both loved ones and medical specialists to overcome the body’s reliance on drugs.

Pleasurable High

Many people begin taking drugs because they elicit an enjoyable response. Though this response may stem from chemical reactions in the brain, the rest of the body also reacts to the presence of the drug. The nature of the response depends on the type of drug that an addict consumes.... Continue reading →

The Relationship Between Substance Abuse and Mental Health

March 23, 2017 Posted in: Press Release

Drug and alcohol abuse is often approached with a dual-diagnosis strategy to address both addiction and mental health disorders. This method is highly successful for long-term treatment, because drug use and mental health problems are closely intertwined. Here is a closer look at this complex relationship that may be affecting you or a loved one.

Two-way causation

Personality changes and problems in an individual’s personal life may be the result of drug abuse or a mental disorder, so a dual-diagnosis is the best approach to flesh out the roots of the problem. Drug abuse can make a person more at-risk for a mental disorder. Alternatively, disorders such as depression can lead to increased substance abuse with drugs ranging from alcohol to heroin.

Worsening mental... Continue reading →

Gastric Bypass Surgery and Alcoholism

March 23, 2017 Posted in: Press Release

Alcoholism may be fueled by a number of emotional or mental problems, but some people tend to have more addictive personalities. Evidence for this has been seen in patients of gastric bypass surgery.

As this video explains, the difficulties following surgery may lead patients to consume alcohol instead of relying on food as a crutch for stress relief. The problem is compounded by the increased physically addictive qualities of alcohol on individuals who have had their anatomy so dramatically altered.

To find out more about alcohol abuse and the treatment options available to you and your loved ones, contact Aurora Las Encinas Hospital in Pasadena. You can reach us through our website or by calling us at (888) 348-2165.

... Continue reading →

Prescription Drug Overdoses Among Women

March 23, 2017 Posted in: Press Release

The United States is facing a drug epidemic among female Americans. This video reports on how prescription drugs are contributing to a skyrocketing rate of medication overdoses.

Studies indicate that women are vulnerable to prescription drug overdoses for several reasons. First, women are more willing to speak with a medical professional when they experience painful conditions, such as migraine headaches. Second, to address these problems, doctors typically prescribe pain medication. Yet some women may increase the frequency with which they take these drugs to find greater pain relief. Others may get prescriptions from multiple doctors, which can also heighten the risk of overdose.

Are you reliant on prescription drugs to get through the day? Call Las Encinas Hospital in... Continue reading →

Prescription Drug Abuse In the U.S. Military

March 23, 2017 Posted in: Press Release

The face of addiction can be seen in all demographics and socioeconomic groups. As this video explains, even those in the military can succumb to chemical dependency.

Members of the military may not abuse street drugs such as heroin and cocaine, but statistics indicate that approximately one-fifth of them depend upon prescription drugs. Some military members become addicted after suffering injuries that warrant pain-killing medications. Others use it to mask painful emotions from their past. No matter the reason, easy access to prescription drugs through medical centers and street dealers is contributing to rising addiction rates.

If you or someone you know is addicted to drugs or alcohol, Las Encinas Hospital can help. To find out more about our chemical dependency... Continue reading →

The Medical Definition of Addiction

March 23, 2017 Posted in: Press Release

Does someone you love suffer from addiction? Knowing what this term means can help you find out. This video explains the central tenets of addiction.

For a person to have a chemical addiction, he must exhibit a high tolerance for a drug. Tolerance refers to how much of a given chemical a person needs to experience his desired high. A high tolerance is one aspect of addiction. Another component of addiction is withdrawal. When someone with an addiction cannot access his drug of choice, his body and mind will respond in adverse ways. Anxiety is a common side effect of withdrawal. Nausea, fatigue, and pain can also occur.

If you or someone you know has a chemical addiction, Las Encinas Hospital can help. For additional information on our addiction treatment services for the... Continue reading →

The Dangers of Prescription Drug Abuse

March 23, 2017 Posted in: Press Release

Make no mistake—prescription drug abuse can be dangerous and deadly. This video reports on how prescription drug abuse can ruin the lives of those who suffer from it as well as their loved ones.

Prescription drug abuse has surged. Central to this epidemic is how easy it is for individuals to attain these types of drugs. People with prescriptions for pain or other medical conditions may find themselves unable to wean off their drugs. Spouses and other loved ones may also try these drugs, which can result in rapid addiction. The stronghold of addiction can cause individuals to steal from people’s homes or interact with dangerous drug dealers, which can lead to legal and lethal repercussions.

If you have a prescription drug abuse problem, call Las Encinas Hospital at (888) 348... Continue reading →

An Interview with Crystal Meth Addicts

March 23, 2017 Posted in: Press Release

Meth is a devastating drug that has both long-term health effects and the potential for serious legal consequences. You can get a glimpse at how deeply and permanently meth can affect a person’s life by watching this video.

In the clip, two meth addicts talk about how using the drug again would completely destroy their lives. The treatment process is difficult, as the drug has had powerful effects on their physical and mental well-being.

If you or a loved one is seeking help for a meth addiction, consult Aurora Las Encinas Hospital in Los Angeles. To connect with our staff of behavioral health professionals, visit our website today or call us directly at (888) 348-2165.

... Continue reading →

Is Heroin Use Rising In America?

March 23, 2017 Posted in: Press Release

The passing of actor Cory Monteith due to heroin complications has generated interest in the problem of heroin usage in the United States. This video reports on the increasing number of people who abuse this drug.

In 2002, studies indicated that approximately 400,000 Americans had used heroin at some point during the year. Less than a decade later, that number went up to more than 600,000. Concurrent with the increase in heroin usage is the consumption of prescription opioids. Substance abuse experts believe a connection is inherent between these two circumstances. Many people who begin abusing prescription opioids eventually turn to heroin because of its easier access.

Las Encinas Hospital in Pasadena offers substance abuse treatment services for individuals suffering from... Continue reading →