woman considers whether or not alcohol is a drug

Is Alcohol a Drug?

Is alcohol a drug? Alcohol is classified as a depressant that slows function in the brain and central nervous system. When you drink alcohol, you may experience disturbed perceptions, unsteady movement, and slurred speech. Your brain and body are unable to react quickly in any situation. Alcohol also inhibits your ability to think rationally and…

Woman seeks to understand the definition of addiction

Understanding the Addiction Definition

The term addiction has taken on many meanings over the years. It has also been interchangeable with other terms such as substance abuse, dependency, and disorder. While the addiction definition may have a different meaning to different people, almost everyone agrees that addiction implies that a person has a drinking or drug problem. The addiction…

a man learns about the benefits of addiction treatment center

How to Choose an Addiction Treatment Center

We live in a high-speed, high-stress world. The concerns of family and work can be overwhelming. Sometimes people turn to drugs or alcohol to cope, and sometimes that leads to addiction. If that happens to you, it may be time to seek addiction treatment. In an addiction treatment center, doctors and counselors work with you…

man drinking and unsure if hes struggling with alcohol dependence or alcohol addiction

Differences Between Alcohol Dependence and Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol dependence and alcohol addiction are often used interchangeably. But the two concepts are not the same. In certain cases, an individual may suffer from alcohol addiction without being physically dependent on alcohol. When this happens, it becomes difficult to know when to get help. One of the most effective ways to get help is…

woman drinking wondering is alcohol a depressant

Is Alcohol a Depressant?

If you are someone who drinks, you may at some point have pondered this question: is alcohol a depressant? The answer is a resounding yes. The cost of what this depressant can do, to the individual and society alike, is enormous. Alcohol is a depressant because it acts on your central nervous system and slows…

man holding glass showing signs of alcohol overdose

Signs of Alcohol Overdose

Drinking alcohol is part of our society. While most people can drink with no major consequences, others aren’t so fortunate. Drinking can become a problem, sometimes with life-threatening consequences. In those moments, it’s important to know the signs of alcohol overdose. The signs of alcohol overdose are decidedly not pretty and require medical assistance. The…

woman worrying her partner is going through the stages of addiction

Stages of Addiction

The popular portrayal of addiction is someone whose life has turned into a mess and is rejecting all efforts to help. It’s a false portrayal. The stages of addiction, while predictable, are varied from individual to individual. Sometimes addiction does cause severe effects, but other times it doesn’t, and that’s what makes treatment a challenge.…