Addiction Blog. Insight and Advice
from Our Austin Area Addiction Recovery Experts.

Cocaine Addiction in Texas—How Can It Be Stopped? What can I do about cocaine addiction in Texas? When you’re struggling from cocaine addiction, then you’re well aware of the harmful effects it can have on you. Cocaine is not only involved in severe damage to people’s health and increased risk of death, but it’s also…

CEASE FIGHTING When I first came to treatment and recovery I was certain I was through. I had beaten myself up so badly that I thought I was absolutely resolved to give up the drinking and drugging life and do whatever I had to do to get well. I came into treatment, was handed my…

Mothers Need to Take Action When Their Sons Use Drugs What can I do as a mother when I think my son might be using drugs? Millions of mothers all over the US are struggling with the substance abuse that their sons are getting into. If you’re a mom, you know the feeling when your…

A methamphetamine “Crystal Meth” high is an intense, lengthy altered state of mind that can have devastating effects on the mind and body. If you’ve ever wondered, “how long does meth last?” or “how long does a meth high last?”, the answer is that both of these things can vary based on a number of…

Adderall is a stimulant that is prescribed primarily to treat attention deficit disorder. The drug itself is a blend of four different amphetamines. Researchers do not fully understand how Adderall achieves its effects of increasing concentration and memory, but those effects are very well understood within many different groups of individuals who value concentration and…

PRACTICE THESE PRINCIPALS As we work through the steps of recovery, or the principles as they are alternately called throughout the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, things generally seem fairly evident as to how to proceed. Especially with the guidance of a good sponsor, each step prescribes a detailed course of action that leads us…

The brain has many self-produced neurochemicals which make people feel happiness and joy when an experience occurs. Seven brain molecules are linked to happiness. Here are some keys to unlocking this potential in the brain and in people’s lives. Happiness Daily activities and lifestyle choices have the power to affect overall happiness. One negative side-effect…

The long-term effects of meth can be incredibly detrimental. Methamphetamine is an incredibly addictive drug that can cause a variety of health problems. Many people end up getting addicted to this drug and have a hard time getting off of it. Addiction is by far one of the worst side effects of meth. The Last…

Family therapy is part of rehab and recovery from drug and alcohol abuse. Addiction affects the entire family system therefore, recovery needs to be happy for the entire family, not just the person suffering from substance abuse. The use of psychodrama for the family is one tool people can use to grow in recovery from…

Forgiveness can be one of the most challenging, and rewarding, aspects of recovery. An important part of the recovery process is learning to deal with the residual effects of addiction. This means reflecting on the harm done to yourself and others with a new perspective: less feelings of anger or resentment with more feelings of…

Recovering from addiction is a difficult and strenuous time for anyone involved. The people in your life are going to want to see you do well and conquer addiction, but it may be hard to get them to trust you again. Most people need time to feel you out to see for themselves if you…

In & Out Of Treatment When I came into treatment I thought the nightmare was completely over. I was in a safe place. It was one of the best treatment programs in the area with some of the best odds for long-term sobriety. This was also my first contact with people who came in like…

Alcohol poisoning can be fatal. You should take care to know what the symptoms of alcohol poisoning are if you spend time drinking or around people that do drink. This way you can identify alcohol poisoning before it becomes deadly. Anyone can get alcohol poisoning. Being aware of the dangers of heavy drinking can save…

Relapse: the Top 3 Ways to Protect Yourself How can I avoid the threat of relapse when I’m recovering from drug addiction? When you’re someone who’s struggling with drug addiction, relapse can be a constant threat. After all, even if you complete a program of rehab a high-quality drug rehab center, that doesn’t mean that…

Making a complete list of all your addiction triggers is just one part of making an individual relapse prevention plan. If you’re in a 12-Step program, start by revisiting your self-inventory from Step 4. Highlight the factors that had the biggest influence on your turning to—and staying in—substance abuse. Asking Questions When Building a Relapse…

The day is finally here. The sun is shining outside as you gather your things and sign out at the front registry. You completed your intensive residential treatment program here at The Last Resort and you’re ready to walk out into the world a new man and begin your life after alcohol rehab. Beginning Life…

Alcohol is one of the most widely abused psychoactive substances worldwide. Alcohol is a fixture at many culturally significant events, like weddings and major sports events. Also, alcohol is a type of central nervous system depressant, which results in calming effects. Additionally, alcohol also can cause severe liver disease, memory loss, and cardiovascular problems. But,…

Alcoholism: How Do I Know My Limits? How do I know if I’m drinking too much? Millions of Americans struggle with an addiction to, or chemical dependence on, alcohol: alcoholism. But in controlled consumption and moderation, alcohol can be safe to use. How do you know the difference between drinking that’s okay, and dangerous drinking?…

Addictions vary from person to person. Substance abuse, drug use, sex, work and relationships are just a few ways people become addicted. Sometimes, it is a combination or there can be co-occurring disorders along with addiction. Similarly, addictions are all based on doing something in excess, living out old habits and patterns but are likewise…