October 2023

Physicians use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) to diagnose mental illnesses. In 1980, the American Psychiatric Association recognized substance use disorder (SUD) as a primary mental health disorder in the DSM-3. Currently, the DSM-5 refers to alcoholism as Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) or Substance Use Disorder and classifies it as a mental disorder presenting physical and mental symptoms. So is alcoholism a mental illness? Yes.

2006 U.S. drug legislation moved ephedrine and pseudoephedrine behind pharmacy counters to fight the methamphetamine epidemic. Then, the opioid epidemic took the spotlight. While Americans were focusing on opioids, the drug cartel was busy creating a new type of methamphetamine.

Ambien, also known as zolpidem, is a commonly prescribed medication for the treatment of insomnia. This powerful sedative has helped many people sleep better at night, but it is not without its risks. As with any medication, it is important to understand the potential long-term effects of Ambien, as well as the proper dosage and safety tips for use.

Cross addiction and co-occurring disorders may seem like interchangeable terms. However, there are some key differences between the two.
Cross addiction refers to the development of addiction to multiple substances or behaviors. Co-occurring disorders, also known as dual diagnosis, refer to having both a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder simultaneously.