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Substance Abuse

Substance abuse, or drug abuse is about using a drug in ways that harm the health of its consumer. Very often, substance abuse involves taking drugs that are illegal, or using a drug that is legal for... more
Substance abuse, or drug abuse is about using a drug in ways that harm the health of its consumer. Very often, substance abuse involves taking drugs that are illegal, or using a drug that is legal for something other than its intended purpose. The term also covers the case of someone taking too much of a drug on purpose; very often this is called overdose. Psychoactive drugs are often abused.
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Questions and Answers

I over endulge when I drink alcohol and feel extremely guilty about it the next day

Lori McGruder
Lori McGruder
Addiction and Trauma Counselor

Thank you for writing in with this important question. There are some key words in your question that indicate you may have a problem; they are, "over indulge," "feel really guilty," and "angry drunk." You also indicate that you have been unfaithful in your relationship while under the influence... more

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide. If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.
Dr. Meredyth Lawrynce
Dr. Meredyth Lawrynce
Serving Clients Nationwide

That is great that you recognize you over indulge. Also considering what is the deeper reason of your drinking and over drinking, to escape, to feel you belong in a group, there are so many possible variables. The guilt is your body/brains way of knowing this behavior does not resonate with your... more

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide. If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.
Rachelle Bloksberg
Rachelle Bloksberg
Become the best version of yourself.

Guilt is a feeling that comes from thinking you did something bad. You may be thinking drinking is bad for you. What is it that you want? Who do you want to be? You mentioned you get angry when you drink. How would you rather be around people? You have cheated on your boyfriend. What kind of... more

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide. If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.

I feel insecure, on edge, and drink too much

Dr Traci Kochendorfer
Dr Traci Kochendorfer
Time for you to " Claim IT" with over 15 years in health and wellness, Ph.D Psy.D D.D. F.P.L.C. recognized on TV and Magazines,

First I am sending you some healing vibes 🙌. IT might be time to talk with your main medical provider about a checkup to see if this is relating to signs of PTSD. Or something else. Studies have shown especially with those who have sensitive energies might feel things in an empathic way. Or... more

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide.   If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.

I'm addicted to smoking. How can I stop?

Rebecca Duellman
Rebecca Duellman
MA, Applied Psychology, Specializing in Forensic Psychology issues.

Hi. Good for you in planning ahead to do what's healthiest for your baby (and yourself). That's a great first step! It's also good that you are able to identify that it's not always a physical need that's driving the addiction.For the next steps, I would suggest trying to figure out when the... more

Michael Moates
Michael Moates
I work with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, and Personality/Emotional Regulation

Congratulations for thinking ahead to ensure that your child will have the healthiest possible start in life (and yourself). That is a fantastic way to get started! In addition, it is to your advantage that you are aware that the cravings that drive your addiction are not necessarily the result of a... more

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide.   If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.
Dr. Meredyth Lawrynce
Dr. Meredyth Lawrynce
Serving Clients Nationwide

When trying to quit an addiction it is imperative to decide what purpose the addiction serves. You said it is not a physical need but rather a mental need. What other ways could this need be alleviated? A video I often recommend to those who want to quit a habit is 🍰🍟🍔🍗🍩🚬ADDICTION... more

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide. If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.

I am bipolar and have been absolutely angry for over the last year at my daughter

Dr. Meredyth Lawrynce
Dr. Meredyth Lawrynce
Serving Clients Nationwide


Perhaps dig deep and figure out what you actually feel, and address that in an effort to address the anger! ♥ Kudos for recognizing the behavior and wanting to address it.

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide. If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.

Can I sign my brother into a mental health facility?

Lauren Ostrowski, MA, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, CCTP, CCH
Lauren Ostrowski, MA, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, CCTP, CCH
I tailor my therapeutic approach to each client's strengths and goals

I'm sorry to hear that your brother has been having such a rough time. He's lucky to have you on his side (although he may not always see it that way).As far as whether you can sign him in, that depends on a lot of different things.I would suggest that you Google the state and county that you live... more

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide. If you are currently feeling suicidal, as if you want to hurt or kill yourself or someone else, or are in crisis, call 800-273-8255 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week), call 911, or proceed to your local emergency room.

How can I help my girlfriend?

Dr. Meredyth Lawrynce
Dr. Meredyth Lawrynce
Serving Clients Nationwide

 Changing scenery often helps in recovery. Could you move with her?  Moving could help her depression also. Is she also open to therapy?   Being supportive is one way to help her, and allowing her the space and ways to heal that suits her best.  

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide. If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.

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