Read more about current alcohol and drug addiction news and resources from Gateway.
Pregnant women who use illegal drugs or even legal substances such as tobacco and alcohol can affect their unborn babies. The use of these substances during pregnancy has been linked to a higher risk of some complications, increased likelihood of preterm births, lower birth weights and other problems for infants. If you are pregnant, it…
For many people, getting sober is a complex process due to outside stressors and influences. One of the biggest influences — and sometimes stressors — for someone wanting to get sober is the fact that they have a partner or spouse that continues to use alcohol. The partner who continues to drink or use can…
Summertime, with its longer days and pleasant weather, usually means more outdoor events and parties. From pool parties to weddings and backyard BBQs, these events often have one thing in common — alcohol. While alcohol and summertime socialization may go hand in hand for many individuals, this combination can prove tempting for recovering addicts. It…
As the United States death toll from COVID-19 continues to rise, attention is turning to a hidden epidemic causing even more indirect fatalities from the virus. New data from Well Being Trust forecasts that a further 75,000 Americans will suffer deaths of despair in response to the pandemic. This troubling figure draws attention to the need for…
Making life-changing decisions during times of upheaval is always a challenge. Due to the emergence of COVID-19, many people don’t know when they will go back to work or find another job or even be able to hang out with friends without fear. For those with an active addiction, the uncertainty is even greater and…
As humans, we tend to surround ourselves with people who share common interests, ideas and hobbies. We’re hard-wired for seeking similarities in others — it makes us feel heard, comfortable and safe. It goes without saying, then, that if you used to be — or currently are — a big drinker, then your friends are too. …
Sleep is more than just good for you — it’s essential. Your physical, mental and emotional health all depend upon you catching your z’s. Yet, with our busy schedules, high-stress jobs and frantic lifestyles, sleep eludes many of us. In fact, over 50 million people in the U.S. alone struggle with sleep problems. Sometimes doctors…
Teen substance abuse is a terrifying prospect for any parent. You can’t keep tabs on your teen 24/7, and the risk of them deciding to try drugs or alcohol is always present. However, research shows that the most common time for teens to try a new substance is during the summer. What the Research Shows…
Of the many unfortunate outcomes of substance abuse and addiction, violence is one that has significant ripple effects on families and communities. Whether it’s violence turned inward or channeled into interpersonal conflict and crime, the link is clear. Understanding the complicated relationship between alcohol and violence against oneself or others is crucial in creating effective…
Alcohol is the most commonly used intoxicant, with studies showing that 70 percent of people have had one or more drinks in the past year, and 55 percent of people report drinking in the past month. Despite the many well-known health consequences associated with alcohol consumption, many people put themselves in greater danger by mixing alcohol…