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Introduction To Addictive Disorders
In this guide, the
Addictive Disorders discussed refer to health matters dealing with both physical and psychological intense desires or cravings for substances
or behaviors that grow into dependency. For example, not only will alcohol and drug dependency be addressed, but addictions dealing with
issues like emotional, “things” or “people” attachments. The general concept is that these cravings or yearnings are ongoing in spite of the
fact that they cause the addicted person, and at times others, harm at various levels; social, psychological and physical. And on the whole,
the addictive disorders that are discussed are considered progressive or advancing in nature, and chronic or lasting for a long period of
time, with distinct periods of recurrence.
There are some alarming
facts to consider regarding addictive disorders. For instance, a recent report in the National Drug Addiction Recovery Month Kit showed the
cost of alcohol and illicit drug use in the workplace, including lost productivity, accidents and medical claims to be an estimated $140
billion per year.
Another fact: every eight
seconds, a person dies due to a tobacco-related illness, according to the World Health Organization.
Also, an estimated 28
percent to 30 percent of people in the U.S.A. alone have an addictive substance abuse disorder, a mental health disorder or both, according to
a 2002 report by the National Mental Health Association.
And alcohol abuse and
dependence occurs four times as much among men over the age of 65 than women in the same age group, according to the Surgeon General's Report
on Mental Health, 1999.
With Addictive Disorders
being such a large important part of everyday life, this ebook strives to help clear up myths from facts and present an overview of the issues
surrounding the disorders. It includes information about some of the top addictions in society today, along with a variety of solutions
available to help with treatment and coping, based upon the most recent studies, research, reports, articles, findings, products and services
available, so that you can learn more about Overcoming Addictions.
For example, consider the
following and decide if it is myth or truth: addicts cannot be medically treated. This is a myth. Some substance addicts can be medically
treated via a detoxifying program, followed up by treatment with new medicines like Bupropion (Zyban) and Naltrexone (ReVia).
These medicines help people who are refraining from addictive substances to keep their desires for them in check.
Note that the contents here are not presented from a medical practitioner, and that any and all
health care planning should be made under the guidance of your own medical and health practitioners. The content within only presents an
overview of Overcoming Addictions research for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice from a professional
physician.
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