Addiction - Definition, Cause and Effects

Everybody has heard about the word addiction. But what exactly is addiction? Well, allow me to give you a minor definition:

Addiction is a habitual repetition of excessive behavior that a person is unable or unwilling to stop, despite its harmful consequences. People can be physically addicted to a drug, meaning they may suffer ill physical effects if they stop taking the drug. They also can be psychologically addicted to drugs, gambling, or other behaviors, meaning they feel overwhelmingly deprived if they attempt to stop.

People who are addicted to something constantly feel the need to "feed" that addiction. Most often than not, this condition sneaks up on them thereby blinding them to the reality that they have a problem and deceiving them into believing that the "problem" is with others.

Addiction Treatment for Heroin Abuse

The only way to recover from heroin addiction is through a clinical drug rehab program. Although many laypeople continue to view drug addiction as an issue of choice, it is a neurological disorder which requires medical treatment. The severe physical dependencies heroin creates may make recovery seem impossible, but even this addiction can be effectively managed. Here are some of the most popular treatment methods for heroin addiction.

Inpatient Rehab

The three most common types of addiction treatment programs are inpatient rehab, partial hospitalization, and outpatient rehab. For most heroin addicts, the rigors of an inpatient program are necessary for long-term sobriety.

Added Sugar in Diet Threatens Heart Health

While there's no denying our taste buds enjoy sugar, a new study brings evidence that it is pretty troublesome for the rest of the body, most especially the heart. The added sugar that is part of so many of our prepared and processed foods are threatening our cardiovascular health, lowering levels of protective HDL cholesterol while raising levels of triglycerides, maybe even making people fatter according new research.

The study was based on data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Study from 1999-2006 and included 6,113 adults. Phone interviewers asked participants what they had eaten the day before, and then estimated the total added sugar in each diet.

Adderall and Its Side-Effects

Adderall is a stimulant medication used in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in both children and adults. It is made from a combination of four amphetamine compounds. Adderall is useful because it covers a broader range of ADHD symptoms than a single compound medication such as Ritalin, and because it is a "one a day" dosing. A child with attention deficit disorder usually has to take only one dose of adderall per day to get through school and get his homework done. Adderall is also often used instead of Ritalin because it is less "harsh," having less of a reported "rebound effect" in children and teens than Ritalin. Adderall Side Effects All stimulants have side effects, and the side effects from Adderall can be serious. Any amphetamine can be over used and result in drug addiction. Because Adderall is made from amphetamine, it can cause your child's heart to race, elevate heart rate to dangerous levels, and raise blood pressure to dangerous levels. Adderall side effects include overstimulation of the central nervous system, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, tremors, headaches, hyperactivity, and tics or Tourettes Syndrome. A common Adderall side effect is a dry mouth, a bad taste in the mouth, diarrhea, constipation, upset stomach, and loss of appetite. Children often lose weight when taking stimulants. Stimulants may reduce growth rates in children. Sexual dysfunction is a common problem in adults using stimulants. For more information about Adderall, and other treatment options for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, visit the ADHD Information Library.

Help Ease Anxiety and Depression With These Four Natural Remedies - Herbs For Depression and Anxiety

Herbs for anxiety and depression are an alternative to prescription medications. Some people prefer to choose alternative and natural remedies and treatments for lifestyle and health reasons to name a few. Some seem to work well for depression and others, better for anxiety.

If you suffer with either of these disorders, the following list of herbs may be something for you to consider.

* Kava kava

According to research and clinical studies, kava is a muscle relaxant which has a calming effect and can work like a tranquilizer. It is not addicting and safe without the adverse side effects of prescription medication. It can help to relieve stress, insomnia, irritability and tension. If taking anti-depressant medications, it is advisable to consult with your health care professional before taking kava.