Opioid use disorder (OUD) includes dependence on natural opiates and synthetic opioids. It causes cravings, health and social harm, and carries overdose risk. Effective modern care combines medications, counseling, and harm-reduction measures.
Recovery from addiction is often nonlinear and challenging because of withdrawal, cravings, and co-occurring mental health issues. Combining medication, behavioral therapies, peer support, and harm reduction improves outcomes.
A personal account of growing up with an alcoholic parent, updated with modern understanding of addiction, current treatment options, and the ongoing impact on families.
Medications can help reduce craving or deter drinking, but they work best when combined with counseling, coordinated care, and ongoing aftercare for alcohol use disorder.
Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disorder involving compulsive substance use or behaviors despite harm. Modern care combines medication, psychotherapy, and social support; recovery often requires long-term strategies.
Alcohol use disorder is treatable with a combination of medications, behavioral therapies, medical detox when needed, and peer support. Treatment should be tailored to severity, health status, and personal goals.