A new study published by the Organization of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) considered how alcohol contributed to the rate of the death as compared to other known threats. The shocking finding: “Alcohol now accounts for a higher proportion of deaths worldwide than HIV, AIDS, violence and tuberculosis combined.” While the Untied State

According to recent news reports on a new United States government study, the epidemic of substance abuse has reached critical levels among our nation’s work force. Almost 1 in 10 full-time workers report having a serious drug or alcohol condition in the past year. This poses a serious risk for not only the individuals suffering from substance abuse, but the entire American economy.

Among the serious issues addressed in this study

The holiday season can be haunting and debilitating for those with substance abuse issues. Every year, the holidays present those who suffer from addiction with an immense challenge. Several of our American traditions involve alcohol. From Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, excess is celebrated where those of us who struggle with addiction seek to find peace.

Being around family and friends is no doubt important. Here are a few helpful tips to get you through the holiday season.

Volunteer to be the Designated Driver

Inevitably, holiday festivities and parties that involve alcohol

The “Stages of Change” model is a five-step plan to help addicts, specifically alcoholics, understand their addictions and motivate them to change. The model is based on observations of modifying problem behavior such as smoking, overeating and alcoholism. The five stages…

Overcoming drug addiction can be difficult. In some cases, using medication is not an option; rather, therapy can be a superior option.

Individual vs. Group Therapy

Group therapy is generally chosen over individual therapy in cases of drug treatment. In group therapy, a person is more likely to be challenged and supported by others in recovery. 

Nutritional Therapy

Those with alcohol or drug addiction are generally malnourished and have suffered a number of blows to their body, such as liver damage. Nutritional therapy attempts to reverse this damage by fulfilling nutrition and eliminating toxins. Zinc and Vitamin C are both great nutrients that can aid in detoxification. Antioxidants are also beneficial as they can neutralize free radicals. Antioxidants include beta-carotene, Vitamin C and E, zinc and selenium.

Alcohol addicts generally suffer from low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. To reduce the symptoms of hypoglycemia, it can be helpful to increase the intake of unrefined complex carbohydrates, avoid all sugars and reduce the intake of refined carbohydrates.