When I am meeting with individuals seeking information about addiction often people ask me the same question. What causes addiction? I tell them about the four theories of addiction, the genetic theory, the environmental theory, the psychological theory, and the spiritual theory. When discussing these theories I often repeat that it is not really know what causes addiction and that what is important is that addiction can be treated and
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One of the defining characteristics of addiction is the inability to control drug or alcohol use despite efforts to do so. Thinking about that for a minute, that concept clearly illustrates how powerful drug addiction really is. It forces people to do something they absolutely know is destructive and have vowed not to do again. Why does this happen? That is a million dollar question. Here is a suggested list
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As a therapist in a treatment program, most of my clients have been diagnosed with a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorders. This means typically having abuse or dependence to substance(s) as well as a mental health diagnosis such as Major Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, or Bipolar Disorder, to name just a few. The combinations can vary with each individual in my caseload. However, what I have seen consistently contributing to
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Calling all addiction and mental health professionals. Save the Date for the EAP Florida Conference.  Download the flyer for EAP Florida below. EAP Florida Conference 2011 Please contact Craig Benoit at 954-917-3334 or email craigbenoit@challenges-program.com for more information.

The major problem is that many people use alcohol and drugs with the idea that they can provide relief for solution to the ups and downs of life’s problems. The difficulty with this thinking is that often times use of alcohol and drugs does not solve problems at all but rather creates them. Many people who have poor problem-solving skills rely on the avoidance of getting high or drinking to
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