Addiction
The activities, chemicals and processes that can prove physically or psychologically addictive are vast. Products containing nicotine, alcohol and caffeine; illicit drugs such as cocaine and heroin; gambling; sex; and even video games are known to cause dependence. Use the Addiction Web Guide to find the Web’s top resources on different types of addictions, along with general resources for getting addiction help.
An addiction is an overpowering urge to abuse a particular substance or engage in a particular activity. This physical or emotional dependence causes addicts to seek fuel for their addictions in compulsive ways, often sacrificing some combination of health, safety, relationships, employment and financial stability. Use the sites below to find background information on addiction, including issues such as causes, diagnosis and treatment.
- The Web sites of national health institutes, addiction treatment centers, support groups, mental health organizations and online health sites offer excellent information on addiction. This directory from Web of Addictions is a great place for browsing these types of sites.
- General health sites, like those found in the findingDulcinea Health Web Guide, have articles covering different kinds of addiction. Most all include information on drug addiction, with some also covering compulsive gambling, sex addiction, alcoholism and others.
For an overview of addiction …
MedlinePlus
has an overview of drug addiction and dependence.
TeensHealth
has information for teens on addiction. It includes advice on preventing addiction and on seeking help. Find more articles on addiction and additional substance abuse resources.
Drug War Facts
has a chart the compares the addictive qualities of nicotine, heroin, cocaine, alcohol, caffeine and marijuana. Look for comparisons of the strength of the dependence, tolerance, withdrawal, reinforcement and intoxication of each substance on a six-point scale.
For addiction treatment information …
Recovery Connection
is a “private referral network” designed to help drug users and addicts get the help they need. Learn about individual drugs and get advice on where to go for help in treating your specific addiction. Look for other resources, such as information on interventions, rehabilitation and detox.
To find an addiction specialist or facility …
Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration
has a search tool to help you find a treatment program in your area. Select your state, enter the name of your city and the distance you’re willing to travel, and the locater produces a list of centers with contact information, location on a map and detailed descriptions of the services provided.
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