Facts
- Barbiturates are prescribed as anticonvulsants, sedatives, and general anesthetics but can also induce euphoria, elation, and uninhibited behavior which make them candidates for abuse. If individuals suddenly cease using the barbiturates, symptoms of withdrawal syndrome appear 12-20 hours after the last dose.
- Women who drink heavily are at an increased risk for damage to the heart muscle than men, even for women drinking at lower levels.
- Serious alcohol withdrawal can produce delirium tremens (DTs) which involves profound confusion, hallucinations, and severe autonomic nervous system over-activity.
- When receiving treatment for HIV, individuals who consume alcohol may have difficulty following the difficult medications regimen in place to treat the disease, all factors which increase the likelihood that an infected person will infect others or will go on to develop AIDS.
Gays and Lesbians - Oakland, IllinoisGays and lesbians who develop problems with drug abuse have the choice of going to a drug rehab program that is specially designed for gays or lesbians. Deciding to attend one of these programs is a very good first step towards recovery. While in treatment recovering addicts not only address their problems with drugs and/or alcohol but also handle other emotional and personal problems they are having difficulties with. Gays and Lesbians in recovery examine how their destructive behavior was a result of inner feelings left unresolved. Counseling and/or therapy helps in resolving issues with isolation, shame, feelings of rejection, discomfort in one's own skin, etc. Once treatment is complete they will be able to feel more secure about who they are and know that drugs and alcohol is not the solution.