Author: Chandru

How Does Alcohol Affect Your Period?

How Does Alcohol Affect Your Period (Menstrual Cycle)?

Written by Chandru on . Posted in Alcohol.

Drinking alcohol regularly has various risks that can impact different areas of the body, cause high blood pressure, and increase risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Some people can also be at risk of developing alcohol dependence, which can lead to alcohol addiction. For women, drinking alcohol while on their menstrual cycle has all of these same risks, as well as affecting hormonal levels, which have different impacts on the reproductive system. Understanding how alcohol does affect your period and menstrual cycle can help you make wise choices when it comes to drinking. 

What Is a Menstrual Cycle (Period)? 

A menstrual cycle is the cycle most women experience that ranges between 21 and 35 days. Many people refer to this cycle as a period, but that is only part of the cycle, where women experience menstrual bleeding for three to seven days. The entire menstrual cycle goes through different stages, starting with a period as follows:

  • Menstruation: This stage, often called the period, is when the uterine lining starts to shed and menstrual bleeding begins as estrogen and progesterone levels decrease. 
  • Follicular stage: After a woman’s period ends, she enters the follicular stage, where the lining of the uterus starts to thicken. While the lining begins to thicken in the ovaries, hormones cause follicles to grow, where at least one follicle will produce a mature egg.  
  • Ovulation: About 14 days into the menstrual cycle, luteinizing hormone levels increase, causing the ovary to release the mature egg. 
  • Luteal stage: The mature egg will travel down through the fallopian tubes and into the uterus. Estrogen and progesterone levels start to increase in case the woman becomes pregnant. If a sperm fertilizes the egg, it attaches to the wall of the uterus. If the egg is not fertilized, the menstrual cycle starts over with another period. 

How Does a Menstrual Cycle Work?

A menstrual cycle works through the variation in the release of different hormones and their fluctuating levels over the entire cycle. Anything that affects and influences hormonal levels can have direct impacts on the menstrual cycle, including alcohol. 

Does Alcohol Affect Your Period?

Alcohol can affect your period by causing hormonal imbalances, depending on the amount you drink. Alcohol can cause fluctuations in testosterone, luteinizing, and estrogen levels. For example, when someone binge drinks frequently, it causes a huge increase in estrogen levels. Other effects often include:

  • Worsening of symptoms: Menstrual symptoms can worsen from drinking alcohol during menstruation. Some women notice their cramps and bloating become more severe. Other women might experience sleep disturbances and more frequent mood swings.
  • Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic and causes dehydration for everyone. For women on their period, dehydration can worsen cramping and bloating and cause menstrual blood to thicken. 
  • Heavier period: Another common effect of alcohol on the menstration cycle is causing heavier bleeding. 

How Does Alcohol Affect Your Period?

How alcohol does affect your period is based on your alcohol use. The impacts on a woman’s period differ from one woman to another. Some women will experience irregular menstrual cycles, while others may notice their period stops entirely as estrogen and testosterone levels increase. 

Other hormonal imbalances in the body also occur as a result of drinking, including fluctuations in luteinizing, androgen, and progesterone hormones. These fluctuations can have an impact on the different stages of the entire menstrual cycle. 

How Long Can Alcohol Delay Your Period?

The delay on your period from alcohol will vary from individual to individual, based on factors such as one’s overall general health, metabolism rate, and amount and frequency of alcohol use. Some women may notice their cycles become irregular or even stop, while others may notice no changes at all. Other women’s periods may become heavier, and cramping and bloating worsen. 

What Can I Drink During My Menstrual Cycle?

Since the menstrual cycle runs continuously, it is best to limit your alcohol intake and drink in moderation. According to the NIH, this translates to one drink or less per day and not more than seven drinks per week for women. 

During your period, you should avoid alcohol entirely because it disrupts the normal hormonal changes occurring in the body. IF you feel the need to drink during your period, consider drinking mocktails instead. Many women also find that drinking mocktails during their period helps them avoid the peer pressure of being forced to drink alcohol. 

The Connection Between Alcohol and Periods

Consuming alcohol during your period can have different effects based on the amount drunk and frequency, such as:

  • Irregular menstrual cycles
  • Period symptoms worsen
  • Periods become heavier
  • Periods to stop entirely
  • Spotting occurs after drinking outside periods
  • Excessive thickening of the uterine lining 
  • Frequent hormonal imbalances

The Connection Between Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and Periods

For women struggling with AUD, their menstrual cycles can be all over the place. One month, they may experience more intense symptoms with excessive bleeding. Another month, they miss their period entirely. Some women even experience amenorrhea (the absence of periods) for several months or longer. Additionally, alcohol addiction in women increases the risk of infertility.

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center for Help

If you have an unhealthy relationship with alcohol and are noticing its impacts on your periods and menstrual cycle, help is available in Los Angeles at Sanctuary Treatment Center. Our caring and supportive team provides comprehensive, personalized care plans in a comfortable setting to help you overcome your alcohol dependence and addiction. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation and take the first steps to a brighter future.

Published: 5/5/2025

Alcohol Poisoning vs Hangover

Difference Between Alcohol Poisoning vs Hangover

Written by Chandru on . Posted in Alcohol.

When you drink a large amount of alcohol over a short period, like a night out on the town, you can feel its effects the next day. You might be experiencing a hangover, or you could be experiencing alcohol poisoning. Understanding the difference between alcohol poisoning vs. a hangover is important. In certain cases, alcohol poisoning requires immediate medical treatment. 

What Is a Hangover?

A hangover is a group of symptoms that occurs after consuming an excessive amount of alcohol, and its effects are wearing off. Depending on the amount drunk, some people could still be considered to be legally intoxicated, even the next day, while experiencing a hangover. 

Common Hangover Symptoms

Some of the more common symptoms of hangovers include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Dehydration
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Sensitivity to sound and light
  • Body aches and pains
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulties concentrating and focusing
  • A sensation like the room is spinning
  • Balance and coordination difficulties

Why Do Hangovers Happen?

Hangovers occur as a result of excessive drinking and from the effects it has on the body, such as:

  • Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic and causes the body to flush out fluids more quickly, leading to dehydration. 
  • Electrolyte imbalance: As a result of dehydration, the electrolytes become imbalanced and can cause hangover symptoms.
  • Blood sugar levels drop: As the body processes alcohol, it causes blood sugar levels to drop, which can cause dizziness and other hangover symptoms.
  • Consuming dark liquors: Dark liquors contain congeners, which can enhance the effects and symptoms of hangovers. 
  • Build-up of acetaldehyde: As the body processes alcohol, it releases acetaldehyde, which is toxic and causes headaches, nausea, and vomiting. 
  • Stomach irritation: Alcohol can irritate the stomach and contribute to nausea and vomiting. 
  • Inflammation: Some people experience an inflammatory response when drinking, which triggers specific hangover symptoms. 
  • Withdrawal: Alcohol forces the release of different neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, dopamine, and GABA. As alcohol levels drop, the brain tries to restore balance, causing withdrawal and related hangover symptoms. 
  • Sleep disturbances: While someone can initially pass out from drinking excessively, as alcohol wears off, it can make it difficult to remain asleep, which can cause fatigue and a general sense of weakness. 

What Is Alcohol Poisoning?

Alcohol poisoning occurs when someone drinks an excessive amount of alcohol in a short period. It often happens when someone binge drinks regularly, and there is more alcohol in the bloodstream than the body can process and handle. 

The BAC (blood alcohol content) continues to rise because the liver cannot process and remove alcohol from the body fast enough. As the BAC levels increase, the excess alcohol causes the depressant effects to become more pronounced. Consequently, if BAC levels increase significantly while the person continues to drink, it causes alcohol poisoning, which is life-threatening and requires immediate medical treatment. 

Common Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning

At BAC levels between 0.02% and 0.15%, the range of symptoms includes:

  • Lowered inhibitions
  • Feeling relaxed and euphoric
  • Impaired judgement
  • Slurred speech
  • Coordination impairments
  • Reduced reaction times
  • Slowed thinking
  • Mood changes
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

These symptoms can cause a hangover later. If drinking continues and BAC levels reach 0.30%, common symptoms will include:

  • Confusion
  • Blackouts
  • Vomiting
  • Drowsiness
  • Difficulties remaining conscious
  • Seizures

At BAC levels between 0.30% and 0.40% or higher, alcohol poisoning is occurring. People will usually lose consciousness at this point, and could vomit while passed out. The depressant effects of alcohol are heightened as well and could cause respiratory distress and failure. The skin can appear blue or pale and will feel cold as the body temperature drops. Some people will also slip into a coma. 

Key Differences Between Alcohol Poisoning vs. Hangover

It might not appear that there are many differences between alcohol poisoning vs. a hangover because they share similar symptoms. However, some key differences are:

  • Hangovers generally occur several hours after a night of heavy drinking and can last as long as 24 hours. 
  • Alcohol poisoning usually occurs in binge drinkers, heavy drinkers, and people with alcohol use disorder (AUD).
  • Alcohol poisoning can start with an hour or two of heavy drinking as BAC levels reach 0.30% or higher.
  • As a result, It can take up to three days, sometimes longer, to fully recover from alcohol poisoning.
  • Most people do not realize they have alcohol poisoning initially and believe it is a hangover. 
  • Alcohol poisoning requires immediate medical care, while people generally recover from hangovers with rest and hydration at home. 

How to Prevent Hangovers and Alcohol Poisoning

The most effective way to prevent hangovers and alcohol poisoning is not to drink alcohol. Moreover, if someone does choose to drink alcohol, then they should:

  • First, Drink in moderation
  • Next, only consume one drink every one to two hours
  • Drink water in between drinks to remain hydrated
  • Moreover, eat before drinking and while drinking
  • Importantly, Never mix alcohol with medications or other substances
  • Avoid binge drinking and drinking games
  • Avoid mixing and switching between different types of alcoholic beverages
  • Drink mocktails to avoid peer pressure

Find Help for Alcohol Addiction in Los Angeles Today

If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol use and addiction, Sanctuary Treatment Center in Los Angeles is here to help. To begin with, we provide a comfortable and caring environment. In addition, we offer comprehensive, personalized care plans that are tailored to your unique needs. Therefore, Contact us today to take the first steps to a brighter, alcohol-free future. 

Published: 4/30/2025

Man with a substance use disorder.

What Is a Substance Use Disorder?

Written by Chandru on . Posted in Disorder.

When someone uses alcohol or various substances on a regular basis, their usage can turn into a substance use disorder (SUD). SUDs can range from mild to moderate (dependence) to severe (addiction). SUD not only impacts the person using the substance but also their family and friends. When someone is ready for help with their SUD, help is available to help them quit safely and learn how to lead an active and productive substance-free life. 

What Is a Substance Use Disorder?

A substance use disorder is classified as a mental health disorder because of the effects substances have on the brain. When someone uses substances regularly, it forces the release of different neurotransmitters that flood the brain. The most common one is dopamine, a neurotransmitter that makes people feel good and can cause euphoria when an excessive amount is released. 

Substance use disorders range from mild to moderate to severe. The longer someone uses substances, the more likely they are to progress from one end of the spectrum to the other. To be formally diagnosed with a SUD, one must exhibit at least 2 of the 11 criteria in the DSM-5, which determines the type of SUD one has:

  • Mild SUD: 2-3 criteria symptoms
  • Moderate SUD: 4-5 criteria symptoms 
  • Severe SUD: 6 or more criteria symptoms

What Are the Types of Substance Use Disorders?

Some of the more common types of SUDs are:

  • Marijuana (cannabis) use disorder
  • Tobacco use disorder
  • Alcohol use disorder
  • Opioid use disorder
  • Cocaine use disorder
  • Meth use disorder
  • Heroin use disorder
  • Benzodiazpine use disorder 
  • Stimluant use disoder
  • Sedative use disorder
  • Hallucinogenic use disorder
  • Inhalant use disorder

Symptoms and Causes

Recognizing the signs of and causes of substance use disorders can help people determine when they should seek professional help. They can also help family and friends who are worried about their loved one.  

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder?

The symptoms of SUDs include the 11 criteria in the DSM-5: 

  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms
  • Inability to cut down or stop substance use, even when someone wants to
  • Continuing to use substances, despite any negative impacts on relationships
  • Taking larger amounts of substances or using them for longer periods to maintain their effects
  • Taking larger amounts of substances to experience the desired effects, as tolerance builds
  • Using substances repeatedly, despite any potential dangers
  • Developing cravings for the substance
  • Forgoing work, recreational, and social activities to use substances or because of their effects
  • Spending an excessive amount of time obtaining, using, or recovering from substance use
  • Neglecting personal responsibilities at home, school, or work
  • Continuing to use substances even when they have caused physical and mental health issues that are worsening

Other signs and symptoms of SUDs will vary based on the substance, but could include: 

  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Insomnia or excessive sleeping
  • Suspicious, secretive behaviors
  • Mood swings
  • Irritabilty
  • Hyperactivity or lethargy
  • Lack of personal hygiene
  • Cognitive impairments
  • Financial problems
  • Relationship problems
  • New circle of friends
  • Isolation and withdrawal from family and friends
  • Changes in physical appearance
  • Engaging in risky behaviors
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using
  • Possessing drug paraphernalia
  • Loss of interest in hobbies and activities

What Causes Substance Use Disorder?

The precise cause of SUD can vary based on the individual and could be related to:

  • Family history of substance use disorders or mental health disorders
  • Easy access to substances
  • Social (peer) pressure
  • Experimentation with the effects of various substances
  • Enhancing performance
  • Using substances when a tween or teen
  • Experiencing childhood trauma and neglect
  • Experiencing a traumatic experience and using substances to cope
  • Using substances for stress or anxiety release
  • Having a mental health disorder and using substances to cope with symptoms
  • Exposure to family conflict, violence, or abuse  
  • Seeing celebrities promoting substance use

Substance Use Disorder vs. Substance Use

People of use substance use disorder and substance use to mean the same thing. However, they do have different meanings. Substance use disorder is when someone meets at least 2 of the DSM-5 criteria and has a treatable mental health disorder. The most severe type of SUD is addiction. 

Substance use, also known as substance misuse, is using a substance in a manner in which it was not meant to be used, such as crushing up tablets and snorting them or mixing them with water to inject them. Substance use can also mean using a substance to the extent that it could potentially cause harm to a person or those around them. For example, drinking alcohol, getting drunk, and then driving a car. 

Substance Use Disorder: Complications

People with SUDs face different risks and complications from continued use, such as:

  • Overdose
  • Development of mental health disorders
  • Infections and sexually transmitted diseases
  • Blackouts and memory loss
  • Cancer
  • Kidney disease/kidney failure
  • Heart disease
  • Respiratory/long disease
  • Elevated risk of stroke
  • Liver damage/liver failure
  • Seizures
  • Brain damage
  • Brain development impairments

How Is Substance Use Disorder Treated?

SUDs are treated using a combination of evidence-based and holistic therapeutic modalities as part of a comprehensive treatment program, which could include:

These services are provided at different treatment care levels:

  • Detox: Detox is the first step to overcoming SUDs and allows a person to receive round-the-clock care and medical supervision as the substance is removed from their body and they go through withdrawal. 
  • Inpatient rehab: Residential rehab is for individuals with severe SUD, those without a stable home environment, or those who could be a harm to themselves or others. IT provides highly structured and intensive care with 24/7 monitoring.
  • Outpatient rehab: There are several different types of outpatient programs that allow people to receive treatment during the day, while returning home at night. These programs are ideal for people who can manage their symptoms outside treatment and who have a strong support network at home. 
  • Aftercare and alumni programs: Most people need ongoing support even after completing a rehab program. Aftercare treatment and alumni programs provide this support and help people to continue to develop their coping skills and reduce their risk of relapse. 

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center for Help Today

If you or a loved one has a substance use disorder, Sanctuary Treatment Center in Southern California provides comprehensive treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. Moreover, our caring and compassionate team is committed to supporting you every step of the way.

In addition, we provide a safe and nurturing environment where you can begin your recovery journey with confidence. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to guide you.Contact us today to learn more about our treatment programs or to start the admissions process to begin your path to a brighter, substance-free future.

Published: 4/29/2025

What Is Adderall Paranoia

What Is Adderall Paranoia?

Written by Chandru on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Adderall can be a life-changing medication for people who have ADHD and certain other conditions. But those who take too much of the drug may be at risk for an array of severe side effects, including psychosis and paranoia.

What Is Paranoia?

Before we address the question of what is Adderall paranoia, it can be helpful to review what the term “paranoia” means from a mental health perspective.

Paranoia is an unhealthy mindset that involves maladaptive thoughts such as misplaced suspicion, inability to trust, and unjustified fear that someone is plotting to harm you. This is a type of delusion, or a rigid belief that you cling to even in the absence of any credible evidence. 

Paranoia is sometimes (but by no means always) a symptom of a mental illness. Examples of mental health disorders that can cause paranoia include:

  • Schizophrenia
  • Schizoaffective disorder
  • Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
  • Delusional disorder
  • Paranoid personality disorder (PPD)

Other risk for factors for paranoia include:

  • Family history of mental illness
  • Personal history of untreated trauma
  • Exposure to overwhelming stress
  • Being bullied or harassed
  • Certain types of substance abuse

What to Know About Adderall 

Adderall is the brand name of a prescription medication that contains equal parts racemic amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Both of these ingredients are stimulants, which means that they increase activity throughout the central nervous system (CNS).

When a person takes Adderall, the drug boosts the amount of two neurotransmitters, or chemical messengers, in their system:

  • Dopamine, which is involved with functions such as mood, attention, arousal, learning, and memory
  • Norepinephrine, which plays a key role in the body’s “fight or flight” response and sleep/wake cycle

Adderall also causes smaller increases in serotonin, a neurotransmitter that influences mood, appetite, sexual desire, and sleep.

For someone with ADHD, increases in these neurotransmitters can have a calming effect, improving their ability to focus and concentrate while minimizing symptoms such as restlessness and distractibility.

Unfortunately, these effects have prompted many people – primarily college students and young professionals – to abuse the drug in an attempt to improve their cognitive performance. 

Can Adderall Cause Paranoia?

Even when a person uses Adderall as directed by their physician, they may experience certain adverse effects. When someone uses the drug without a prescription, their risk of unpleasant outcomes may be even greater. 

Common physical side effects of Adderall include:

  • Elevated heart rate
  • Pan in lower back
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Flu-like symptoms

Common psychological side effects include:

  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Depression

From a mental health perspective, one of the drug’s more concerning (but thankfully less common) side effects is psychosis, which can include a condition called Adderall paranoia.

Recently, researchers from McLean Hospital in Belmont, MA, reported that people who regularly take large amounts of Adderall have a particularly high risk of developing psychosis and paranoia. 

The McLean study, which appeared in The American Journal of Psychiatry in September 2024, determined that a person’s risk of psychosis may increase by 400% if they take at least 40mg of Adderall per day. 

Symptoms of Adderall Paranoia

Someone who has developed Adderall paranoia may exhibit signs such as:

  • Being overly sensitive, defensive, and/or argumentative 
  • Taking offense at even the slightest perceived criticism
  • Inability to compromise
  • Holding long-term grudges
  • Finding it difficult or impossible to relax
  • Indecisiveness due to fear of making the wrong choice
  • Hypervigilance, or a heightened sense of alertness due to the mistaken belief of being constantly in danger
  • Social withdrawal and isolation

Paranoia is just one of three types of symptoms that a person may experience when they develop Adderall psychosis. The other two are:

  • Hallucinations, which can include seeing, hearing, or otherwise perceiving things that do not actually exist
  • Delusions, which are rigidly held beliefs that are easily disproven or that have no basis in reality, such as claiming they have magical powers or are being unfairly persecuted

What to Do If a Loved One is Experiencing Adderall Paranoia

Understanding the answer to the question, “What is Adderall paranoia?” can help you identify when someone that you care about is in crisis. Recognizing the problem is an important step, but it’s just one part of what could be a long process. 

If you’re not a mental health expert, what can you realistically do to help a friend or family member? First, you need to acknowledge that you cannot cure your loved one – but you can play a vital role in connecting them with the care they need. 

Other steps you can take include:

  • Educate yourself about Adderall paranoia (which, if you’re reading this post, you’ve already begun to do). The more you know about what your loved one is experiencing, the better prepared you’ll be to offer meaningful support.
  • Explore treatment options. There’s no single “perfect” way to treat Adderall paranoia, so you’ll want to focus on finding the programs and services that best align with your loved one’s needs and goals.
  • Talk to your loved one. Perhaps most importantly, listen to them. This conversation should be an actual discussion, not a lecture or an ultimatum. Express your concerns, reiterate your support, and talk about treatment. 
  • Keep the lines of communication open. It may take multiple conversations before your loved one is ready to get help.
  • Don’t go it alone. Recruit a small group of close friends or trusted family members to help you. You don’t want your loved one to feel like you’re ganging up on them, but you do want to demonstrate that you’re not the only one who truly cares about them.
  • Get help for yourself. If you are close to someone who has been exhibiting signs of Adderall paranoia, you’ve been affected, too. Talking to a therapist or counselor can help you process your experiences and ensure that you’re not neglecting your own needs.

Treating Adderall Paranoia

As alluded to in the previous section, effective treatment for Adderall paranoia can look quite different from one person to the next. Factors that can influence which type of treatment is ideal for a specific person can include:

  • Their age and gender
  • Their treatment history
  • The nature and severity of their symptoms
  • If they have any co-occurring mental or behavioral health concerns
  • The effectiveness of their personal support network

With these caveats in mind, the range of options for treating Adderall paranoia includes:

  • Detoxification (detox)
  • Inpatient rehab
  • Outpatient programming
  • Medication management services
  • Individual, group, and family therapy
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Dialectical behavior therapy
  • Psychoeducation sessions
  • EMDR and other trauma-focused services
  • Holistic therapies

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center for Help

Sanctuary Treatment Center offers comprehensive, personalized care for adults who have been exhibiting symptoms of Adderall paranoia and other mental health challenges. We also provide dual diagnosis programming for those who have both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder (addiction).

Our treatment center in Los Angeles, CA, is a safe and supportive place where you will be cared for by a team of skilled and compassionate professionals. With our help and a concerted effort on your part, you can take substantial strides toward a much healthier and more hopeful future.

To learn more or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Contact page or call us today. 

Published: 4/4/2025

The Dangers of Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) Abuse

Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) Abuse

Written by Chandru on . Posted in Addiction.

Nitrous oxide is a sedative used by health professionals and the food service industry. When used in medical settings, it blocks pain receptors in the central nervous system and causes patients to relax. In the food service industry, it is used to rapidly pickle vegetables, for craft cocktails, in whipped cream, and to infuse oils with flavors.  However, due to its effects, some people misuse this colorless, non-flammable gas. Regular abuse of nitrous oxide can lead to dependence and addiction. 

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is a fast-acting gas with a sweet smell and taste. It is called laughing gas because of some of its effects. While it is a sedative and central nervous system depressant, it is also considered a dissociative drug. Dissociative drugs can make people feel detached or separated from their bodies or experience hallucinations. 

It is one of the most widely used sedatives in the healthcare industry due to its fast-acting effects, which last only a short time. Dentists and doctors use it to help sedate people for minor procedures that require only a short time to complete. 

Why Do People Abuse Nitrous Oxide?

People abuse nitrous oxide due to the effects they experience when inhaling the gas. These effects include:

  • Euphoria
  • Calmness
  • Relaxation
  • Happy
  • Giggly
  • Light-headed
  • Heaviness
  • Dizziness
  • Tingling sensations in the arms and legs

Is Nitrous Oxide Addictive?

Nitrous oxide is a highly addictive substance, and regular use will lead to addiction. The brain remembers the pleasurable effects experienced while under the effects of laughing gas. So, it develops a craving for the substance and encourages future use. If someone continues to give in to their cravings and continues to use nitrous oxide, they will eventually become dependent on it. 

As they do, they will also experience tolerance to the substance, where they will have to use higher amounts of the gas to achieve the desired effects. Eventually, they may become addicted to the gas and struggle to function without its effects.

Side Effects of Inhaling Nitrous Oxide

Usually, people inhale nitrous oxide from a balloon that is filled with the gas from a capsule or large cylinders. Inhaling the gas directly from a capsule or large cylinder can cause serious damage to the lungs. Other potential short-term side effects people can experience include:

  • Headaches
  • Agitation
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Low blood pressure
  • Fainting
  • Nere damage
  • Heart attack
  • Hypoxia

Long-term nitrous oxide abuse can cause these side effects:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Memory loss/blackouts
  • Numbness
  • Weakened immune system
  • Muscle spasms
  • Psychosis
  • Hallucinations
  • Tinnitus

How Long Does Laughing Gas Last?

The effects of laughing gas usually begin to be felt within two to three minutes of inhaling it. When used in a medical setting, the effects last for however long the person is administered the gas. Once a person stops inhaling the gas, the body clears nitrous oxide within five to ten minutes, restoring a normal feeling. All effects typically wear off in about half an hour. 

Recreational use of nitrous oxide affects the duration of its effects based on the dosage. A small dose may last between five and ten minutes. However, inhaling multiple doses or a large dosage could result in effects lasting between 30 and 45 minutes. 

What Are the Risks of Using Nitrous Oxide Recreationally?

Using nitrous oxide recreationally and regularly does have its risks. Frequent or excessive use of the gas can cause low oxygen levels, which can cause dizziness initially. As oxygen levels drop lower, it can cause unconsciousness and, in extreme cases, respiratory failure and death. 

Another risk associated with the regular use of laughing gas is nerve damage. The substance depletes vitamin B12, which is responsible for red blood cell production, nervous system functions, and immune system support. As the vitamin depletes, it causes tingling sensations in the arms and legs. Some might view this as pleasurable, but it can lead to long-term neurological damage. 

There are also psychological risks of abusing nitrous oxide. The gas causes changes in the brain and central nervous system, causing the body to become reliant on it. When someone attempts to cut down or stop using the gas, the body goes into withdrawal as it attempts to function without the gas. 

Additionally, those addicted to nitrous oxide can engage in risky behaviors and impaired decision-making. Some people will inhale any substance from non-medical containers, believing it is nitrous oxide. Doing so not only increases the risk of lung damage but also exposure to other substances, chemicals, and contaminants, which could cause serious health problems, accidental overdose, or even death. For example, Someone could add a small amount of fentanyl to a balloon before filling it with nitrous oxide.

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center for Help With Addiction

Are you struggling with nitrous oxide addiction and want help to quit safely? Reaching out for help is the start of your recovery journey. At Sanctuary Treatment Center, our caring and compassionate team is here to support and guide you as you overcome your substance addiction. We provide comprehensive, evidence-based and holistic therapeutic modalities tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today to start your path to a brighter, nitrous oxide-free future.

Published: 3/27/2025

Guide About Crack Cocaine Addiction

Understanding Crack Cocaine Addiction

Written by Chandru on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Crack cocaine Addiction doesn’t dominate the headlines the way it did in the 1980s, but the drug continues to inflict substantial harm on individuals and families throughout the United States.

History of Crack Cocaine

Humans have been using cocoa leaves for their stimulating properties since at least the 1400s, though scientists did not isolate the primary psychoactive substance in these leaves (cocaine) until the 1860s. 

Following this development, cocaine began to be used for many purposes, including as a painkiller/headache reliever, as a medication to treat tuberculosis, and even as an ingredient in the original recipe for Coca-Cola soft drink.

Cocaine became illegal in the U.S. in 1914, though some people continued to use it illicitly for recreational purposes. The drug saw a significant resurgence in the 1970s, which was followed by the “crack epidemic” in the 1980s.

Crack could be manufactured more cheaply than powder cocaine, which meant that it could be sold for a much lower price on the street. The affordability of the drug, combined with the intense high it produced, soon made it an extremely popular substance in major cities throughout the nation.

Signs of Crack Cocaine Addiction

One of the reasons why crack is such a dangerous substance is that a person can become addicted to it after only using the drug a few times. 

If you suspect that someone in your life has been using crack, being able to recognize the signs may allow you to intervene before this self-defeating behavior turns into an addiction. 

Common signs of crack use include:

  • Dilated (expanded) pupils
  • Rapid breathing
  • Significant boost in energy
  • Restlessness
  • Agitation and irritability
  • Erratic behaviors
  • Dramatic mood swings
  • Burns on lips and fingers

When a person’s crack use progresses to an addiction, they may exhibit symptoms such as:

  • Spending significant amounts of time seeking, using, and recovering from the effects of crack cocaine
  • Being unable to stop using crack once they have begun
  • Becoming agitated or otherwise upset when unable to acquire and use crack
  • Unintentionally losing a significant amount of weight
  • Failing to meet their personal or work-related responsibilities
  • Lying to loved ones about how they have been spending their time
  • Continuing to use crack cocaine even after they have experienced physical, psychological, social, or legal problems as a result of their prior use of the drug
  • Having unexplained financial issues
  • Undergoing a dramatic change in personality and behaviors
  • Ignoring their appearance, grooming, and hygiene

Crack Cocaine Side Effects

Smoking crack can expose a person to substantial physical and psychological harm. People who use the drug on a regular basis have the greatest risk of these negative outcomes, but using crack even once can be extremely dangerous, and potentially fatal.

The side effects of using crack cocaine can include:

  • High blood pressure 
  • Abnormal heart rate
  • Heart failure
  • Stroke
  • Seizure
  • Liver damage
  • Kidney failure
  • Malnutrition
  • Respiratory problems
  • Extreme tooth decay
  • Paranoia
  • Psychosis
  • Overdose
  • Death

Is Crack More Addictive Than Cocaine?

Crack cocaine and powder cocaine are both highly addictive substances. Is one more dangerous or more addictive than the other?

While many sources identify crack as the more addictive substance, the truth is that there’s no substantial difference between the two.

Why, then, is crack so commonly cited as being more dangerous? This has less to do with any differences between the drugs themselves, and more to do with how they are consumed.

Why Is Crack So Addictive?

The most common way to use powder cocaine is to inhale it through your nose. Crack cocaine is typically used by heating the rocks and inhaling the flames.

When a person snorts powder cocaine, the drug must pass through several membranes before it is absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to the brain. When someone smokes crack, the drug can quickly pass from the lungs to the bloodstream to the brain. This causes a more intense high, a larger buildup of dopamine throughout the central nervous system, and a greater likelihood of becoming addicted.

Again, it is the method of ingestion (smoking vs. snorting) and not the chemical makeup of the drugs that cause these differences. If someone smokes or freebases powder cocaine – or dissolves it in a solution and injects it directly into their bloodstream – their risk of addiction would be the same as if they were smoking crack.

Crack Cocaine Overdose

Overdose occurs when a person ingests more of a substance than their body can safely metabolize. In 2022 alone, more than 27,000 people in the U.S. died from overdoses involving powder or crack cocaine.

Signs of a Crack Cocaine Overdose

Someone who exhibits the following signs after using crack cocaine may have overdosed and should receive immediate medical attention:

  • Confusion and disorientation
  • Hallucinations
  • Impaired coordination and muscle control
  • Extreme rise in body temperature
  • Excessive perspiration
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Seizure
  • Loss of consciousness

If you are with someone who has overdosed on crack cocaine, call 911 immediately, then stay with them until help arrives.

Crack Cocaine Addiction Treatment

Treatment for crack cocaine addiction may involve one or more of the following levels of care:

  • Detox: If intense withdrawal symptoms have been preventing you from ending your use of crack cocaine, detox may be the ideal place to begin treatment. Detox is a short-term program that offers medical and therapeutic support to help you get through withdrawal safely and as comfortably as possible.
  • Inpatient rehab: When you are in an inpatient rehab program, you will live at the center where you are receiving treatment. Common features of inpatient rehab for crack cocaine addiction include personalized daily schedules, multiple forms of psychotherapy. It also includes relapse prevention education and round-the-clock supervision.
  • Outpatient treatment: In an outpatient program, you will only need to be at the center when treatment is in session. This provides you with a structured connection to personalized clinical care. It also gives you the opportunity to put your developing recovery skills into practice in real-world situations during non-treatment hours.

Customized Treatment Elements for Crack Cocaine Addiction Recovery

Depending on your unique needs and the parameters of the program you’re in, your customized care for addiction to crack cocaine may include elements such as:

  • Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): This form of therapy can help you adapt your thoughts and behaviors to align with your values and goals. ACT can also help you eliminate negative thoughts, accept your emotions, and focus more fully on the present moment.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is based on the view that addictions and other psychological challenges are caused in part by negative thought patterns and maladaptive behaviors. During CBT sessions, you can begin to identify how these concerns have affected your life. You can then adopt healthier ways of thinking and acting.
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): This approach focuses on developing and enhancing your skills in the areas of mindfulness, distress tolerance. It also helps with emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
  • Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: EMDR can help you overcome psychological distress that is related to traumatic memories. If your struggles with addiction are related to untreated trauma, EMDR can be an essential component of your treatment plan.

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center for help with Crack Cocaine Addiction

Sanctuary Treatment Center offers a full continuum of customized care for adults who have become addicted to crack cocaine and other dangerous substances. 

Our drug rehab facility in Los Angeles, California, also serves patients whose struggles with addiction are accompanied by anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.

When you choose Sanctuary Treatment Center, a team of compassionate experts will work closely with you to identify the full scope of your needs. They will then develop a plan to help you build a healthier and more hopeful life in recovery.

To learn more about our programs and services, or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Contact page or call us today.

Published: 3/20/2025

Side Effects of Marijuana

Marijuana Side Effects and Risks

Written by Chandru on . Posted in Marijuana.

The expanded legalization of cannabis (marijuana) has caused some people to assume that is a harmless substance. While it is possible to use the drug safely, it is important to be aware of the many potential short- and long-term side effects of marijuana. 

What are the Side Effects of Marijuana?

The possible side effects of marijuana include both short- and long-term damage. Some types of weed-related harm can be reversed by reducing or ending your use of the drug, but others can have a permanent negative impact on your life.

Short-term side effects of marijuana

Common short-term side effects of marijuana include:

  • Altered perception of time and space
  • Delayed reaction time
  • Impaired coordination
  • Loss of inhibitions
  • Poor judgement
  • Changes in heart rate and blood pressure
  • Anxiety and paranoia
  • Psychosis

Though these are short-term effects of marijuana, they can still have a long-term effect on a person’s health and well-being. 

For example, the combination of poor judgement, impaired coordination, delayed reactions, and altered perception can lead to injuries via slips, falls, and automobile accidents.

Paranoia and psychosis can also cause people to engage in dangerous behaviors, while frequent changes in heart rate and blood pressure can contribute to myriad health concerns.

Long-term side effects of marijuana

A person’s risk of incurring extensive harm from cannabis can be influenced by factors such as their age, how often they use the drug, how much they typically use, and if they have any co-occurring medical or mental health concerns. 

The possible long-term effects of marijuana use:

Addiction:

Let’s get this one out of the way right up front. Contrary to what you may have heard or read elsewhere, it is possible to become addicted to marijuana. Cannabis doesn’t present the same risk of addiction that substances like heroin, cocaine, and benzodiazepines do – but a lower risk of addiction is not the same as no risk at all.

Cognitive limitations:

A June 2021 study in the journal JAMA Psychiatry found that teens who use marijuana have an increased risk of abnormal brain development, including a thinning of the prefrontal cortex. This area of the brain plays a vital role in several complex cognitive functions, including planning, problem-solving, emotion regulation, setting goals, and adapting behaviors based on social cues.

Respiratory problems:

According to the American Lung Association, the potential long-term  side effects of smoking marijuana include respiratory infections, thickening of the airway, and chronic bronchitis. Also, a study from the University of Michigan determined that vaping marijuana can be more dangerous to an adolescent’s lungs than smoking tobacco or vaping nicotine.

Mental health concerns:

A May 2024 study in the journal Psychological Medicine reported that adolescents ages 12-19 who use cannabis are 11 times more likely to develop a psychotic disorder than are individuals in the same age range who don’t use the drug. For some people, marijuana use can also exacerbate the symptoms of anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, and other mental illnesses.

Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome:

Also known as cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome or CHS, this condition causes recurring abdominal pain, appetite loss, persistent nausea, and repeated episodes of intense vomiting. Risk of CHS is greatest among people who have a long history of heavy cannabis use, and it is not a treatable condition. Once a person develops CHS, the only way to avoid symptoms is to avoid marijuana.

State governments regulate cannabis production in the U.S., so one state may allow pesticides and contaminants that another bans. Even in states that ban certain contaminants, authorities may enforce the laws laxly. For example, a recent investigation by LA Times reporters found 79 toxic chemicals in legal weed samples that were tested by an independent lab.

Fetal damage:

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that using cannabis while pregnant has been linked with low birth weight and developmental concerns in newborns. People who smoke or vape cannabis while pregnant may also expose their fetus to various toxic substances.

The best way to avoid long-term damage from marijuana use is to not start using the drug in the first place – especially if you are an adolescent or teen. If you have already begun to use cannabis and are having trouble reducing or ending your use, professional treatment may be the best option.

The path to lifelong recovery from compulsive marijuana use can look quite different from one person to the next. This is whyit is so important to find a provider who will develop a customized course of treatment that aligns with your needs, goals, and expectations.

Begin Treatment for Marijuana Addiction at Sanctuary Treatment Center Today

If you are concerned about the short- and long-term effects of marijuana use, but you’re unable to stop using the drug, Sanctuary Treatment Center is here to help. We offer personalized addiction treatment services, as well as dual diagnosis programming for patients who have also been living with anxiety, depression, or other co-occurring mental health concerns.

When you choose our intimate, comfortable rehab facility in Los Angeles, CA, you will have the opportunity to work in close collaboration with a small team of skilled and experienced professionals. 

Treatment options at our center include detoxification (detox), inpatient rehab, and outpatient programming. Our team can assess the full scope of your needs, then develop the customized plan that will put you on the path toward a healthier life in recovery.

To learn more about our programs and services, or to schedule a free consultation, please visit our Contact page or call us today.

Published: 3/13/2025

woman looking at wine glass as a high functioning alcoholic

What is a Functioning Alcoholic? Signs of High-Functioning Alcoholism 

Written by Chandru on . Posted in Alcoholism.

They pay their bills on time, show up to work every day, and otherwise seem to be living a productive, satisfying life. They also find it impossible to get through the day without drinking. The life of a high-functioning alcoholic is often characterized by a deep disconnect between outward appearances and inner torment. 

What Is a High-Functioning Alcoholic​?

A high-functioning alcoholic is someone who can keep up the appearance of success or at least stability even though they are addicted to alcohol. They may appear to be in good health, perform well at work, and maintain satisfying relationships. 

Unfortunately, alcohol use disorder (alcoholism) is a chronic, progressive disease. This means that people who don’t get help for this condition are likely to experience more severe symptoms over time. Eventually, even someone who seems to be functioning at a high level may find it impossible to hold off the devastating effects of untreated alcohol addiction.

Signs of a High-Functioning Alcoholic​

Could you be a high-functioning alcoholic and not even realize it? Surprisingly, it’s possible to be living with this condition without realizing it. 

First, please note that answering an online questionnaire or reviewing the signs of high-functioning alcoholism can’t provide definitive proof that you either do or don’t have a problem. In other words, there’s no substitute for being assessed by a doctor or another qualified expert. 

If you’re not sure if it’s time to schedule an assessment, reviewing the following 10 potential high-functioning alcoholic signs may help you make up your mind:

  1. You have strong cravings for alcohol.
  2. You often find yourself thinking about when you can get your next drink.
  3. You often have a drink in the morning before work and/or during lunch.
  4. You use alcohol to reward yourself for personal, professional, or academic accomplishments.
  5. You use alcohol to cope with stress, pressure, and setbacks.
  6. You have lied to or otherwise deceived friends, family members, or colleagues about the amount and frequency of your drinking.
  7. Before attending social events, you often “pregame” or drink alone.
  8. It’s not uncommon for you to feel guilty or ashamed about how much alcohol you consumed or how you behaved when you were intoxicated.
  9. You’ve developed tolerance, which means you can drink more than you used to without experiencing the disorienting effects of alcohol.
  10. You have tried to reduce your drinking or quit completely, but you have been unable to follow through on this effort.

If any or all of the signs above look familiar to you, it may be time to talk to a professional. Alcohol addiction is a treatable condition, and receiving an accurate diagnosis can be your first step toward the healthier future you deserve

Impact of High-Functioning Alcoholism on Life

Don’t let the “high-functioning” part of high-functioning alcoholism fool you. Yes, someone who has this condition may appear to have achieved more than someone with a substance use disorder might be expected to accomplish. But that doesn’t mean they haven’t been negatively impacted by their struggles with compulsive alcohol abuse.

A high-functioning alcoholic who doesn’t get proper care may have an elevated risk of myriad problematic outcomes, including:

  • Strained relationships with loved ones
  • Failing to perform to their full potential in school or at work
  • Job loss and long-term unemployment
  • Financial difficulties
  • Onset or worsening of co-occurring mental health concerns
  • Legal problems due to driving under the influence of alcohol
  • Injuries due to slips, falls, aggressive behaviors, and automobile accidents

Also, chronic heavy drinking as also been linked with a range of physical health concerns, such as:

  • Heart disease
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Overweight and obesity
  • Liver disease, including cirrhosis
  • Several types of cancer
  • Gastrointestinal distress
  • Impaired immune system
  • Stroke

Common Misconceptions About High-Functioning Alcoholics

Two common misconceptions about high-functioning alcoholics are that they’re doing fine and they don’t need help.

The “doing fine” misconception is likely based on outward appearances of success such as career progression and financial status. It’s important to remember that these appearances can be deceiving. High-functioning alcoholics often become quite adept at creating false impressions as a means of hiding their alcohol use and its effects. 

The outward appearance of success can also contribute to the misconception that high-functioning alcoholics don’t need help. As noted in the previous section, alcohol addiction can expose a person to substantial physical, psychological, and socioeconomic harm. The longer a person continues to live with untreated alcoholism, they greater their risk becomes of incurring severe, potentially irreversible damage.

Remember: Just because someone doesn’t seem to be in crisis at the moment, that doesn’t mean they don’t need help.

How to Tell if Someone Is a High-Functioning Alcoholic​

You can’t tell what’s going on in someone else’s mind, which means that you can’t be certain if another person has cravings for alcohol, feels shame about their drinking, or wants to quit.

Thus, if you suspect that someone you know is a high-functioning alcoholic, you can’t necessarily rely on the 10 signs listed earlier in this page. Instead, you may want to keep an eye out for behaviors and habits such as:

Behaviors and Habits of a High-Functioning Alcoholic

  • They can consume a considerable amount of alcohol without appearing to be intoxicated.
  • They drink in situations where it is clearly hazardous to do so, such as prior to driving or while operating a motor vehicle.
  • They claim they’re able to think more clearly or perform better once they’ve had a drink or two.
  • Their personality changes once they’ve had a few drinks to “loosen up.”
  • They undergo sudden changes in mood, attitude, and energy for no apparent reason – which can indicate that they’ve been drinking secretly.
  • They keep alcohol in inappropriate places, such as in their desk at work or in the glove box of their car.
  • They seem to be unable to enjoy social gatherings or have fun in other circumstances if they’re not able to drink.
  • They become defensive or dismissive when questioned about how much or how often they drink.

If someone in your life is a high-functioning alcoholic, your ideal response can vary depending on the nature of your relationship with them. However, If you are close to them, you may want to address the matter with them directly. If not, you may want to first discuss your concerns with someone who knows them better and may be a more appropriate person to speak with them first.

In either case, don’t ignore your suspicions. You can’t diagnose a person as a high-functioning alcoholic, nor can you cure them of this disorder. But you can play a vital role in connecting them with the care that can significantly improve their life.

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center for Help With High-Functioning Alcoholism

Sanctuary Treatment Center is a trusted provider of medical detox and residential rehab. We also offer outpatient programming for adults addicted to alcohol and other drugs.

To learn more about how we can help you or a loved one, or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Contact page or call us today.

We Take Insurance!

Sanctuary Treatment Center accepts most private PPO insurance plans, as well as some private HMO plans. Through private insurance plans, individuals and families can access high quality addiction treatment services. If you have questions regarding insurances, please give us a call.

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