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Evidence-led information · Clinical editorial standards
Evidence-led guides about substances, behaviors, treatment, recovery and family support.
Delirium tremens is a severe alcohol-withdrawal syndrome involving acute confusion and autonomic disturbance, often with agitation or hallucinations. It is a medical…
Alcohol detox is the medically planned management of withdrawal. It may occur at home with clinical supervision, as an outpatient, or in…
Alcohol withdrawal can begin within hours of a substantial reduction and may progress unpredictably. Severe complications include seizures and delirium tremens.
Crack is a smokable form of cocaine with rapid, short effects that can drive frequent redosing. Treatment addresses the same stimulant-use disorder…
Alcohol use disorder ranges from mild to severe and is defined by a pattern of impaired control and harm—not by a particular…
Relapse is a process, not only the moment of use. Earlier warning signs may include isolation, sleep disruption, romanticising past use, missed…
Effective addiction treatment is individualized, evidence-based, long enough to address the person’s needs, and connected to continuing care. Detoxification alone is rarely…
The most useful approach combines concern, clear observations, practical treatment options, boundaries, and emergency planning. Confrontation, humiliation, or arguing while the person…
A good addiction assessment examines what is used, how, why, and with what consequences, alongside withdrawal risk, physical health, mental health, medication,…
Addiction develops through an interaction of substance effects, genetics, development, mental health, trauma, environment, access, and learning. Risk is not destiny.
Substance use disorder can affect control, health, relationships, work, finances, and safety. No single sign proves a diagnosis, but clusters of change…
Tolerance, physical dependence, and addiction overlap but are not interchangeable. A person can be physically dependent on a prescribed medicine without compulsive…