Author name: Dr. Beth Dunlap

Licensed Physician and SurgeonDr. Beth Dunlap, a board-certified addiction medicine and family medicine physician, and is the medical director at Northern Illinois Recovery Center. She is responsible for overseeing all the integrated medical services at both campuses. Beth completed medical school, residency, and fellowship at Northwestern University, where she continues to serve on the faculty as a member of the Department of Family and Community Medicine. She has extensive experience in addiction medicine at all levels of care, and her clinical interests include integrated primary care and addiction medicine, harm reduction, and medication-assisted treatment.

group of friends joyfully jumping outdoors, learning about substance use disorder

What Is Substance Use Disorder?

Addiction Treatment, Alcohol Addiction Treatment, Drug Addiction Treatment, Substance Abuse / By
When discussing substance use disorder, substances like alcohol, hallucinogens, and opioids have separate classification descriptions. The use of these substances causes health problems or issues at home, school, or work. In this guide, we're diving deeper into this definition, as well as how to tell when it's time to receive substance use disorder treatment. Defining

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spilled pills from a prescription bottle symbolizing commonly abused drugs

Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs

Addiction Treatment, Drug Addiction Treatment, Drug Rehab Centers / By
The most commonly abused medications include anxiety prescriptions, pain relievers, and stimulants used for treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Ease of access is one of the contributing factors regarding prescription drug addiction. In this guide, we're outlining more about commonly abused prescription drugs, and if you or a family member should attend a prescription drug

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celebrating mental health awareness and growth

How to Celebrate World Mental Health Day

Addiction Treatment, Mental Health, Recovery, Triggers / By
Many people continue to suffer from a mental health disorder. Yet, most societies across the US and the world continue to neglect issues surrounding mental health. The number of people who can access mental health treatment services is still low. Mental health day seeks to address some of the issues around mental well-being. World mental

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hands joined over documents during a meeting highlighting national depression awareness week

Importance of National Depression Awareness Week

Addiction Treatment, Dual Diagnosis, Mental Health, Triggers / By
The first week of May is special for mental health enthusiasts. It is special because the entire week is for creating awareness about depression. Depression is a common mental health disorder. It affects people in their millions, yet most individuals aren't conscious of the issues around depression. Our society still harbors attitudes that promote shame

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patient showing signs of painkiller addiction receiving counseling from therapist

Painkiller Addiction Signs

Addiction Treatment, Drug Addiction Treatment, Substance Abuse / By
Due to the stigma often associated with medication, painkiller addiction can be hidden in plain sight, making it difficult to diagnose or identify. The person using the painkillers may not realize how far their addiction has progressed. Family or friends may be unaware of painkiller addiction signs that can plague the user’s life. Understanding and

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a teen attending an individual therapy

What Are the Latest Teen Drug Abuse Statistics?

Addiction Treatment, Drug Addiction Treatment, Drug Information, Drug Rehab Centers / By
As with everything else during adolescence, teenagers experiment with all substances, including drugs and alcohol. The latest teen drug abuse statistics indicate that the trend is worsening as experimentation spreads from illicit drugs into prescription medication and common household chemicals. Thus, it's important to understand what substance abuse treatment options are available. Addiction treatment centers

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two women discussing whether Illinois alcohol rehab or home rehab is better

Illinois Alcohol Rehab vs. Home Rehab: Which is Better?

Addiction Treatment, Alcohol Addiction, Alcohol Addiction Treatment / By
If you are thinking about quitting your alcohol addiction, then you have two main choices: professional Illinois alcohol rehab or home rehab. The type of rehab you choose ultimately depends on the extent and severity of your addiction. It also depends on your recovery goals and how committed you are to stop drinking. As you

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addiction with sleeping pills

Are Sleeping Pills Addictive? Read This to Find Out

Addiction Treatment, Drug Addiction Treatment, Drug Information, Drug Rehab Centers / By
People who have conditions like insomnia are often prescribed sleeping pills, medications to assist them in falling or staying asleep. Yet, these medications can be misused, leading to an inadvertent dependency. In some cases, individuals intentionally abuse their prescription medication leading to a dependency or addiction. Individuals need professional support to address, heal, and recover

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What You Should Know About Self-Medicating With Alcohol

Addiction Treatment, Alcohol Addiction Treatment, Recovery, Rehab / By
Overcoming addiction can be challenging for many people, which can be worse for those self-medicating with alcohol. If you find yourself in such a situation, it’s critical to seek the right treatment at a Northern Illinois rehab center to avoid severe consequences. Some people may want to quit drinking alcohol, but relapse after going through

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two individuals in counseling discussing childhood trauma and addiction

The Relationship Between Childhood Trauma and Addiction

Addiction Treatment, Alcohol Addiction Treatment, Drug Addiction Treatment, Mental Health, PTSD / By
According to a report by the National Institute of Health (NIH), at least a third of teenagers who have been neglected or abused may develop a substance abuse disorder before they reach 18 years. Childhood trauma and addiction can cause a range of problems to the victim, so seek professional help by enrolling in a

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