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Welcome to the Elevate Experience! From addict to running her own rehab for over 20 years, CEO of Elevate Addiction Services, Angie Manson’s journey through recovery is an inspiring tale of overcoming adversity and finding redemption. She first experimented with drugs and alcohol at age 11 and by age 15 had dropped out of high school and was using hard drugs on a daily basis. After being arrested 7 times as a juvenile, and having an unsuccessful attempt at rehab, she continued to spiral further into addiction. As an adult, facing a 10 year prison sentence, she was forced back into rehab at the age of 20. Through the compassion of her judge and recovery mentors, Angie found her true passion and purpose for helping others like herself overcome their struggles with addiction and live an empowered life.
Episodes
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Wednesday Jan 21, 2026
Is Kava a safe, natural alcohol alternative, or a "Kava Trap" for those in recovery? In this episode, we dive into the hidden dangers of Kava that the sober community isn't talking about. While Kava is legal and marketed as a harmless herbal sedative, it acts on the same GABA receptors in the brain as alcohol and benzodiazepines (like Xanax and Klonopin), leading to potential addiction and severe physical health risks.
We discuss why Kava bars are becoming the new "sober" triggers, the reality of Kava-induced liver damage (Hepatitis and Cirrhosis), and the strange warning sign known as "Kava Dermopathy"—where your skin becomes scaly and yellow. If you or a loved one are using Kava to "stay sober," you need to watch this video to understand the long-term consequences on the brain and body.
What you will learn in this video:
- Why Kava is not "true sobriety."
- The link between Kava and Liver Failure/Jaundice.
- Warning signs for parents and families to look for.
- Why mixing Kava and Alcohol is a "tenfold" risk to your health.
- How to find true recovery without relying on a chemical crutch.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 – The "Kava Trap": Why it’s more dangerous than people realize
01:37 – Podcast Start: Why rehabs are struggling with Kava addiction
02:28 – What is Kava? Natural roots vs. medicinal side effects
03:16 – Kava in the Sober Community: A non-threatening way to "change your mindset"?
04:00 – The Red Flags: Why any mind-altering substance has a cost
04:39 – Kava and Liver Damage: The danger of mixing Kava with Alcohol
05:37 – Is it really sobriety? Kava’s effect on GABA receptors (Xanax & Alcohol)
07:10 – The lack of FDA regulation and "Black Box" warnings
08:02 – Severe Side Effects: Hepatitis, Cirrhosis, and Liver Failure
08:22 – What is Kava Dermopathy? (Yellow, scaly skin)
10:09 – Warning signs for families: Numbness, yellow eyes, and "Kava Bars"
11:37 – The "Natural" Myth: Why Heroin and Cocaine are also "Natural"
13:24 – Identifying the Behavior: Are you trading one addiction for another?
14:40 – Why Kava Bars can be as triggering as regular bars
15:49 – Grassroots Education: Protecting the next generation from the "Next Fentanyl"
HASHTAGS
#Kava #KavaTrap #Sobriety #AddictionRecovery #LiverHealth #KavaDangers #SoberCurious #RecoveryJourney #MentalHealth #DrugEducation #KavaBars #HealthWarning
KEYWORDS
Kava Trap, Kava side effects, Kava addiction, Kava vs Alcohol, Kava liver damage, Is Kava safe, Kava withdrawal symptoms, Kava Dermopathy, Kava bars and sobriety, sober alcohol alternatives, Kava and GABA receptors, natural anxiety relief risks, Kava root dangers, Elevate Recovery, liver failure from Kava.
Wednesday Jan 14, 2026
Wednesday Jan 14, 2026
Scromiting – screaming while vomiting – is a terrifying reality for some long-term weed users. It's the hallmark of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), a rising condition causing intense nausea, uncontrollable vomiting, severe abdominal pain, and relief only from endless hot showers or baths.
In this eye-opening podcast episode, experts reveal:
- Why modern high-potency marijuana (dabs, vapes, dispensary strains) flips anti-nausea effects into violent cycles
- The #1 red flag: Hours in hot showers to calm gut receptors
- 300% surge in cyclical vomiting ER visits – often misdiagnosed for years (up to 5+)
- Why women may be more prone, plus denial & psychological addiction traps
- The only proven fix: Complete abstinence from cannabis – symptoms can take months to reset
- Warning signs for families: Rapid weight loss, cyclical sickness, skyrocketing hot water bills
If you're dealing with mystery stomach issues, frequent ER trips for vomiting, or know someone stuck in this cycle – this could be CHS, not "just weed." It's NOT harmless – big highs bring big consequences.
Watch now for real stories, medical insights, and hope through awareness & professional support.
Struggling with weed/marijuana dependency or CHS symptoms? Reach out – it's not weakness, it's strength. Comment below or DM for help/resources. Our rehab/outpatient programs specialize in cannabis addiction recovery.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Intro Clips: Scromiting, Misdiagnosis & Hot Showers Red Flag
01:33 Podcast Starts: Welcome & Client Story – First Cases of CHS
02:31 What is Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome? Paradoxical Effect Explained
03:30 High-Potency Weed Today vs Past – Why Even Weekend Use Can Trigger It
05:09 ER Reality: Vomiting & Screaming – Misdiagnosis as Appendix or Other Issues
06:20 300% Increase in Cyclical Vomiting Visits – Why It Takes Years to Diagnose
08:15 Warning Signs: Hot Shower Habit, Cyclical Sickness, Rapid Weight Loss
10:23 More Common in Women? Denial & "Medicine" Trap with Modern Cannabis
13:20 Medical Community Lag – No Cure Except Quitting Cannabis
14:39 Time to Seek Help: Professional Intervention & Reset Process
15:49 Marijuana Addiction Real – Mental/Physical Dependency Like Alcohol
17:42 "It's Just Weed" Myth Busted – Reach Out for Support
Subscribe for more on addiction, recovery, cannabis truths & health warnings. Like & share if this helped someone you know!
#Scromiting #CHS #CannabinoidHyperemesisSyndrome #WeedVomiting #HotShowersWeed #MarijuanaAddiction #CannabisHyperemesis #QuitWeed #WeedWithdrawal #CannabisRecovery #AddictionAwareness #MarijuanaSideEffects #CHSsymptoms #VomitingFromWeed #HighPotencyWeed
KEYWORDS
scromiting, cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, CHS, weed vomiting, hot showers weed, cannabis hyperemesis, marijuana vomiting, CHS symptoms, hot baths cannabis, scromiting explained, weed side effects, cyclical vomiting, marijuana addiction, quit weed, cannabis recovery, high potency THC, ER vomiting weed, screaming vomiting, CHS hot showers, cannabinoid syndrome, weed hyperemesis, cannabis nausea relief, marijuana CHS, scromiting cure, hot shower relief weed, cannabis withdrawal, weed dependency, CHS warning signs, vomiting from weed, cannabinoid hyperemesis treatment
Wednesday Jan 07, 2026
Wednesday Jan 07, 2026
Is the secret to lasting sobriety found in your kitchen? In this episode, we dive deep into why the Keto Diet is being hailed as a "metabolic intervention" for addiction recovery.
We explore the groundbreaking research from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) that shows how switching from sugar to fat as a fuel source can significantly reduce withdrawal symptoms, stabilize brain chemistry, and stop the "sugar-addiction" cycle that leads many to relapse.
In this video, you’ll learn:
How ketones bypass damaged glucose pathways in the brain.
The role of GABA and Glutamate in stabilizing your mood during detox.
Why "low fat" diets might be sabotaging your sobriety.
Practical tips for avoiding the "Keto Flu" and staying consistent.
If you are struggling with alcohol cravings, sugar addiction, or the "sobriety weight gain" trap, this conversation offers a roadmap to healing your brain from the cellular level up.
Connect with us: https://elevaterehab.org
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 The Science of Keto for Addiction Recovery
01:46 Introduction: Keto as a Tool for Sobriety
02:38 What is Ketosis? (The Basics)
03:15 Why Keto is a "Metabolic Intervention"
04:26 Switching Fuel: Fat vs. Carbs
05:10 How Sugar Mimics Withdrawal
05:51 Why We Remove Sugar in Detox
07:44 NIAAA Research Findings
08:22 How Ketones Repair Brain Energy
09:40 Restoring the Brain's Brakes (GABA)
11:00 The Emotional Reward System
12:10 Reducing Neuro-inflammation
13:25 Good Fats vs. Fat-Free Myth
15:40 Recommended Healthy Fats
16:15 Avoiding the Keto Flu
18:15 Truth About Keto Supplements
19:30 Breaking the Sobriety/Weight Cycle
20:45 Hidden Carbs & Monitoring Intake
21:55 Keto Lifestyle vs. Diet
22:55 Metabolic Flexibility (80/20 Rule)
24:10 Nutrition as Mental Health Foundation
25:10 Final Advice: Staying Sober Through Diet
HASHTAGS
#KetoRecovery #SobrietyTips #AddictionRecovery #KetogenicDiet #AlcoholDetox #MetabolicHealth #SugarAddiction #MentalHealthMatters #ElevateRecovery
KEYWORDS
Primary Keywords: Keto for addiction recovery, alcohol withdrawal relief, how to stop alcohol cravings, ketogenic diet benefits, sugar addiction and sobriety, metabolic psychiatry, healing the brain after addiction, Keto flu symptoms, GABA for anxiety, neuro-inflammation and addiction, NIAAA keto study, intermittent fasting and recovery, healthy fats for brain health, how to get into ketosis fast.
Wednesday Jan 07, 2026
Wednesday Nov 26, 2025
Wednesday Nov 26, 2025
Struggling with addiction, anxiety, or holiday stress? Discover how the science of gratitude can rewire your brain, boost feel-good chemicals, and be your most powerful tool for sustainable recovery. In this episode of The Elevate Experience, we break down the neuroscience of gratitude and how it directly counters addiction, relieves stress, and builds a foundation for long-term sobriety.
We explore:
- The 3 key neurochemicals (Dopamine, Serotonin, Oxytocin) released by gratitude
- How gratitude directly counteracts the "negativity bias" and "reward deficiency" of addiction
- Practical "habit-stacking" techniques to build a daily gratitude practice
- Using gratitude as an instant tool to manage cravings and relapse triggers
- Why expressing gratitude to others creates a powerful "double oxytocin boost"
If you're feeling isolated, stressed, or trapped in negative thought patterns, this episode provides a science-backed, actionable path to a brighter mindset and a stronger recovery.
Ready to rewrite your story? You don't have to do it alone.
📞 Call our recovery experts now: 833-33-SOBER
🌐 Learn more about our program: https://www.elevaterehab.org
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CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 - Introduction: The Power of Gratitude
2:18 - Podcast Start: Welcome to The Elevate Experience
3:09 - What is the Science of Gratitude?
4:24 - The 3 Neurochemicals of Gratitude
5:43 - Gratitude vs. The Negativity Bias
7:15 - Oxytocin: The Bonding Hormone in Recovery
9:51 - Gratitude During the Holidays & Tough Times
11:30 - Shifting Focus: Gratitude for Sobriety & Inner Strength
13:35 - "Fake It Till You Make It" & Retraining Your Brain
14:53 - How Gratitude Fights Relapse, Resentment & Isolation
16:23 - Gratitude as a Stable Source of Reward
16:57 - 3 Practical Ways to Practice Gratitude
20:09 - "Habit Stacking" Your Gratitude Practice
21:08 - Using Gratitude for Instant Mood Changes
24:00 - Conclusion & A Message of Hope
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Keywords: gratitude and addiction, science of gratitude, rewire your brain, recovery tools, sobriety tips, mental health, dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, negativity bias, how to stay sober, relapse prevention, holiday stress recovery, mindfulness for addiction, elevate rehab, gratitude journal, what is gratitude, feel good chemicals, brain chemistry, addiction recovery podcast, long term sobriety, anxiety relief, isolation recovery
#Gratitude #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #MentalHealth #Neuroscience #RewireYourBrain #RecoveryPodcast #ElevateRehab #ElevateAddictionServices #Dopamine #Serotonin #Oxytocin #Mindfulness #RelapsePrevention #HolisticRecovery #Thankful #SoberLiving #RecoveryJourney #ScienceOfGratitude
Thursday Nov 20, 2025
Thursday Nov 20, 2025
The 12-Step model requires admitting you're "powerless," but what if that approach is actually triggering?
In this essential episode, we break down why SMART Recovery is a modern, science-based, and empowering alternative to AA that focuses on personal responsibility and forward-thinking goals—not reliving past "war stories."
SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training) aligns perfectly with Elevate Addiction Services' non-12-step philosophy. We discuss the major differences, why SMART meetings work, and how they provide the tools you need to manage thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to overcome addiction.
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TOPICS COVERED:
* Why the powerlessness concept and spiritual focus of AA can be a barrier.
* Why sharing "war stories" can be triggering for people early in recovery.
* How SMART uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and REBT principles.
* The structure of a SMART meeting (cross-talk and collaboration allowed).
* The SMART 4-Point Program (Motivation, Coping, Managing Thoughts, Balanced Life).
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ADDICTION HELP
Ready for an Empowerment-Based Recovery? Call our dedicated intake team 24/7 for confidential help and admissions: 833-33-SOBER
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LINKS TO LEARN MORE:
* What is SMART Recovery? Learn how it works: https://elevaterehab.org/experience/smart-recovery/
* Non-12-Step Alternatives to AA: https://elevaterehab.org/available-options-alcoholics-anonymous/
* Elevate's #1 Ranked Non-12-Step Program: https://elevaterehab.org/programs/inpatient/
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TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Intro & The Problem with Traditional Meetings
1:42 The Need for SMART Recovery (Self-Management & Recovery Training)
2:23 What is SMART Recovery? The Acronym Explained
3:37 How to Become a SMART Facilitator (Low Barrier to Entry)
4:48 The Importance of In-Person Meetings and Community
5:36 Major Difference #1: Powerlessness vs. Personal Responsibility
6:59 Major Difference #2: Spiritual Focus vs. Scientific/Secular (CBT/REBT)
8:57 Major Difference #3: War Stories vs. Forward-Looking Goals
10:27 SMART Meeting Format: Crosstalk, Collaboration, and Objectivity
15:20 The SMART 4-Point Program
18:11 Why Speaker Meetings Can Be Triggering for Some
21:13 Why Elevate Utilizes the SMART Model
23:17 How to Find a Local SMART Recovery Meeting
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HASHTAGS
#SMARTRecovery #AAAlternatives #Non12StepRehab #AddictionTreatment #Empowerment
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KEYWORDS
SMART Recovery, AA alternatives, non 12 step rehab, empowerment based recovery, self-management and recovery training, addiction is not a disease, 12 step vs SMART recovery, CBT for addiction, REBT for addiction, secular addiction recovery, scientific based rehab, forward thinking recovery, manage thoughts feelings behaviors, coping with urges, living a balanced life, non spiritual rehab, speaker meeting triggering, Elevate Addiction Services, addiction help
Thursday Nov 13, 2025
Wednesday Nov 05, 2025
Wednesday Nov 05, 2025
Is the 12-Step Disease Model holding you back? In this candid discussion, Elevate Addiction Services breaks down the philosophical and practical differences between traditional AA/NA programs and the modern Empowerment/Choice Model of recovery. Learn why the permanent "addict" label and the concept of "powerlessness" can be a barrier for many—especially the 75% of secular individuals who reject the spiritual requirements.
We discuss the fundamental shift from viewing addiction as a chronic relapsing disease to seeing it as a learned behavior rooted in trauma. Discover why Elevate focuses on self-responsibility, holistic health (mind & body), and skill acquisition to deliver lifelong sobriety.
Don't surrender your power. Learn how to take control of your recovery.
TIME STAMPS:
[00:00] Introduction: Why We Need a New Approach to Recovery
[01:54] Non-12 Step Model: A Program Differentiator
[02:20] Philosophical Differences with AA/NA
[03:51] Disease Model vs. Empowerment Model
[04:33] The Problem with the Permanent 'Addict' Label
[05:51] Addiction as a Learned Behavior & Choice Model
[07:04] Self-Created Condition: You Can Fix This
[09:26] The 28-Day Rehab Myth (Insurance-Driven)
[10:31] Spiritual Hurdle & Identity Conflict for Secular Clients
[15:06] Identifying Trauma as the Root Cause
[18:16] Why We Tackle Trauma First in Treatment
[20:07] Secular Alternatives: SMART Recovery & More
[21:53] The Power of Community & Collaborative Support
[25:51] Mindfulness: Finding Your Center in Crisis
[28:10] Emotions Are Not Bad: Working Through Feelings
Next Step: Verify Your Coverage Today! If you are looking for an in-network, non-12 step rehab that puts you in control, contact Elevate. Call 24/7: (831) 440-3568 Website: https://elevaterehab.org/
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR NON-12-STEP APPROACH: https://elevaterehab.org/experience/non-12-step/
#Non12Step #AAAlternative #AddictionRecovery #TraumaInformedCare #EmpowermentModel #SmartRecovery #HolisticHealth #ElevateExperience #Mindfulness #SoberLiving
KEYWORDS
Non-12 Step Recovery, AA Alternative, Non 12 Step Rehab, Empowerment Model, Disease Model Fails, Trauma Informed Addiction Treatment, Secular Recovery, SMART Recovery, Addiction Learned Behavior, Why 12 step doesn't work, Non-religious sobriety, Addiction Powerlessness, Dual Diagnosis Rehab, Holistic Addiction Treatment, Mindfulness in Recovery, Emotional Regulation Skills, Self-Responsibility Addiction
Thursday Oct 30, 2025
Thursday Oct 30, 2025
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? You’re not broken — and this isn’t forever.
In this honest, no-BS episode of The Elevate Experience, recovery experts reveal why 90% of people in treatment show depression or anxiety, how addiction disguises itself as mental illness, and — most importantly — simple, science-backed habits you can start today to take back control:
- Mindfulness proven to work like medication
- Exercise that grows new brain cells (in just 10 mins)
- Nutrition — stop the weekend crash ruining your week
- Journaling as free, private therapy
- Why checking in on the quiet ones saves lives
This is a warning sign — not a life sentence.
You can feel better. Start now.
NEED HELP NOW?
Struggling with addiction AND mental health? Get dual diagnosis treatment that works:
https://elevaterehab.org/programs/dual-diagnosis/
Call 24/7: 833-33-SOBER for same-day help or verify insurance FREE.
Our Website: www.elevaterehab.org
TIME STAMPS
0:00 Introduction: Why Mental Health Matters More Than Ever
1:32 – Welcome to The Elevate Experience
2:29 – Breaking the Silence: It’s Okay Not to Be Okay
3:31 – 90% of People in Recovery Show Depression or Anxiety
4:21 – Red Flags: When Normal Struggles Turn Serious
5:52 – The Quiet Ones Suffer Most – Check In
8:23 – Mindfulness 101: Start with 5 Minutes a Day
11:29 – Science: Mindfulness Prevents Relapse Like Meds
14:50 – Walking Meditation: Nature + Movement = Reset
16:20 – Exercise Grows New Brain Cells (Yes, Really)
19:36 – How Food Controls Your Mood (Gut-Brain Truth)
21:22 – Real Story: Weekend Junk Food = Monday Crash
26:43 – Journaling: Your Free, Private Therapist
30:36 – Stop Shame: Align Actions with Your Values
32:41 – Name Your Emotions (It Rewires Your Brain)
33:41 – Ditch the Scroll: Stop the Dopamine Crash
34:43 – Social Connection = Natural Antidepressant
36:00 – Early Help Wins: Reach Out Before Crisis
37:33 – You Can Heal – This Is NOT Forever
38:11 – Get Support at ElevateRehab.org
HASHTAGS
#MentalHealth #MentalHealthTips #Mindfulness #ExerciseForMentalHealth #NutritionAndMood #AnxietyRelief #DepressionHelp #SelfCare #MentalWellness #BreakTheStigma #ItsOkayNotToBeOkay #AddictionRecovery
KEYWORDS
dual diagnosis treatment, dual diagnosis rehab, addiction and mental health, co-occurring disorders, holistic dual diagnosis, elevate addiction services, 831-440-3568, same day admissions, insurance verified rehab
mental health tips, mindfulness meditation, exercise for mental health, nutrition and mood, anxiety relief, depression help, self care tips, break the stigma, its okay not to be okay, addiction recovery, walking meditation, gut brain connection, dopamine crash, journaling therapy, elevate experience podcast, mindfulness for beginners, exercise and depression, food and mood, social connection mental health, reach out for help, you can heal, mental wellness, mindfulness as effective as medication, exercise grows brain cells, weekend junk food crash, stop shame, name your emotions, limit scroll time, oxytocin vs dopamine, early intervention mental health
Wednesday Oct 22, 2025
Wednesday Oct 22, 2025
The signs of addiction are often misunderstood, subtle, or hidden—especially when casual use becomes a serious problem. This is one of the most-searched topics on the internet, and for good reason: families are looking for answers!
In this deep-dive episode, we break down the 7 major signs of addiction (based on the Elevate Addiction Services guide) across physical, behavioral, and emotional categories. We discuss the slippery slope from recreational use to full-blown addiction and give you the essential steps to take for yourself or a loved one today.
KEY TOPICS WE COVER:
- When does casual drinking or drug use cross the line into addiction?
- The behavioral signs of addiction: lying, making excuses, and losing reliability.
- Physical signs to watch for: weight change, inflammation, and pinpoint pupils (opiates).
- Emotional symptoms: extreme defensiveness, shame, and inability to manage small stressors.
- What to do next: inpatient vs. outpatient treatment options and finding support.
Don't wait—early intervention greatly improves recovery. You don't have to carry this burden alone.
NEED HELP NOW?
Contact Elevate Addiction Services immediately, or explore our comprehensive resources:
Call 24/7: 833-33-SOBER
Our Website: www.elevaterehab.org
Learn More About the 7 Signs: https://elevaterehab.org/7-signs-addiction/
Explore Treatment Options by Substance: https://elevaterehab.org/treatments/
HASHTAGS
#signsofaddiction #addictionrecovery #elevateaddictionservices #substanceabuse #isitalcoholism #addictionsymptoms #inpatientrehab
TIME STAMPS
0:00 Introduction: Why We Must Talk About the Signs of Addiction
1:08 Casual Use vs. Addiction: Where is the Line?
2:32 Behavioral Signs: Lying, Unpredictability, and Missing Appointments
4:02 Financial Signs: The Loss of Money and Needing to Borrow
4:37 Physical Signs: Weight Changes, Puffy/Bloated Look, and Odor
7:09 Emotional Signs: Defensiveness, Rage, and "Walking on Eggshells"
10:14 First Steps: What to Do If You See These Signs (For Yourself or Others)
13:54 Finding the Right Treatment: Inpatient vs. Outpatient Care
17:41 The Ripple Effect: How Addiction Harms Physical Health
19:56 Substance-Specific Signs (Depressants, Opiates, Stimulants, Marijuana)
27:56 The Slippery Slope of Alcohol Use
29:08 Closing Message: The First Step Towards Change
KEYWORDS
signs of addiction, addiction signs, what are the signs of addiction, elevate addiction services, elevate rehab, casual use vs addiction, behavioral signs of addiction, physical signs of addiction, emotional signs of addiction, alcohol addiction signs, opiate signs, fentanyl signs, stimulant signs, marijuana signs, addiction help, addiction recovery, inpatient vs outpatient, how to tell if someone is an addict, recovery resources, loved one addiction, substance abuse, when to seek help for addiction, drug abuse symptoms, am I an addict, 7 signs of addiction, addiction treatment