Addiction & Mental Health Blog

Evidence-based articles on addiction recovery, mental health treatment, dual diagnosis, detox, and behavioral health — written and reviewed by AM Health Care's clinical team in Los Angeles.
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Person living with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders in Los Angeles
Date: Jun 09, 2026
Author: Stacey Pino

What Is Dual Diagnosis? Understanding Co-Occurring Mental Health and Addiction

What Is Dual Diagnosis? Understanding Co-Occurring Mental Health and Addiction By Stacey Pino | Reviewed by Dr. Siri Sat Khalsa, MD, Medical Director, AM Health Care · Updated June 9, 2026 Dual diagnosis means having both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder at the same time. If you’ve spent years in treatment […]
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Person learning how cocaine addiction and mental health connect in dual diagnosis treatment in Los Angeles
Date: Jun 02, 2026
Author: Stacey Pino

Cocaine Addiction and Mental Health: Understanding the Dual Diagnosis Connection

Cocaine Addiction and Mental Health: Understanding the Dual Diagnosis Connection By Stacey Pino | Reviewed by Dr. Siri Sat Khalsa, MD, Medical Director, AM Health Care · Updated June 2, 2026 Call 866-806-8142 In this article: How Cocaine Affects the Brain and Mood Cocaine and Mental Health: The Co-Occurring Disorders Most Commonly Seen Possible Signs […]
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Family seeking fentanyl addiction treatment in Los Angeles for a loved one
Date: Jun 02, 2026
Author: Stacey Pino

Fentanyl Addiction in Los Angeles: A Family Guide to Getting Help

Fentanyl Addiction in Los Angeles: A Family Guide to Getting Help By Stacey Pino | Reviewed by Dr. Siri Sat Khalsa, MD, Medical Director, AM Health Care · Updated June 2, 2026 Call 866-806-8142 In this article: What Is Fentanyl and Why Is It So Dangerous? How Fentanyl Use Disorder Develops Possible Signs of Fentanyl […]
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Person seeking depression treatment in Los Angeles for a co-occurring dual diagnosis
Date: May 27, 2026
Author: Stacey Pino

When Depression Won’t Lift: Understanding Depression and Addiction as a Dual Diagnosis

When Depression Won’t Lift: Understanding Depression and Addiction as a Dual Diagnosis By Stacey Pino | Reviewed by Dr. Siri Sat Khalsa, MD, Medical Director, AM Health Care · Updated June 1, 2026 Call 866-806-8142 In this article: What Is a Dual Diagnosis for Depression? Signs That Depression and Addiction Are Co-Occurring What Comes First—The […]
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Therapist comparing PHP and IOP levels of care with a client in Los Angeles
Date: May 27, 2026
Author: Stacey Pino

PHP vs. IOP: Which Level of Care Is Right for You?

PHP vs. IOP: Which Level of Care Is Right for You? By Stacey Pino, LCSW | Reviewed by Dr. Siri Sat Khalsa, MD, Medical Director, AM Health Care · Updated June 1, 2026 Call 866-806-8142 A partial hospitalization program (PHP) and an intensive outpatient program (IOP) are both structured forms of outpatient care for addiction […]
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Woman reflecting on depression and drinking, considering dual diagnosis treatment
Date: May 21, 2026
Author: Stacey Pino

Depression and Drinking: 9 Signs Your Alcohol Use Has Become a Dual Diagnosis Problem

Drinking and depression are clinically linked in a cycle that's more common than most people realize. Learn the 9 signs your alcohol use has become a dual diagnosis problem — and what integrated treatment can do about it.
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"how to rewire your brain from addiction through neuroplasticity and brain healing"
Date: Dec 15, 2025
Author: Markie Bryant

How to Rewire Your Brain From Addiction | A Neuroscience-Based Recovery Guide

Wondering how to rewire your brain from addiction? This in-depth guide explains how neuroplasticity, therapy, and healthy habits restore cognitive function, balance dopamine, and rebuild your brain’s reward system.
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how long does cocaine stay in your system?
Date: Nov 15, 2025
Author: Markie Bryant

How Long Does Cocaine Stay in Your System? Detection Times & Recovery Help

Wondering how long cocaine stays in your system? This in-depth guide breaks down detection times by test type—urine, blood, saliva, and hair—and explains the key factors that impact how long cocaine and its metabolites remain in the body. Whether you're facing a drug test or seeking support for addiction, this article has everything you need to know.
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Date: Oct 15, 2025
Author: Markie Bryant

How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System? | Fentanyl Detection Times Explained

If you or someone you care about is recovering from opioid use or facing a drug screen, you’ve probably asked, how long does fentanyl stay in your system? Knowing the fentanyl detection times for various tests—urine, blood, saliva, and hair—can offer clarity during a stressful or uncertain time. In this guide, we’ll break down everything from fentanyl’s half-life and drug metabolism to what affects detection and how addiction treatment can help.
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Person stepping into sunlight symbolizing hope and recovery after kratom withdrawal.
Date: Sep 30, 2025
Author: Markie Bryant

Kratom Withdrawal: Symptoms, Timeline, and Treatment Options

Kratom withdrawal can bring on challenging physical and psychological symptoms, from cravings and fatigue to anxiety and insomnia. In this guide, we break down what to expect, how withdrawal compares to opioids, and the safest treatment options available. Whether you or a loved one is struggling, recovery is possible with the right support.
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