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Addiction often follows identifiable stages that reflect changing behaviors, brain adaptations, and levels of risk. Knowing these stages helps families and clinicians choose the right response at the right time. This article walks through the common phases of substance use, explains how tolerance and dependence speed progression, highlights the signs that indicate a formal substance … Read more
Detoxing from alcohol means clearing alcohol from the body while stabilizing vital signs and managing withdrawal. 1 Faster stabilization is safest when guided by clinicians, not by trying to rush the process alone. This page explains how a medically supervised alcohol detox shortens dangerous withdrawal periods, which symptoms need immediate care, and realistic timelines for … Read more
Effective Strategies to Regain Control Are you dealing with intrusive thoughts? This guide will show you how to stop them with practical strategies and tips for immediate relief and long-term management. Key Takeaways Intrusive thoughts are common and can arise from stress or hormonal changes; they do not reflect one’s true desires. Effective strategies for … Read more
Can alcohol cause diabetes? While alcohol does not directly cause diabetes, excessive drinking can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In this post, we will discuss the connection between alcohol consumption and diabetes, including how alcohol affects blood glucose levels, insulin resistance, weight gain, and pancreatic function. Key Takeaways Excessive alcohol consumption is … Read more
Signs, Relief, and Treatment Options Opiate withdrawal symptoms can be tough to handle when you stop or cut down on opiates. Generally, symptoms like anxiety, muscle aches, and nausea can appear. This article will detail these symptoms, their severity, and how to manage them effectively. Key Takeaways Opiate withdrawal symptoms encompass a range of physical … Read more
A Guide to Recognizing and Managing Behaviors Do you ever wonder what sets compulsive behaviors apart from impulsive ones? When we compare compulsive vs impulsive behaviors, the key difference is that compulsive actions are driven by anxiety, while impulsive actions are driven by immediate desires. In this article, you’ll learn to identify and manage both … Read more
Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options Benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome happens when you reduce or stop taking benzodiazepines after developing dependence. It can cause anxiety, insomnia, and physical discomfort. Understanding these symptoms and how to manage them is crucial for a safe withdrawal. In this article, we will cover what to expect, factors that affect withdrawal severity, … Read more
Is cocaine addictive? Yes, cocaine is highly addictive due to its intense effects on the brain’s reward system. In this article, we will explore why cocaine is so addictive, its impacts on the brain and body, and the available treatment options. Key Takeaways Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant that affects brain chemistry, leading to … Read more
What to Expect and How to Cope Benzo withdrawal symptoms can be tough. This article will guide you through the common symptoms, their timeline, and coping tips. Key Takeaways Benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms can manifest both physically and psychologically, requiring gradual tapering to manage their severity effectively. Withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 24 hours after discontinuation … Read more
Definitions, Symptoms, and Treatment Options Addiction is a chronic disorder marked by compulsive substance use despite harmful effects. It impacts health, relationships, and daily functioning. This article outlines what is addiction, its symptoms, types, and treatments for addiction. Key Takeaways Addiction is a chronic disease characterized by compulsive substance use despite negative consequences, impacting health … Read more
Dr. Salah Alrakawi brings over 30 years of expertise in clinical medicine, academia, and administration. He is dual board-certified in Internal Medicine and Addiction Medicine, reflecting his deep commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care.
Currently serving as the Medical Director at Charles River Recovery, Dr. Alrakawi also holds roles as an Attending Physician in the Department of General Internal Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Atrius Health, and the Massachusetts Alcohol and Substance Abuse Center (MASAC). His multifaceted work underscores his dedication to advancing both the treatment of addiction and general internal medicine.
Dr. Alrakawi earned his medical degree from Damascus University and completed his Internal Medicine residency at Woodhull Medical Center. He is also a valued member of the teaching faculty at Harvard Medical School, where he helps shape the next generation of physicians.
Throughout his career, Dr. Alrakawi has been recognized with numerous awards and honors from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Lemuel Shattuck Hospital, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, highlighting his contributions to public health, education, and patient care.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. Alrakawi is an avid traveler who enjoys hiking, playing soccer, and immersing himself in diverse cultures around the world.
Steven Barry holds a B.A. in Economics from Bates College with extensive professional experience in both financial and municipal management. In his role as Director of Outreach, Steve leads the Charles River team in fostering relationships across the recovery community, local cities and towns, labor partners, and serving as a general resource for anyone seeking help.
Steve’s Charles River Why – “Anything I have ever done in my professional career has been rooted in helping people. There is no more direct correlate to that end than assisting people find their path to reclaim their life from the grips of addiction”.
