Dictionary

Uppers, or ups, is a slang term for a class of central nervous system (CNS) stimulant drugs that increase alertness, energy, and wakefulness. These drugs increase the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which are associated with increased mental and physical activity. Examples of uppers include cocaine, amphetamines (such as Adderall and methamphetamine), and prescription stimulants used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The term uppers are often used to describe the effects of these drugs, which can include increased heart rate, heightened mood, and improved concentration and focus. However, uppers can also have adverse side effects, such as increased anxiety, paranoia, and insomnia. Additionally, long-term use of uppers can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction. The non-medical use of uppers is illegal in many countries, including the United States.

Urge-Peak refers to the peak or highest point of an urge or craving to use drugs or engage in compulsive behaviors. It is part of the Urge-Peak Cycle, which describes a pattern of urges or cravings followed by the peak of drug or behavior effects and then a crash or low period. The urge peak is characterized by a strong desire to use drugs or engage in compulsive behaviors, often despite the potential negative consequences. Understanding the Urge-Peak can be important for individuals in addiction recovery, as recognizing and managing urges is a key component of sustained recovery.

The Urge-Peak Cycle is a concept in addiction theory that describes the cyclical pattern of urges or cravings to use drugs or engage in compulsive behaviors, followed by the peak of the drug or behavior’s effects and then a crash or low period in mood and energy, or overall well-being. This cycle can repeat itself repeatedly, leading to a spiral of increasingly problematic drug or behavioral use. The Urge-Peak Cycle is thought to play a role in the development and maintenance of an addiction. The cycle creates a self-reinforcing loop that can make it difficult for individuals to break free from compulsive behaviors or drug use. Understanding the Urge-Peak Cycle can be important for addiction recovery, as it provides a framework for recognizing the triggers and patterns of drug or behavioral use and for developing effective strategies for preventing or managing urges.

Urges refer to intense desires or cravings to use drugs or engage in compulsive behaviors, often despite the potential negative consequences. In the context of addiction, urges can be a persistent and overwhelming problem for those in recovery. They can arise without warning and be challenging to resist, especially if an individual has a long history of substance use or compulsive behaviors. Understanding and managing urge is a crucial component of addiction recovery. Many evidence-based approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, focus on developing coping skills and strategies to help individuals resist and manage urges.