October is National Substance Abuse Prevention Month – the ideal time to raise awareness about the complex reasons people begin using drugs and alcohol. Contrary to stereotypes, drug abuse is not a matter of personal weakness. People of all ages, backgrounds and experiences can become dependent on substances. At...
Many people associate alcohol with celebration, socializing or stress relief – but excessive or long-term drinking can have serious, even life-threatening, consequences. It can damage your body, brain and internal organs, contributing to a wide range of physical and psychological illnesses. If you rely on alcohol to relax or cope...
MDMA, commonly known as molly or ecstasy, is a psychoactive drug that affects the brain in powerful ways. Its combination of stimulant and hallucinogenic effects has made it a fixture of the party scene. However, repeated use comes with serious risks, including the potential for long-term memory impairment and...
Chronic pain is a prevalent health concern among older adults, often due to long-term conditions like arthritis and cancer. Pain can make everyday life difficult – and often leads to emotional distress, isolation and even dependence on pain medication. But there’s hope beyond prescriptions. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a powerful,...
Losing a spouse is one of the most profound and life-altering experiences a person can endure. Along with the emotional devastation, many widows and widowers report feeling mentally foggy, distracted or unable to concentrate – a condition often referred to as widow’s brain or widow fog. Though it’s not...
International Overdose Awareness Day on Aug. 31 is a solemn reminder of the lives lost to drug overdoses and a call to action for prevention, education and support. Overdoses can happen to anyone, regardless of age, background or intention. Knowing what to do in a critical moment can save...
Denial is one of the most powerful and persistent obstacles to addiction recovery. For many people, it can be the primary reason they avoid or delay getting help, even when their substance use clearly harms their health, relationships and quality of life. Recognizing Denial Denial is a defense mechanism that protects...
Marijuana has a reputation for being a relatively harmless substance – especially as its use becomes more socially accepted and legally accessible. But the truth is that cannabis is a psychoactive drug that can cause physical and psychological dependence, especially when used regularly and in high doses. You may be...
