Methadone is a well-established, evidence-based medication for treating opioid use disorder (OUD), helping reduce opioid cravings, relieve withdrawal symptoms, and lower the risk of overdose and death. In the United States, however, methadone for OUD is generally dispensed through federally certified Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs), which can limit access for individuals living in rural areas … Read more
Severe depression is a serious mental health condition that affects a person’s thoughts, emotions, behaviors, physical health, and ability to function in daily life. Unlike temporary feelings of sadness or disappointment, severe depression is persistent and can interfere with work, school, relationships, and self-care. In some individuals, depression may be accompanied by suicidality, which includes … Read more
Compulsive gambling, also known as gambling disorder, is a behavioral addiction in which individuals continue to gamble despite experiencing significant financial, emotional, relationship, and occupational consequences. Many people with a gambling disorder also have a dual diagnosis, meaning they are living with both a gambling addiction and a co-occurring mental health condition, such as depression, … Read more
Art therapy is an evidence-based, complementary treatment that uses creative expression to support individuals living with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. Guided by a credentialed art therapist, individuals use activities such as drawing, painting, sculpting, collage, and other forms of visual art to express emotions, process difficult experiences, and develop healthier coping skills. … Read more
Nicotine dependency remains one of the leading preventable causes of disease, disability, and premature death worldwide. Whether delivered through traditional cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, or electronic nicotine products, nicotine is a highly addictive substance that alters the brain’s reward system and can make quitting extremely difficult. To reduce the global burden of tobacco-related disease, the … Read more
Gambling addiction, also known as gambling disorder, is a behavioral addiction that can have devastating effects on an individual’s financial stability, emotional well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. Many people who struggle with gambling experience feelings of shame, isolation, anxiety, and hopelessness, making it difficult to seek help on their own. Group therapy has … Read more
Digital technology has become an essential part of modern life, influencing how people communicate, learn, work, shop, and build relationships. Smartphones, social media, online gaming, streaming services, and digital platforms offer many benefits, but they have also raised concerns about excessive and compulsive technology use. The concept of the social embedding of digital addiction recognizes … Read more
Regular exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, offering numerous benefits for physical fitness, mental health, and overall well-being. It can improve cardiovascular health, build strength, reduce stress, enhance mood, and help prevent many chronic illnesses. However, like any behavior, exercise can become harmful when it becomes excessive, compulsive, or continues despite injury, … Read more
Interest in using magic mushrooms, which contain the psychedelic compound psilocybin, as a potential treatment for cocaine addiction has increased as researchers search for new approaches to treating substance use disorders. Cocaine use disorder remains challenging to treat, and there are currently no FDA-approved medications specifically indicated for this condition. Early clinical studies suggest that … Read more
The concept of food addiction continues to generate discussion among researchers because eating behaviors are influenced by a complex interaction of nutrition, brain chemistry, emotions, and environmental factors. Although scientists are still investigating whether highly processed foods trigger addiction-like responses similar to substances such as nicotine or alcohol, many agree that some individuals experience powerful … Read more