Jenny Metz 
Alcohol and anxiety are deeply connected: while alcohol may briefly ease anxious feelings, it ultimately worsens anxiety and dependence, creating a harmful cycle. Treating both together requires medications, therapy, lifestyle changes, and community support. Yet cultural attitudes and stigma shape how people seek help—some normalize alcohol use while dismissing anxiety, others attach shame to both. … Read more
Impulse control problems and attention deficits play a major role in addiction, as both are tied to dopamine pathways that regulate motivation and reward. When these systems are off balance, people may act on urges quickly or struggle to focus, making them more vulnerable to substance use. Medication can help improve attention and reduce impulsivity, … Read more
Polydrug use—the mixing of substances like opioids, alcohol, or stimulants—greatly increases the risk of overdose and addiction. Governments respond with interventions such as harm reduction programs, monitoring systems, and treatment expansion, but people may still turn to polydrug use for relief, stronger effects, or due to tolerance and availability. Preventing escalation requires self-management skills, supportive … Read more
Drug rehab centers play a vital role in supporting addiction recovery by combining medical supervision, therapy, and relapse prevention strategies. These services help individuals manage cravings, develop healthier coping skills, and build a structured path toward sobriety. The benefits can be life-changing, but challenges remain, including the high cost of treatment, disruption of work and … Read more
Self-compassion and self-efficacy are two key psychological factors that play an important role in predicting and preventing relapse in addiction recovery. Self-compassion helps individuals manage guilt and shame after setbacks, while self-efficacy strengthens confidence in their ability to stay sober and cope with challenges. These qualities can be reinforced through self-management strategies such as positive … Read more
7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) is a potent kratom alkaloid with opioid-like effects, including strong analgesia, sedation, and euphoria. Its increasing availability in concentrated forms has raised overdose concerns. Like other opioids, 7-OH can cause respiratory depression and dependence, and treatment involves naloxone, supportive care, and monitoring, with long-term addiction management as needed. 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) (Kratom): Potency, Risks, … Read more
Phone addiction, or smartphone dependency, is a growing issue in daily life. Many people feel the need to constantly check messages, scroll social media, or use apps, even when it disrupts work, school, or relationships. Over time, this can harm focus, sleep, and mental health. Prevention includes setting screen-time limits, practicing mindful use, and making … Read more
Vaping addiction is a growing concern among youth, fueled by appealing flavors, sleek devices, and social media marketing. Unlike cigarettes, vaping can deliver higher nicotine doses discreetly, increasing dependence while seeming safer. To combat this, the U.S. and other countries have enacted age limits, flavor bans, ad restrictions, and school-based prevention programs, but youth remain … Read more
Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) in older adults is a growing concern, driven by chronic pain, multiple prescriptions, age-related changes, and social isolation. Prevention requires a comprehensive approach: self-management through safe medication use, health check-ups, and non-opioid pain care; family support with open communication, prescription monitoring, and healthy routines; and community resources like wellness programs, caregiver … Read more
The treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD) is rapidly evolving to address the rise of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid far more potent than heroin or prescription painkillers. New strategies—such as low-dose buprenorphine, expanded methadone access, and digital or community-based interventions—have improved survival and treatment retention. Yet challenges remain, including withdrawal, sedation, or potential misuse, along … Read more