Jenny Metz 
Marijuana is being explored as a treatment for opioid addiction, potentially reducing cravings and pain without the addictive properties of opioids. However, it can cause cognitive impairment and the risk of marijuana dependence. Ethical concerns about its long-term effects on recovery exist. Responsible use requires self-management, family support, and community resources to reduce stigma and … Read more
Nicotine pouches are smokeless products that deliver nicotine through the mouth’s lining, stimulating dopamine release to manage dependency. While they reduce smoking risks, they may cause side effects like mouth irritation and headaches. Ethical concerns revolve around their role in harm reduction versus addiction. Self-management strategies include gradual nicotine reduction and craving control, while family … Read more
Stigma surrounding medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in recovery programs can hinder progress by fostering judgment and misconceptions. This stigma arises from a lack of understanding about MAT’s role in addiction recovery. Alleviating it involves self-management strategies that promote MAT acceptance, family support to create a non-judgmental environment, and community resources that educate and advocate for MAT … Read more
Varenicline (Chantix) is a prescription medication that helps individuals quit smoking by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It works by affecting nicotine receptors in the brain, making smoking less rewarding. While effective, varenicline can cause side effects like nausea, vivid dreams, and mood changes. Its advantages include higher success rates in quitting smoking, but potential … Read more
Opioids and opiates are both substances that bind to opioid receptors in the brain, but while opiates are naturally derived from the opium poppy (e.g., morphine), opioids also include synthetic drugs like fentanyl. Both carry a high potential for addiction, as they trigger the release of dopamine, leading to physical dependence. Managing addiction requires effective … Read more
Resentment during sobriety is a common emotional challenge, often stemming from past anger, trauma, or unmet expectations. It can hinder recovery if not addressed. Treatment includes self-management strategies like mindfulness, cognitive restructuring, and family support through open communication and healthy boundaries. Community resources such as support groups, therapy, and peer mentorship offer additional guidance and … Read more
Nicotine is highly addictive due to its ability to rapidly release dopamine in the brain, reinforcing repeated use. This leads to physical dependence, making quitting challenging due to cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Nicotine cessation therapies, like patches, gum, and lozenges, provide controlled doses of nicotine to ease withdrawal and cravings. These therapies help reduce dependence … Read more
Addictive drugs alter the brain’s reward system, leading to compulsive use, tolerance, and withdrawal. In contrast, antidepressants don’t cause euphoria or cravings but may lead to physical dependence, requiring gradual tapering to avoid withdrawal. However, antidepressants are not considered addictive. How Drugs Become Addictive: The Science Behind Dependency Addiction is a complex condition that develops … Read more
Genetic-based therapy for addiction personalizes treatment by analyzing an individual’s genetic makeup, aiming to improve effectiveness through tailored interventions like pharmacogenomics. Driven by research on genetic influences in addiction, this approach offers potential benefits but also raises ethical concerns, privacy risks, and the challenge of overemphasizing genetics over psychological and social factors. While promising, its … Read more
Seasonal mental health conditions can lead to substance abuse as individuals seek relief from depression or anxiety. Self-care, family support, and community resources with healthy routines, therapy, and emotional stability from loved ones can help while mental health services and support groups provide essential guidance. Together, these strategies reduce substance use and promote well-being during … Read more